The Association has dozens of initiatives through the Cairn Community Fund over the last five years, with local projects across Scotland applying for much-needed support to tackle social isolation, health inequalities and barriers to tenancy sustainment.
 
From the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, many people have been keen to help the most vulnerable and isolated in our society.  Cairn moved quickly to relax its funding criteria and accelerate the approval process to support local projects that were taking root in our communities.
 
An early recipient of funding during the crisis was Ladies of the Rock, a group of business owners in the Stirling area who are working with members of the community to deliver good quality meals to those in isolation during the lockdown. 

Cairn’s award helped Ladies of the Rock to purchase cooking equipment and supplies to increase the reach of their service.
 
Fran Nicol of Ladies of the Rock said: “Cairn heard about the lovely work we are doing and the joy we bring to their residents at Devlin Court with our nutritious soups and baked goods.  They celebrated this amazing community effort and to keep Ladies of the Rock going during these uncertain times, so we can keep on sharing smiles across the community.”
 
Amanda Hiddleston, Cairn’s court coordinator at Devlin Court, added: “Our residents have really appreciated the meals from Ladies of the Rock.  Many of them are isolating and it has lifted their spirits to get so much support from the community.”
 
Don Jamieson, Cairn’s board vice chair, said: “Thousands of people across Scotland have benefited from the Cairn Community Fund and we are
inspired by the amazing people who work tirelessly to support others during lockdown. The Cairn Community Fund is just one way Cairn contributes to creating thriving communities across Scotland. We are keen to hear from charities and community groups who want to work in partnership with Cairn.”

• Read all of our articles relating to COVID-19 here.