Newstead Village Hall Committee

1. How has this funding impacted your organisation overall?

Funding from BCA’s Retrofit Fund and Community Spaces Decarbonisation Fund of £10,545.65, has allowed Newstead Village Hall Committee to have roof insulation installed, and to replace the old front door and glazed screens with a strong, double glazed modern door with a secure lock. Both of these projects have reduced heat loss in the building.

2. What difference has the funding made for the people you support?

So many people who use the Hall have commented on the improvement in the warmth especially during the cold weather.

3. In what ways has the funding affected your volunteers or their involvement?

We used to struggle with the lock on the front door especially in damp conditions, and the previous structure of the door was difficult to keep clean.

4. What improvements or changes have you made to your programmes or services as a result of the funding?

We have had extra Hall bookings since these improvements, because the village hall is a nicer place to be in.

We have monthly coffee afternoons, Pilates, Salsa, Flute Group, Spanish Lessons, Quilting, Maths Tuition, Film Club, Ceilidhs, have hosted a Toddler Group which needed a temporary home, as well as parties and other events.

5. Has the funding led to any new collaborations or strengthened community connections?

When Darnick Hall was having renovations, their Toddler Group chose Newstead as a temporary location.

Newstead Village Community Trust are planning to increase social events in the Hall since we had these improvements done.

6. How has the funding influenced your organisation’s sustainability or future plans?

This funding has allowed us to be successful in securing funding from CARES Local Energy Scotland, to install Solar PV and Batteries which will further reduce our energy consumption and reduce our electricity bills.

7. What feedback do you have about the funding application and award process?

We found the funding application process to be fairly straightforward and BCA were very helpful throughout. Due to the deadlines applied by the Funds, there were very short timeframes to allow Contractors to schedule works. It was very tight!

8. What additional support would help you build on the success of this funding?

We would like to be able to have interior and exterior painting to be done, to make the whole building look smarter and more pleasing.

9. Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience with this funding?

We could not have done these projects without the Funding from BCA, and it is greatly appreciated. Previously we felt they were unattainable goals.