National Lottery cash for Trowbridge Future charity

Trowbridge Future craft group will share in £430,00 in National Lottery funding

A charity that works with young people and communities is celebrating an award of more than £430,000 in National Lottery funding.

The money will help Trowbridge Future in Wiltshire to support people through the cost of living crisis.

Meg Aubrey, chief executive, said the cash also means they can push on with developing services for children and young people.

The organisation, which was set up in 1995, offers support and advice.

"We are really delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognized the valuable work of Trowbridge Future, " said Ms Aubrey.

"We are excited to be able to press on with plans for enhancing the lives of communities in our town, and supporting vulnerable people onto a positive journey of change in their lives."

The charity celebrated the funding announcement with members of its weekly craft club at its Seymour Hub where it welcomes local people to a "warm and friendly public living room".

'Built my confidence'

Pat, who was at the celebration, said: "Having moved here recently I have fitted in and made friends immediately. Everyone is so welcoming."

Mark, also part of the celebration, said: "Trowbridge Future has built my confidence and given me a life."

Trowbridge Future runs weekly kindness cafes at the Seymour Hub and Longfield Community Centre, as well as three community fridges working with communities not reached by the food bank.

The fridges share unsold food from stores in town and feed 5,000 people each year.

More than 300 young people currently attend free weekly youth sessions led by professional youth workers.

The sessions support those with disabilities, mental health and learning needs.