Cash for communities will help preparations for severe weather

Communities across Perth and Kinross are among those benefiting from £32,000 of grants to help them become more resilient and prepare for winter storms this year.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks’ (SSEN) Resilient Communities Fund is supporting seven community groups across Perth, Kinross and Angus to deliver projects to help protect the most vulnerable and enhance facilities and communication during any severe weather.

The fund was established to support community groups, charities and non-profit making organisations in SSEN’s distribution network area, offering grants of up to £20,000.

The fund is particularly focused on projects helping vulnerable or isolated people living in SSEN’s network areas to ensure they are supported during emergency events.

Perth First Responders, who answer 999 calls in areas where lives are in danger and it may be difficult for the Scottish Ambulance Service to reach within its allotted time, received £15,000 to purchase a new emergency response vehicle.

Other beneficiaries include Strathmore Sharks Rugby Club – £2,000 for a defibrillator, Stanley and District Community Council – £3,050 to replace the fire alarm system at an emergency hub in the community, and Coupar Angus and Bendochy Community Council – £1,890 to supply 300 bags in the event of a flood.