A Western Isles charity that provides free, independent advocacy services has expressed its gratitude for funding that secures its growing services and is creating new jobs.

Advocacy Western Isles secured the funding from five new partners in six months bringing around £125,000 into the islands, creating two new part-time jobs, and strengthening services for communities across the islands.

The funding will support both local and island-wide work. Support from the Stornoway Trust will strengthen advocacy for people with learning disabilities in Stornoway, while additional funding from Upside and the Paristamen Charity will support different areas of AWI’s work and help the organisation respond to growing demand.

Two major new projects funded by the Scottish Government and Inspiring Scotland will further expand support across the Western Isles. One will establish an innovative digital advocacy collective, gathering people’s experiences of the social care system through accessible online engagement to help inform service development. The second will create a series of Western Isles-wide, in-person disabled advocacy collective groups, giving people opportunities across the islands to share their experiences and help shape services and policy.

General Manager, Ian MacRae said, “We’re very grateful to have secured this support, particularly at a time when demand for independent advocacy is growing across the Western Isles. This funding allows us to respond to that need while developing new projects that give people more opportunities to share their experiences and influence the services they rely on. It also allows us to continue growing in a sustainable way, shaped by the voices of the people we support.”

Business and Finance Manager, Gordon Scott added, “We’re really pleased to have secured around £125,000 from five new funders in such a short space of time. Having a portfolio of 14 funders gives us a more secure and independent footing, helping us plan ahead with confidence. Most importantly, that investment is staying here in the Western Isles—supporting local jobs and strengthening services for our communities.”

The new projects are expected to begin rolling out across the Western Isles in the coming months.

For more information about Advocacy Western Isles, to make a referral, or to enquire about the charity’s work, contact the team on 01851 701755 or visit the website at www.advocacywi.co.uk. Further updates can also be found on Facebook.