17/12/09

By Andrew Holt

Communities across England are taking delivery of a package of Christmas grants of more than £7 million from the BIG Lottery Fund.

The season's celebrations are being given a big lift in 32 communities which are each receiving a slice of a total funding announcement of £7,828,298 for their work with some of the most vulnerable and socially excluded people across the country.

The funding is from BIG's Reaching Communities programme.

Sanjay Dighe, chair of BIG's England Committee, said: "We are delighted to bring the good news to 32 fantastic projects, just in time for Christmas.

"Receiving grants this month are groups offering support to people suffering from serious health conditions, those aiming to improve the natural environment on their doorsteps and scores of others. We wish them the best of luck in fulfilling their resolutions and starting their new projects in the New Year."

Among those celebrating is the Niemann-Pick Disease Group, which will use a grant of £172,601 to expand their England-wide project which aims to improve quality of life for sufferers of the condition and their families.

Niemann-Pick Disease type C (NPC) is a rare genetic disorder characterised by a range of neurological problems that become severe and limiting in the later stages.

There are currently at least 72 families in England affected by the condition, and the project will aim to support the whole family, ranging from friendly advice over the phone to home visits and liaising with other care professionals to ensure they receive the help they need.

Executive director Toni Mathieson said: "It is fantastic for us, as a small organisation, to have our work recognised and supported in this way.

"The grant will enable us to provide a much-needed Family Care and Interactive Support service to families who are affected by the rare and life-limiting condition Niemann-Pick Disease, bringing hope and encouragement to this community."

Also having their Christmas wish granted is Kingswood Nursery and Infant Centre in Wolverhampton, which will use its grant of £17,337 to create a woodland shelter and improve access through a forest school area, woodlands and orchard.

A grass matted pathway will be created leading through the woods to a specially designed shelter made of sustainable materials. This will be used as a meeting point and activity centre.

Meanwhile, work rehabilitation charity Credo in Bromley will put its £184,388 Christmas bonus to good use supporting people who have experienced mental ill health to return to work, education or training through the design, production and sale of high-quality ceramics.

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