Irvine Pipe Band would like to get new equipment for training and uniforms for members of the band who are not able to afford their own equipment. The project will link people up from all walks of life including New Scots as well as others from across North Ayrshire who share a passion for Scottish music. The band provides an opportunity for people to boost their mental health and wellbeing by making new friends and taking up an instrument completely free of charge.

Irvine over 50’s Friendship Group meets on Tuesday afternoons in Vennel Gardens Engagement Hub throughout the year to allow older people to connect with others and enjoy a whole range of engaging and fun activities. The group aims to reduce social isolation and provide a safe and welcoming space where older people feel included and valued. Our group encourages group members to meet new people, enjoy activities in the good company of others.

Irvine Table Tennis Club was founded in 2018 and is based at the Portal, Irvine. Our club which is affiliated to TT Scotland, runs weekly, every Tuesday where we have 12-15 tables set up for use. Irvine TTC is a community club for everyone in Irvine town centre, where our volunteers and coaches have created a safe space for all to enjoy playing table tennis regardless of age, ability and background.

Redburn Bingo Group run a weekly bingo session on Thursday afternoons in Redburn Community Hub. This activity provides a regular fun and friendly social event in a safe and familiar social setting. The bingo sessions help to connect community members and reduce social isolation and loneliness. Members of the local community come along to the bingo sessions each week to have fun, meet new people and have a chat. The bingo is very popular and well attended.

Ayrshire Fire Basketball club is a recreational Basketball Club based in Ayrshire with sessions in Irvine, Kilwinning and Kilmarnock. The sessions are open for ages over 18 and for all levels of ability. The club plays an important role in helping the players confidence, skills and build on social connections. The club has a positive impact on the players mental health and wellbeing.

Our project is a continuation of a long-term development plan to empower girls through rugby by developing their skills, confidence, leadership, and sense of belonging. We aim to support gender equality at Irvine Rugby Club by providing female-designed rugby kits for our growing number of girls playing the sport, offering female-led coaching, and hosting an all-female rugby festival.