Wigton-based CCL secure, the global expert in polymer banknote substrate, has awarded its first grants from its new charitable fund that benefits people and communities in Allerdale and Copeland.
Managed by Cumbria Community Foundation, the CCL Secure Fund has supported five community groups across West Cumbria.
The gym at the Oval Centre in Workington, which is run by social enterprise, Fit 4 Life, received £1,000 towards new equipment. Fit 4 Life offers a safe and friendly environment for people with chronic health conditions and is a low-cost alternative to mainstream fitness centres.
Dougie Pomfret, Manager at Fit 4 Life said: “We have been able to purchase two new exercise bikes with the grant, which will make our clients experience with us even better than it was before.
“We have lots of sessions on offer including cardiac, stroke and pulmonary rehabilitation, over 50’s sessions and sessions for general public. People with a range of health conditions such as high blood pressure, weight problems, diabetes, heart disease and more can join, and our team of specialist instructors are there to guide people back to fitness.”
Wigton Youth Station received £1,273, which contributed to keeping the centre open for the next year. It has been established for 21 years and provides a safe, social space for local youngsters in the area twice a week. Angela Bicknell, Centre Manager, said: “We’ve been very lucky to receive such support and I’m happy to say the Foundation has been a long-term supporter of the work we do.
“On average, we have 25-30 young people through the doors on any one night, with over 70 members in total. Wigton Youth Station is well equipped and experienced in addressing and working alongside our young people, their families and their communities. We work on prevention and early intervention to provide information and support, to change negative attitudes and their long-term prospects.”
Other organisations to benefit include Wigton Baths Trust and 3rd Wigton Sea Scout Group, both receiving £1,000 each and North Allerdale Development Trust received £2,000.
Mark Lancaster, HR Manager-EMEAC, said: “The community is essential to the success of the CCL Secure plant and we are delighted to have confirmed our first grants from the CCL Secure Community fund. The whole team at CCL Secure are looking forward to making a sustainable impact across Cumbria over the months and years to come.”
Annalee Holliday, Grants Officer at Cumbria Community Foundation said: “This is an exciting time for us to be working with Mark and the CCL Team, who like many Cumbrian businesses are committed to finding ways to help their community. These organisations play a big part in holding communities together especially during times when local services are under pressure and struggling to meet local needs.”
For more information about the fund or to apply, visit www.cumbriafoundation.org/fund/ccl-secure-fund or call the grants team at Cumbria Community Foundation on 01900 825760.
