Community groups and organisations across Cumbria are celebrating today after receiving almost £730,000 of National Lottery funding.

This vital funding has been awarded by The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK, and is helping people and communities to build back from the pandemic, prosper and thrive.

In Barrow-in-Furness, Theatre Factory has received over £150,000 to expand its work empowering young people and children over the next three years, with the aim to improve their mental wellbeing and resilience, develop their confidence and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Rachel Ashton, Artistic Director of Theatre Factory, said: “Here at Theatre Factory we are incredibly grateful to all the National Lottery players in the UK. Your money has helped us to continue our work in Barrow-in-Furness where we use the arts to help people develop resilience, confidence and happiness. The continued support has allowed us to  respond to need within the community and also to offer continuity to our participants and partners.”

Duncan Nicholson, Head of Funding for the North East and Cumbria at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players and the hard work and dedication of local projects, this funding will make a big difference to people’s lives across Cumbria.  We’re delighted that our funding is being used to strengthen communities and provide people with the tools and support they need to prosper and thrive.”