Two Dalmuir-based housing associations have stepped forward to help their tenants most in need who have had their lives changed by the pandemic.

Dalmuir Park and neighbouring Trafalgar housing associations completed a mammoth effort to help their local community combat the health emergency.

The organisations received a total of £21,000 in Scottish Government funding to deliver activity packs to people’s homes and supplying fish suppers to Dalmuir Park’s sheltered housing tenants.

Anne Marie Brown, chief executive of Dalmuir Park Housing Association, said: “The last six months have undoubtedly been the most challenging many of us have ever lived through.

“The pandemic has touched so many people in our community and thrown countless lives into chaos.

“Dalmuir Park is proud to have played our part in distributing items purchased with Scottish Government funding which has helped ease the difficulties so many people have faced.”

Among the tenants of Dalmuir Park were a small family who were surprised to receive fun games, toys and gifts.

Dad David said: “During these times with lockdown and home schooling, I was surprised with a knock at the door and toy packs for my children.

“It has kept my kids entertained throughout these uncertain times, so thank you so very much.”

A total of 209 children from both associations were helped, each child received games and toys and a total of 206 elderly tenants received puzzle books and fish suppers.

Paul McShane, the director of Trafalgar Housing Association, said: “We were able to bring some relief during the difficult lockdown months and I want to thank the staff for their truly incredible efforts in making this happen.

“The work carried out in recent months illustrates the important role community-based housing associations have going far beyond just collecting the rent and carrying out repairs.

“We greatly value the part we play in our community and are always here to help.”