Thirteen charities across Ayrshire are set to benefit from thousands of pounds in funding thanks to local school pupils. 

Through The Wood Foundation’s Youth and Philanthropy Initiative, young people researched and represented causes including mental health, poverty, abuse, and support for those with health and disability conditions.

The initiative's active citizenship programme engages a full year-group within each school who learn about the needs of their communities and the work of local charities.

The students work in teams to do in-depth research and develop a creative and convincing presentation in a bid to secure their school’s YPI grant of £3,000.

Each of the successful teams brought to life their social issue, the difference the charity makes, and the business case for the local impact of the £3,000 grant.

13 Ayrshire charities will now benefit from fresh funding thanks to pupils at schools across the region, as highlighted below...

  • Ardrossan Academy - North Ayrshire Women's Aid
  • Arran High School - Isle of Arran Music School
  • Auchenharvie Academy - Three Towns and District Men's Shed
  • Greenwood Academy - Irvine and Troon Cancer Care
  • Irvine Royal Academy - Irvine and Troon Cancer Care
  • Kilwinning Academy - North Ayrshire Forum on Disability
  • Largs Academy - North Ayrshire Forum on Disability 
  • Ayr Academy - Night Before Christmas Campaign
  • Belmont Academy - Ayr Housing Aid Centre
  • Carrick Academy - Aoife's Sensory Bus
  • Girvan Academy - Place2Be
  • Kyle Academy - South Ayrshire Women's Aid
  • Marr College - Action on Asbestos 
  • Prestwick Academy - Ayrshire Sportsability
  • Queen Margaret Academy - Turning Point Scotland

The Wood Foundation, the venture philanthropic organisation established by Sir Ian Wood and his family, is the operational manager and principal funder of YPI in Scotland.