<p>The Function Suite, while forming part of the building at Ardrossan Indoor Bowling Club is utilised in a totally separate manner. The Function Suite provides a Cafe, which provides meals to eat in or take away. The local Bridge, Whist, Fishing Clubs and British Legion Branch as well as the Visibly Impaired Group use it as their base. It is also used by the community for Birthdays, Weddings, Funerals etc</p>

<p>We would like to continue to offer Tai-Chi classes to people living with Dementia in our local Community. Funding a qualified Tai-Chi Instructor and hiring an appropriate Hall, to undertake the classes for the local Community. Research Studies showed that in people with mild cognitive impairment Tai-Chi slowed the progression to Dementia more than other types of exercise and improved cognitive function in a comparable fashion to other types of exercise or cognitive training. Tai-chi is a safe effective activity that improves physical balance and emotional wellbeing in older adults.</p>

<p style="margin-bottom:11px"><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="line-height:107%"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">We would like to use this funding to purchase a suitable sized Polly tunnel, to erect within our garden, for our service users and the community to reap the benefits.&nbsp;There is limited ground in the Garnock Valley for this and we feel that this is something that we could offer. </span></span></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px"><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="line-height:107%"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">&nbsp;Costings for this would include &ndash; The Polly tunnel and groundwork.&nbsp;</span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin-bottom:11px"><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="line-height:107%"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">After discussions with a number of individuals &amp; organisations, we are seeking funding support to host&nbsp;a heartwarming and inclusive festive event aimed at individuals in recovery from addiction, offering them a safe and joyful space to celebrate Christmas and New Year without the influence of alcohol or drugs. For many in recovery, the holiday season can be a challenging and isolating time, often spent alone. Our event aims to change that narrative, bringing people together to share the spirit of the season in a supportive and nurturing environment. Through music, games, and activities that foster connection and friendship, we aspire to create lasting memories and a renewed sense of hope. This event&nbsp;will not only light up the holiday season for those who need it most but also reinforce the importance of recovery and community. With your support, we can make this festive season truly special, empowering individuals in recovery to embark on a brighter, healthier journey into the new year.</span></span></span></p>

<p style="margin-bottom:11px"><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="line-height:107%"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">An aged 50+&nbsp;&nbsp;group offering a place for people to meet,&nbsp;discover&nbsp;new interest, new friends share/learn skills while working towards an award. The group reduces social isolation, improves wellness, mental health, keeps people active.</span></span></span></p>

<p>Applying for funds to continue to offer the Healing Hearts North Ayrshire Bereavement Support Group, based at Kilwinning Library on a Friday from 12.30pm - 2.30pm (exc public holidays).</p> <p>The group was established as part of the Connecting Communities&nbsp;Project, a partnership with Cruse, Cruse Scotland and Co-op, however with funding ending in December 2023, the group are at threat of closure. A number of the group&#39;s participants are keen to transfer the group to a constituted&nbsp;group, volunteering&nbsp;for roles in the committee.&nbsp; These participants have relevant experience in these roles and have created their constitution and are in the process of opening a bank account.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Senior citizens 50 plus club, all funds raised will go towards raffles, bus trips, and general well being of club members.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin-bottom:11px"><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="line-height:107%"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif">We would like funding to purchase a new defibrillator to assist with our community resilience volunteer programme. Volunteers will learn how to use it, developing their skills and building confidence.</span></span></span></p>