DISABLED people in Yoker are set to benefit from a new service designed to improve community engagement after a local group was awarded more than £450,000 in funding.

The Yoker Resource Centre has received an award of £478,230 through the Big Lottery Fund to enable the charity to deliver an innovative new service, in collaboration with Volunteer Glasgow, to help people with disabilities throughout west Glasgow and West Dunbartonshire.

The service will empower participants to build a network of social connections and give them access to activities of their choice at a time and place to suit them.

Development and regeneration manager at the centre, Dougie Taylor, said the new system will help break down the barriers that often separate those with disabilities from becoming involved with community activities.

He said: “One of the problems that people with a disability have is to access opportunities that happen outwith normal working hours and another problem they have is engaging with their community because there are all kinds of barriers that have nothing to do with their disability.

“We will do all the usual work that charities do with people that have a disability but beyond that we will work with the community to say we’ve had a people with a disability who want to do x, y and z but can’t because perhaps the facilities aren’t disability friendly so can we improve that?”

He added: “We’re trying to get away from the traditional, statutory provision which is that we fire into your house, do work, very important work, but then leave.”

Until now all the charities involved have been working largely independently, which has meant a limitation to the services available but as part of the Big Lottery Fund’s £250 million scheme, the group will be able to provide a tailored service to each individual.

The group is hoping to have the funding, which will be spread over three years, in place shortly and plans to launch the programme within the next three months.

Since the centre began more than 30 years ago, it has worked to improve such partnerships in the area and it’s committee chair is adamant this funding will further their ability to do so.

Thomas Munro, chair of the Yoker Resource Centre Committee, said: “Our community is very grateful for this investment, which I am certain will have a hugely positive impact on the lives of some of our most disadvantaged residents.”

Yoker’s MSP Bill Kidd has submitted a parliament motion to congratulate the group.

Mr Kidd said: “I am delighted and proud of what The Yoker Resource Centre has today achieved. This funding will make a tremendous difference to the lives of so many.

“The centre will open up a myriad of opportunities for all involved. It is services like these which connect a community and make it thrive.

“Prior to this many charities aiming for similar goals have worked independently and I anticipate this change will not only usher in greater effectiveness but mean that even more beneficiaries are reached.”

Maureen McGinn, Big Lottery Fund Scotland chairwoman, added: “I am delighted The Yoker Resource Centre has been successful in securing a grant.

"The funding will make a big difference where it is needed most and I wish the centre Yoker Resource Centre every success as it goes on to develop and expand its project for the benefit of their local community.”