Laxdale jumps for joy!

Laxdale residents are benefiting from new Games Hall flooring at their recently renovated Laxdale Hall, due to a £15,000 Capital Grant from NHS Western Isles to the Laxdale Community Association (LCA).

Previously, the LCA successfully secured over £600,000 funding from a number of sources to rebuild the old part of the Laxdale Hall to re-insulate and line the steel frame Games Hall. However, the refurbishment budget did not cover re-flooring the well-worn and uneven chipboards, limiting its potential use for hosting various community groups.

Now, as well as continuing community youth and adult sports for years to come, the upgraded floor will ensure that the facility can be used year-round for a diverse range of activities which support both physical and mental health, such as the baby and toddler group, youth club and those with physical and learning disabilities.  This is in addition to its existing activities of youth club sports, dance classes, yoga and running conditioning sessions.

Dr Sara Else, NHS Western Isles Medical Director, said, “NHS Western Isles was pleased to contribute funding towards the removal, preparation and renewal of Laxdale Hall’s Games Hall flooring. Physical activity has a direct link to improved mental health, and by offering a reliable and accessible space for its activities, the Games Hall will play a vital role in promoting mental well-being across all age groups, particularly those experiencing isolation and mental health challenges.”

Iain M. Macaulay, LCA Treasurer, said “We are very grateful to NHS Western Isles for their generous donation. This has enabled us to install a high-quality, non-slip sports flooring that is suitable for a wide variety of activities, including team sports, fitness classes, and rehabilitation programs.  Overall, this upgrade will improve safety, reduce the risk of injury, and extend the lifespan of our community facility, ensuring it can be used by generations to come.”

In addition, Laxdale residents are also being encouraged to volunteer a few hours each month to assist with hosting the various Laxdale Hall activities.  Full support will be provided and for further information on taking part, please telephone 07414 783139 or email: laxdalehall@gmail.com

This funding was made available to NHS Western Isles as capital grant funding, separate to revenue and capital core funding allocations for patient care and NHS services/staff. NHS Western Isles understands how difficult the financial situation can be for the third sector and not for profit organisations and bids for Capital Grant funding from NHS Scotland to help support these groups.

Pictured are (in no order): Danny Maclean (GL7), Ayla Lonie (GM4), Nathan Barker (GL3) and George Murray (GM5), children from Laxdale School jumping for joy on the new Games Hall flooring.