WEST FIFE groups could be in with the chance of securing up to £3000 worth of vital funding to help with the cost-of-living and energy crisis.

Since its launch in April 2020, the University of St Andrews Community Fund has handed out £186,000 in assistance to groups and charities.

The scheme, which originally began as COVID aid, has been boosted by £120,000 in donations from alumni and supporters and last year it was agreed that support would shift to those most affected by the rising cost of living.

Projects in the central and north east areas of the Kingdom have already benefitted, including Brighter Futures, based in Glenrothes, for its 'Hope, Health and Happiness' initiative which is designed to enhance the quality of life for people in need.

Rose Duncan, Health and Wellbeing Manager, explained: "We offer a range of services in the community, including peripatetic health events, alternative therapies and social activities in community-use buildings like village halls.

"We also run a ‘Winter Warmth’ day each Wednesday where people suffering from the cost-of-living crisis can come together for hot snacks and activities, and form new friendships.

"Financial support from the University Community Fund has helped us to cover transport, volunteer expenses, publicity, various materials and food resilience. In addition to grants and in-kind support we also do our own fundraising to ensure our project is sustainable."

The Friendship Cabin, based at Woodside Community Hall in Glenrothes, was awarded £1750 to support its community "safe haven" and help to cover rental costs, food and volunteer expenses, while Kirkcaldy Rugby Club's Women and Girls Widening Growth project received a £2700 grant.

There was also funding for the Dino Club in Newburgh, Crossroads Fife, Auchtermuchty Community centre, and Craigtoun Park, near St Andrews.

The scheme will further allow the 8th Fife (St Andrews) Scout Group and the 12th Fife (East Neuk) Scouts group to take 35 scouts and 15 leaders to Kanderstag in Switzerland to celebrate the centenary of scouting.

Heather Edie, the University’s Head of Campaign and Donor Relations and panel member, said: "We created the University Community Fund to enable us to listen to local needs and provide financial support where it is needed most.

"This resonated with our alumni, parents and friends and it is thanks to their generous donations that we have been able to support some incredibly worthwhile projects.

"We are grateful to all of our donors who understand just how important the St Andrews community is to the University."

More details on the fund and how to apply are available on the University of St Andrews Community Fund website.