THE Laurie Brewis Trust has been selected as a finalist in The Lanes Shopping Centre's £1,000 Community Fund. 

The organisation, which is located on Heathlands Farms on the outskirts of Carlisle, provides a day service for adults with learning and physical disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism.

As part of The Lanes' Community Fund, which was launched in April, The Laurie Brewis Trust was selected by a panel of judges as one of six finalists who would be in the running for the funding. 

After being chosen as a finalist, The Laurie Brewis Trust's admin and HR officer Toni Sullivan was on hand to explain more about the local organisation.

She said: "The Laurie Brewis Trust is a charitable organisation located on the outskirts of Carlisle that runs Heathlands, a thriving day service for adults with learning and physical disabilities, acquired brain injury, and autism.

"Our mission is to be inclusive and enhance the lives of vulnerable individuals in the local community in a variety of ways to increase independence, confidence, and general wellbeing."

Toni also explained what The Laurie Brewis Trust would do with the £1,000 fund if it was selected as a winner.

She said: "The Lanes Community Fund will be used to fund the purchase of new playground activities like Foot Golf and to install playground markings such as Hopscotch and Snakes and Ladders to the central outdoor area at Heathlands.

"Being outdoors and engaging in physical activities can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression and improve fitness.

"Outdoor play also promotes freedom and independence, helps people learn new skills, boosts confidence, and enhances overall wellbeing.

"To encourage people to go outside and be active we need to create a safe, fun, and inviting environment.

"Attractive and welcoming spaces with playground markings and new games motivate people to join in and feel a sense of belonging. 

"This funding will have a significant and lasting positive impact on the vulnerable adults at Heathlands."

Voting for The Lanes Shopping Centre's £1,000 Community Fund opened on Tuesday, August 27 via the shopping centre's Facebook page. 

Voting will close on Tuesday, September 3, with the recipient of the fund set to be announced shortly after and locals are encouraged to support their favourite before the public voting period concludes.