This significant contribution is part of the Trust’s biannual giving programme, aimed at supporting a diverse range of organisations dedicated to making a difference in their communities across the country. From grassroots initiatives to nationwide efforts, the Trust’s donations will help tackle pressing issues such as poverty, homelessness, mental health and youth support. The winter tranche of funding comes at a crucial time, as many charities face increased demand for their services during the holiday season.

Trust Chairman James Barrack, shared his thoughts:

“We are incredibly proud to support such a wide range of worthwhile causes across Scotland, through the Barrack Charitable Trust. We believe in giving back to the communities where we live and work and this is especially meaningful as we approach the festive season. These charities provide essential support to so many and it is an honour to play a part in their vital work.”

Spotlight on the Charities

The 23 charities supported in this tranche represent the diversity and resilience of Scotland’s charitable sector. Below, seven of the beneficiaries share their appreciation and outline how the funding will help their efforts:

The Denis Law Legacy Trust in Aberdeen received a £5,000 donation, to help fund the purchase of a new mobile sports arena. The charity delivers a number of free to access programmes and positive destination activities for young people in Aberdeen.

Mark Williams, Chief Operating Officer of the Denis Law Legacy Trust said: “We are delighted to receive a grant of £5,000 from the Barrack Charitable Trust, contributing to the purchase of a new mobile arena. Thanks to their generous support, the arena will help us deliver our range of free to access activities directly into the hearts of disadvantaged communities that need it most. I am incredibly grateful to the Barrack Charitable Trust and with their support, we can continue to empower more young people to thrive.”

Disabled Persons Housing Service (Aberdeen) received £1,500 to help support the ‘No Place Like Home’ Project. The charity provides housing options advice and information to disabled people, their families and carers. The ‘No Place Like Home’ project is specifically for disabled people who are aged over 65 and who are seeking housing options advice.

Shirley Finlayson, Manager, Disabled Persons Housing Service Aberdeen said: “We are extremely grateful to receive this generous funding from the Trust and on behalf of the staff, volunteers and committee of DPHS Aberdeen, I would like to thank the Trustees for the award. The funding will help us greatly in assisting disabled people aged over 65 in the community who are struggling to access housing options advice and are seeking solutions to their housing needs. Many of our disabled clients have complex needs or are in hospital where we visit them to provide our advice service and we can help them access housing waiting lists or advise on other housing options.”

Forfar & District Men’s Shed, received £4,500 to help purchase and install an insulated motorised roll up door, to enable the workshop to be used year round. The charity enhances men’s well-being by providing social, creative and recreational activities. It supports local schools, dementia groups and community projects, funded by grants and local partnerships.

Jim Van Nice, Treasurer of Forfar & District Men’s Shed said: “We are proud to add the Barrack Charitable Trust to our list of contributors.  With their generous grant of £4,500 we are able to replace our existing old and heavy sliding door to the workshop with a new motorised insulated roll up door. This will provide ease of operation, provide added security and prevent the loss of heat during these cold winter months.  Many thanks from the members of Forfar & District Men’s Shed.”

Wester Hailes Youth Action, in Edinburgh has received a £4,000 donation to support the provision of individual mental health support for around 30 young people over a six-month period living in areas of deprivation.

Valerie Cox, Manager of Wester Hailes Youth Agency said: “We are grateful to The Barrack Charitable Trust for their donation of £4,000 towards the delivery of 300 hours of individual support for up to 30 young people in South West/West Edinburgh over the next six months. This support will help young people address issues which may include parental & peer relationships, lack of confidence and self-esteem, bereavement & loss, trauma, stress, anxiety and low mood. Without the generosity of supporters like The Barrack Charitable Trust it would not be possible for us to deliver this vital work.

Empty Kitchen, Full Hearts, in Edinburgh received a £2,500 donation to provide meal packs. The charity aims to relieve poverty in Edinburgh by providing meals – made using surplus food – and follow-up support to people across the city, free of charge and without judgement.

Sarah Hutchison, Volunteer Coordinator at Empty Kitchen, Full Hearts said: “Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts uses surplus food to create healthy meal packs for people living in poverty across Edinburgh. Barrack Charitable Trust’s donation will support 50 people with a month of nutritious meals, free of charge. Our meal service is combined with regular well-being check-ins and referrals to further support. This donation will provide consistent nutrition and contact during what can be a very unstable, isolating time. This allows people to have the energy and headspace to tackle other challenges in their lives.”

Henry Dancer Days, in Glasgow received a £1,000 donation to help towards session costs, including materials and fees for the storytelling project for children with cancer at the Royal Hospital for Children.

Jane Nattrass, Henry Dancer’s Mum and Charity Director said: “Being able to continue our work in Glasgow Royal Children’s Hospital Paediatric Ward means so much to the children and families we serve. Our storytellers take children away from their treatment and into a world of their own imaginations. We’re grateful to the Barrack Charitable Trust for helping us make life a little easier for children with cancer.”

Erskine Veterans Charity, in Renfrewshire has received a £2,500 donation to support direct staff costs for the Transitional Supported Accommodation project, which provides accommodation, support and training for 23 vulnerable working age veterans.

Gareth Toner, Trusts and Foundations Manager at Erskine Veterans Charity said: “Erskine Veterans Charity is thrilled to have received this generous grant from The Barrack Charitable Trust and we sincerely thank the Trustees for choosing to support our Veterans for the first time. Erskine’s Transitional Supported Accommodation (ETSA) provides modern apartments, social engagement and wraparound support for up to 23 Veterans who have recently left the Forces or are facing significant challenges in civilian life. Our Transitional Support workers are dedicated to helping these veterans access mental health support, education and training with the long-term goal of completing a successful transition into full-time employment and permanent accommodation. Since opening in 2021, ETSA has supported 48 vulnerable veterans to date and we will help many more veterans in need, thanks to our kind supporters like The Barrack Charitable Trust.”

This winter’s contributions mark another milestone in the Barrack Charitable Trust’s commitment to supporting Scottish communities. With two tranches of funding awarded each year, the Trust continues to uphold its mission to empower organisations that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

The full list of charities supported this time is as follows: