Over £40k to Edinburgh Organisations from CashBack for Communities

Creative projects in Edinburgh will benefit from over £40,000 as part of the Scottish Government’s aim to tackle inequalities experienced by Scotland’s young people, in the Year of Young People 2018.

Six arts projects throughout Edinburgh will receive funding as part of the CashBack for Creativity Open Fund, which has awarded a total of £252,000 to 32 projects across the country.

MSP for Edinburgh Pentlands, Gordon Macdonald, joined the Justice Secretary, Michael Matheson, to hear the announcement on a visit to WHALE Arts - who, in partnership with Dance Ihayami, will be delivering one of the successful projects: Inspire Indian Dance Project, a project that will allow young people to participate in Indian dance, choreography, costume and set design and music activities.

The fund, which redistributes the proceeds of crime to benefit young people, offers a fantastic chance for young people to access a range of high-quality arts, screen and creative industries activities including film-making, fashion, design, arts and crafts, dance creations, music making and creative writing.

Commenting SNP MSP for Edinburgh Pentlands, Gordon Macdonald, said, “It’s great to see the Scottish Government investing in local creative projects, like the Inspire Indian Dance Project and The BIG Project in Broomhouse. It is so important for everyone to experience and explore these creative opportunities, at a young age.

“These projects have the ability to inspire our young people, put creativity at the heart of their personal, educational and career development, and allow them to shape their local communities.

“The funding allowing every young person, regardless of their background, access to these creative opportunities – projects that encourage them to think outside the box, problem solve, work as part of a team and learn vital communication skills that will give them the best chance possible to reach their full potential.”

Commenting Justice Secretary, Michael Matheson, said, “Today’s investment of £252,000 in 32 CashBack for Creativity projects underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to tackling inequalities across Scotland by helping young people reach their full potential in life.

“Since 2008 we have committed £92 million to CashBack and other community programmes with £6.3 million invested in CashBack for Creativity initiatives. I am keen to ensure that such opportunities continue to be provided to help young people develop skills for the workplace, gain confidence and find employment.”

Commenting Laura Black, Arts Officer – CashBack for Creativity, Creative Scotland, said:

“The first round of the CashBack for Creativity Open Fund supported over 34 projects, providing access to hundreds of young people who are now producing, creating and exhibiting their own work. For many this is the first time they’ve been able to access creative opportunities.”