LEAP’s 33^rd AGM highlighted the vital services the charity provides to older people throughout South Lanarkshire

The event - which was attended by more than 100 people - celebrated the role not just of the charity, but also the hundreds of volunteers responsible for delivering LEAP’s front-line services.

The AGM also co-incided with the publication of the Charities Aid Foundation report that showed that 25 per cent of people in South Lanarkshire relied on a charity for essential support last year.

The report also stated that donations to charities had fallen and the need for policymakers to help make local charities more sustainable, something that was noted by AGM host Andy Kerr, former MSP and Scottish Government Minister.

Andy said: “It is shocking that one in four people in the area rely on the third sector for vital support services.

“At a time of funding constraints, it is key that the role of charities such as LEAP in preventing intervention of statutory services is properly recognised and funded.

“Scotland’s voluntary sector is resilient. It is innovative. It is compassionate. But it cannot run on goodwill alone. If we want a fairer, healthier, and more inclusive Scotland, we must invest in organisations such as LEAP and the people who make that vision possible.”

On a brighter note, the charity awarded its volunteers of the year.

William Broadley was awarded Handyperson of the Year for his work to help people stay safe in their homes by carrying out small jobs they could no longer do themselves, and his constant support in helping LEAP refurbish its new Community Hubs.

Also, Grace Coyle was named the charity’s Volunteer of the Year for her vital work supporting its dementia services and friendship groups, and always being the first to put up her hand for any request to help.

To find out more about LEAP and its services, or to volunteer with the charity, call LEAP on 0141 61 5169, email enquiries@leap-project.co.uk or visit www.leap-project.co.uk