Borders charity wins £617,000 lottery grant

Momentum Scotland today receives £616,925 for its Money Matters project, which will support those with brain injury and other neurological conditions to access the financial support and benefits they are entitled to. It will also help to educate people on how best to manage their money and to avoid falling into debt.

The other organisation is Action for Children, which will expand its work with young carers across the region. The charity has already been working in nine local secondary schools and thanks to a grant of £207,856, will now extend this support to young carers aged seven to 11 in all 63 local primary schools.

Momentum Scotland’s Harry Wood said: “Being able to manage your money is an essential lifeskill and a key part of living independently. The new Money Matters service will support people with a brain injury and other neurological conditions in the Scottish Borders to assess and understand their financial situation, manage their budget and get the best service from their self-directed support.

“This service will make a real difference, and enable people to take more control over their lives.”

Paula Gaunt-Richardson, children’s services manager at Action for Children Scotland, said: “Young carers often assume a level of responsibility which would usually be associated with an adult.

“It can be difficult to identify and help young carers because they often don’t realise there is anything unusual about the role they have at home. We can now reach out to them and ensure they get the support they need.”