Community Choices exhibition in February 2018 Community groups in Coupar Angus and Bendochy want you to vote for them to receive a share of £20,000. To help you decide, an exhibition of entries will be held at Coupar Angus Town Hall on Saturday 16th February from 10am to 2pm.
The short list of 21 projects, described at the foot of this article, had to show they met three requirements:
1. Help alleviate isolation and get people involved
2. Benefit mental and physical wellbeing
3. Increase community groups ie new start ups
Additionally, they should involve young people as much as possible.
From the week beginning 17 February, voting packs will be issued to all households in the Town (and the area covered by Coupar Angus and Bendochy Community Council). Every household will receive a pack. In addition voting packs will be provided to the children from Coupar Angus attending Blairgowrie High, Collace, Kettins, Burrleton and, of course, Coupar Angus Primary Schools.
There will be clear voting instructions, plus information on how to vote if you are housebound. Ballot boxes will be placed in the following locations - large SCOTMID, Bits n' Bobs, High Street Community Store, Town Hall and the Health Centre.
Voting closes on Thursday 7th March at noon after which time the votes will be collected and counted.
It is anticipated that the results will be announced on Tuesday 12 March - all applicants will be notified of the outcome.
We are hoping to hold a Presentation Night on 22 March to present the cheques.
The voting is being done under strict guidelines and will follow the Scottish Voting System - ie votes cast in order of preference 1, 2, 3, 4.
Pam Mulgrew of Coupar Angus Community Choices Fund said today "It will be very interesting for me to see how the voting goes and also if there are any differences in what school pupils vote for compared to adults."
ABOUT THE PROJECTS
NEW AGE KURLERS – Are seeking £1827 to help transport infirm members to the hall, hall hire, equipment and an outing for members at Christmas. The club attracts over 40 people per week (from all backgrounds) of all ages and is ideal for able and disabled people (physically disabled and those with dementia). It allows respite for carers and reduces isolation as well as providing stimulation. It is like curling but is carried out indoors using ball bearings to roll the stones. They would like to run a session where young people could come and play the game as well as help the “older members” with technology.
SENIORS’ OUTINGS – Are seeking £1400 to allow them to hire the Freedom coach and take those people who are normally housebound for outings (14 trips per year). This reduces isolation in a vulnerable group and increases their mental well being. It is a totally inclusive project which means those on limited income can attend. They would like to work as well with local young people which would be a benefit to old and young alike.
BIG SWITCH ON - Are seeking £2000 to run a Christmas Night where the whole town can come together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. They are looking to fund stage hire, PA system, 3 bands, lighting and an appearance fee for Santa. It is anticipated there would be the involvement of local Primary School children and will be an opportunity to bring families together.
FOOD & GROWING PROJECT - Are seeking £2000 to provide/install two waterless/composting toilets in the Community Garden. This garden is open to all ages and is a popular local place for events and workshops involving all sectors of the community. People often spend a lot of time at the two locations and Toilets would not only benefit them, but would also open up the Gardens for other local groups to host events as well and encourage more people to become involved. Having toilets would also be of benefit to the elderly, very young and less able as they would not have to worry about taking a break. Those working in the garden benefit from being outdoors which increases physical and mental wellbeing.
COUPAR ANGUS YOUTH ACTIVITIES GROUP - Are seeking £1900 to form an Outdoor Education Programme for 10 young people aged 8-14 years. The money will be used to pay staff costs, guide, food, equipment and transport. The Programme will include team building, orienteering, camping trips, woodland education etc. This will aid development and improve social skills, healthy living and practical skills in a number of areas, as well as promoting respect for the environment. Programmes such as this provide psychological benefits such as reducing stress, improving confidence and self esteem.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS – Are seeking £2000 to provide new Christmas lights for the town. The current lights are over 20 years old and it is felt that new public lights for the Festive Season would provide the town with the “feel good factor” and increase community spirit. New lights will benefit all in the town. It is hoped that, subject to funding, this event could be tied in with a switching on event whereby the whole community could be involved. They are seeking to buy two large overhead lights to go across the streets. The lighting is carried out by volunteers and this also gives people a sense of pride in their community.
THURSDAY FRIENDS – Are seeking £1916 to pay for entertainment for the monthly tea parties and also the rent of the Town Hall; as well as an annual May trip and High Tea and Lunch at Christmas. This group attracts many people to its meetings and focuses on the elderly and housebound. Their monthly tea parties allow those normally isolated to enjoy a sing-along. The group is totally inclusive to all as it is free and allows those normally stuck at home to get out; this also allows any concerns re wellbeing etc to be highlighted. Young people are welcome at the group to interact with the older people and to perform songs, dances etc.
RESTART PROJECT – Are seeking £920 to provide and maintain a heated storage cabinet for the AED (Defibrillator) which is situated in the town. Everyone in town will benefit from having an AED as it can take up to 30 minutes for an ambulance to reach Coupar Angus. Ongoing training in CPR and using the AED will ensure as many people in town know how to use it, this includes school pupils. The heated cabinet allows the AED to be stored safely and securely and ready for use.
YARNSTORMERS - Are seeking £700 for the purchase of 4 weaving looms and associated material. This informal group provides companionship to all ages and allows people to learn the skills of fibre craft i.e. knitting, crochet etc. All are welcome and mentoring is free. Sharing skills encourages interaction within the community and a break from the high tech world. Weaving classes will be delivered to all, including school pupils and will be sited in the new Community Hub.
COMMUNITY HUB – Are seeking £1753 for IT equipment for the new Community Hub. Local groups and individuals will use the Hub and this will provide access to IT equipment as well as allowing events and local information to be publicised through the use of said IT. The equipment will be a PC, Laser Printer and Design software. It is felt that the IT equipment can bring young and old together and will also be of use in developing younger peoples’ participation in the Hub.
ABBEY YOUTH GROUPS – Are seeking £1000 to buy protective floor coverings to be used during craft activities and also to provide an outing for local children to an outdoor activity centre. The Groups cater for children from P1 to S1 and are all interactive with activities like storytelling, crafts, games etc which promote companionship and togetherness, reducing isolation. The group is all inclusive with all backgrounds welcome.
GROWING & GARDENING GROUP – Are seeking £1990 for a mobile Pizza Business. This will see the purchase of two pizza ovens as well as associated equipment, a pizza herb garden and training in pizza dough making. This new Social Enterprise will benefit all in the Community and will be a facility which can be hired out to local community groups. The money raised from this will go back into the project allowing for free pizza events to be held which will allow them to be inclusive. The herb garden will also involve local children. This project is designed to benefit all in the community and to be used by everyone regardless of background, finances etc. It will provide training for people as well and promote a sense of pride in the Community.
COUPAR ANGUS AMATEUR FOOTBALL CLUB – Are seeking £2000 for the purchase of training kit, weekly and annual running costs (including training), laundry, referee, lining of pitch and also equipment. The Club have joined the U-19 league this season for the first time and have a squad of 23 players. They welcome new faces (playing or supporting) and enjoy a high level of support from the Town. Sport provides excellent physical and mental benefits and the Club is a way to meet new people and participate in social events i.e. quiz nights etc. They would like to have taster sessions for all ages and abilities and encourage people to get involved with them.
STRATHMORE MENS’ SHED – Are seeking £1996 to provide tools and computer equipment. The Shed (which also welcomes women) promotes social interaction within the community supporting those from all walks of life and abilities. They promote men’s health and combat loneliness and provide a sense of purpose. They are encouraging men of all ages to attend and interact with their peers. They hold family participation events i.e. BBQ’s, quiz nights etc and are totally inclusive welcoming those who may suffer financial hardship. They want a band saw, desktop computer, cordless drill and sander.
CYCLING HUB – Are seeking £2000 to fund the free Cycling Festival in June 2019. This highly popular event attracts people of all ages and is in its 6th year. The Festival inspires people to get active and shows stunt teams, electric bikes, free bike repairs and a mountain bike race. It allows people to volunteer and gain work experience as well as showcasing projects that they can get involved in i.e. marshalling, cycle leaders, mechanics etc. Due to being free the Festival is all inclusive and allows everyone the chance to try a new hobby. Cycling promotes a sense of well being.
COUPAR ANGUS PIPE BAND – Are seeking £2000 to purchase new equipment to allow pupils to participate in a structured tutoring programme to develop skills enabling them to play in the band. The project is primarily focussed at Primary age children. It is totally inclusive and at present has 16 children looking to learn. This programme will allow children to gain a new skill and increase their confidence. It is hoped that this programme will ultimately lead to the formation of a Juvenile Pipe band for the town.
CRICHTON LANG COURT RESIDENTS – Are seeking £288 to fund plants, planters, paint, hanging baskets, compost and wall brackets for their courtyard. This Group has previously won awards for their lovely garden and the Courtyard provides a place for residents to meet and they have held BBQ’s there and children visiting can play on the Astroturf. The garden reduces isolation and increases the health of those residents who participate (including growing your own vegetables) and involves young people through seed planting. Primary School children visit to collect peas and strawberries and are encouraged to take part in gardening projects.
HEALTH & FITNESS GROUP - Are seeking £500 for buy hula-hoops, weights, bands etc. for their weekly exercise class which takes place in the Town Hall. The class has a strong group of local people who provide a class whereby social interaction and new friendships are encouraged. As well as keeping fit they encourage members of all ages and abilities. Tutoring is provided in the class and they welcome people of all abilities as it can be adapted to suit all levels.
COUPAR ANGUS NURSERY SCHOOL – Are seeking £500 for the purchase of new, high quality toys (playhouse, sand and water table, activity gym and items for role play). The Nursery is open to children from ages 2-5 and of all social backgrounds. The toys allow for education in a stimulating place allowing the children to develop their imaginations. The Nursery allows children to mix with others and build friendships.
PRIDE OF PLACE – Are seeking £1940 for a public art project at the skate park. The money will be used to pay for an Art/Youth Worker and for materials plus a skate jam to re-launch the Park. The skate park has been popular with children and young people but has suffered neglect recently. This money will be used to breathe new life and will encourage it to be used to its maximum again. It will promote intergenerational activity and allow young people to build stronger relationships with groups in the town. Hopefully more families will be encouraged to use the skate park.
COUPAR ANGUS TODDLER GROUP – Are seeking £1300 to allow the Group to run for the next six months. The Group caters for children from birth to school age. It is a welcoming place for children and their carers (parents, grand-parents, aunts, cousins, childminders etc). In the holidays older siblings are encouraged to join in the fun. The group promotes companionship among carers as well as allowing the children to participate in fun, messy activities they may not get to do at home. They visit Balhousie Care Home where the residents are always pleased to see them, as well as having trips to see Santa and celebrate the different holidays throughout the year. The Group is completely inclusional.
The short list of 21 projects, described at the foot of this article, had to show they met three requirements:
1. Help alleviate isolation and get people involved
2. Benefit mental and physical wellbeing
3. Increase community groups ie new start ups
Additionally, they should involve young people as much as possible.
From the week beginning 17 February, voting packs will be issued to all households in the Town (and the area covered by Coupar Angus and Bendochy Community Council). Every household will receive a pack. In addition voting packs will be provided to the children from Coupar Angus attending Blairgowrie High, Collace, Kettins, Burrleton and, of course, Coupar Angus Primary Schools.
There will be clear voting instructions, plus information on how to vote if you are housebound. Ballot boxes will be placed in the following locations - large SCOTMID, Bits n' Bobs, High Street Community Store, Town Hall and the Health Centre.
Voting closes on Thursday 7th March at noon after which time the votes will be collected and counted.
It is anticipated that the results will be announced on Tuesday 12 March - all applicants will be notified of the outcome.
We are hoping to hold a Presentation Night on 22 March to present the cheques.
The voting is being done under strict guidelines and will follow the Scottish Voting System - ie votes cast in order of preference 1, 2, 3, 4.
Pam Mulgrew of Coupar Angus Community Choices Fund said today "It will be very interesting for me to see how the voting goes and also if there are any differences in what school pupils vote for compared to adults."
ABOUT THE PROJECTS
NEW AGE KURLERS – Are seeking £1827 to help transport infirm members to the hall, hall hire, equipment and an outing for members at Christmas. The club attracts over 40 people per week (from all backgrounds) of all ages and is ideal for able and disabled people (physically disabled and those with dementia). It allows respite for carers and reduces isolation as well as providing stimulation. It is like curling but is carried out indoors using ball bearings to roll the stones. They would like to run a session where young people could come and play the game as well as help the “older members” with technology.
SENIORS’ OUTINGS – Are seeking £1400 to allow them to hire the Freedom coach and take those people who are normally housebound for outings (14 trips per year). This reduces isolation in a vulnerable group and increases their mental well being. It is a totally inclusive project which means those on limited income can attend. They would like to work as well with local young people which would be a benefit to old and young alike.
BIG SWITCH ON - Are seeking £2000 to run a Christmas Night where the whole town can come together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. They are looking to fund stage hire, PA system, 3 bands, lighting and an appearance fee for Santa. It is anticipated there would be the involvement of local Primary School children and will be an opportunity to bring families together.
FOOD & GROWING PROJECT - Are seeking £2000 to provide/install two waterless/composting toilets in the Community Garden. This garden is open to all ages and is a popular local place for events and workshops involving all sectors of the community. People often spend a lot of time at the two locations and Toilets would not only benefit them, but would also open up the Gardens for other local groups to host events as well and encourage more people to become involved. Having toilets would also be of benefit to the elderly, very young and less able as they would not have to worry about taking a break. Those working in the garden benefit from being outdoors which increases physical and mental wellbeing.
COUPAR ANGUS YOUTH ACTIVITIES GROUP - Are seeking £1900 to form an Outdoor Education Programme for 10 young people aged 8-14 years. The money will be used to pay staff costs, guide, food, equipment and transport. The Programme will include team building, orienteering, camping trips, woodland education etc. This will aid development and improve social skills, healthy living and practical skills in a number of areas, as well as promoting respect for the environment. Programmes such as this provide psychological benefits such as reducing stress, improving confidence and self esteem.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS – Are seeking £2000 to provide new Christmas lights for the town. The current lights are over 20 years old and it is felt that new public lights for the Festive Season would provide the town with the “feel good factor” and increase community spirit. New lights will benefit all in the town. It is hoped that, subject to funding, this event could be tied in with a switching on event whereby the whole community could be involved. They are seeking to buy two large overhead lights to go across the streets. The lighting is carried out by volunteers and this also gives people a sense of pride in their community.
THURSDAY FRIENDS – Are seeking £1916 to pay for entertainment for the monthly tea parties and also the rent of the Town Hall; as well as an annual May trip and High Tea and Lunch at Christmas. This group attracts many people to its meetings and focuses on the elderly and housebound. Their monthly tea parties allow those normally isolated to enjoy a sing-along. The group is totally inclusive to all as it is free and allows those normally stuck at home to get out; this also allows any concerns re wellbeing etc to be highlighted. Young people are welcome at the group to interact with the older people and to perform songs, dances etc.
RESTART PROJECT – Are seeking £920 to provide and maintain a heated storage cabinet for the AED (Defibrillator) which is situated in the town. Everyone in town will benefit from having an AED as it can take up to 30 minutes for an ambulance to reach Coupar Angus. Ongoing training in CPR and using the AED will ensure as many people in town know how to use it, this includes school pupils. The heated cabinet allows the AED to be stored safely and securely and ready for use.
YARNSTORMERS - Are seeking £700 for the purchase of 4 weaving looms and associated material. This informal group provides companionship to all ages and allows people to learn the skills of fibre craft i.e. knitting, crochet etc. All are welcome and mentoring is free. Sharing skills encourages interaction within the community and a break from the high tech world. Weaving classes will be delivered to all, including school pupils and will be sited in the new Community Hub.
COMMUNITY HUB – Are seeking £1753 for IT equipment for the new Community Hub. Local groups and individuals will use the Hub and this will provide access to IT equipment as well as allowing events and local information to be publicised through the use of said IT. The equipment will be a PC, Laser Printer and Design software. It is felt that the IT equipment can bring young and old together and will also be of use in developing younger peoples’ participation in the Hub.
ABBEY YOUTH GROUPS – Are seeking £1000 to buy protective floor coverings to be used during craft activities and also to provide an outing for local children to an outdoor activity centre. The Groups cater for children from P1 to S1 and are all interactive with activities like storytelling, crafts, games etc which promote companionship and togetherness, reducing isolation. The group is all inclusive with all backgrounds welcome.
GROWING & GARDENING GROUP – Are seeking £1990 for a mobile Pizza Business. This will see the purchase of two pizza ovens as well as associated equipment, a pizza herb garden and training in pizza dough making. This new Social Enterprise will benefit all in the Community and will be a facility which can be hired out to local community groups. The money raised from this will go back into the project allowing for free pizza events to be held which will allow them to be inclusive. The herb garden will also involve local children. This project is designed to benefit all in the community and to be used by everyone regardless of background, finances etc. It will provide training for people as well and promote a sense of pride in the Community.
COUPAR ANGUS AMATEUR FOOTBALL CLUB – Are seeking £2000 for the purchase of training kit, weekly and annual running costs (including training), laundry, referee, lining of pitch and also equipment. The Club have joined the U-19 league this season for the first time and have a squad of 23 players. They welcome new faces (playing or supporting) and enjoy a high level of support from the Town. Sport provides excellent physical and mental benefits and the Club is a way to meet new people and participate in social events i.e. quiz nights etc. They would like to have taster sessions for all ages and abilities and encourage people to get involved with them.
STRATHMORE MENS’ SHED – Are seeking £1996 to provide tools and computer equipment. The Shed (which also welcomes women) promotes social interaction within the community supporting those from all walks of life and abilities. They promote men’s health and combat loneliness and provide a sense of purpose. They are encouraging men of all ages to attend and interact with their peers. They hold family participation events i.e. BBQ’s, quiz nights etc and are totally inclusive welcoming those who may suffer financial hardship. They want a band saw, desktop computer, cordless drill and sander.
CYCLING HUB – Are seeking £2000 to fund the free Cycling Festival in June 2019. This highly popular event attracts people of all ages and is in its 6th year. The Festival inspires people to get active and shows stunt teams, electric bikes, free bike repairs and a mountain bike race. It allows people to volunteer and gain work experience as well as showcasing projects that they can get involved in i.e. marshalling, cycle leaders, mechanics etc. Due to being free the Festival is all inclusive and allows everyone the chance to try a new hobby. Cycling promotes a sense of well being.
COUPAR ANGUS PIPE BAND – Are seeking £2000 to purchase new equipment to allow pupils to participate in a structured tutoring programme to develop skills enabling them to play in the band. The project is primarily focussed at Primary age children. It is totally inclusive and at present has 16 children looking to learn. This programme will allow children to gain a new skill and increase their confidence. It is hoped that this programme will ultimately lead to the formation of a Juvenile Pipe band for the town.
CRICHTON LANG COURT RESIDENTS – Are seeking £288 to fund plants, planters, paint, hanging baskets, compost and wall brackets for their courtyard. This Group has previously won awards for their lovely garden and the Courtyard provides a place for residents to meet and they have held BBQ’s there and children visiting can play on the Astroturf. The garden reduces isolation and increases the health of those residents who participate (including growing your own vegetables) and involves young people through seed planting. Primary School children visit to collect peas and strawberries and are encouraged to take part in gardening projects.
HEALTH & FITNESS GROUP - Are seeking £500 for buy hula-hoops, weights, bands etc. for their weekly exercise class which takes place in the Town Hall. The class has a strong group of local people who provide a class whereby social interaction and new friendships are encouraged. As well as keeping fit they encourage members of all ages and abilities. Tutoring is provided in the class and they welcome people of all abilities as it can be adapted to suit all levels.
COUPAR ANGUS NURSERY SCHOOL – Are seeking £500 for the purchase of new, high quality toys (playhouse, sand and water table, activity gym and items for role play). The Nursery is open to children from ages 2-5 and of all social backgrounds. The toys allow for education in a stimulating place allowing the children to develop their imaginations. The Nursery allows children to mix with others and build friendships.
PRIDE OF PLACE – Are seeking £1940 for a public art project at the skate park. The money will be used to pay for an Art/Youth Worker and for materials plus a skate jam to re-launch the Park. The skate park has been popular with children and young people but has suffered neglect recently. This money will be used to breathe new life and will encourage it to be used to its maximum again. It will promote intergenerational activity and allow young people to build stronger relationships with groups in the town. Hopefully more families will be encouraged to use the skate park.
COUPAR ANGUS TODDLER GROUP – Are seeking £1300 to allow the Group to run for the next six months. The Group caters for children from birth to school age. It is a welcoming place for children and their carers (parents, grand-parents, aunts, cousins, childminders etc). In the holidays older siblings are encouraged to join in the fun. The group promotes companionship among carers as well as allowing the children to participate in fun, messy activities they may not get to do at home. They visit Balhousie Care Home where the residents are always pleased to see them, as well as having trips to see Santa and celebrate the different holidays throughout the year. The Group is completely inclusional.
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