Long-running North Devon charity saved thanks to National Lottery grant

A Barnstaple-based charity described as a ‘lifeline’ for some of North Devon’s more marginalised communities is celebrating a more secure future thanks to almost £500,000 in National Lottery funding.

Last autumn, Sunrise Diversity launched an urgent appeal for short-term funds amid fears it might have to close its doors for good after more than a decade in the town.

But now with £499,980 in support pledged over the next five years by the National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF), not only are the doors staying open, but the charity can expand its work too.

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Sunrise supports diverse communities across North Devon and Torridge including people from ethnically diverse backgrounds, refugees and LGBTQ+ communities.

The charity already offers a range of services such as providing English classes (ESOL) and LGBTQ+ peer support, as well as advocacy for families in crisis and grassroots diversity training.

Above: Sunrise Diversity runs classes to help people learn English at its Sunrise Community Hub. Credit: Sunrise Diversity

The new funding will enable it to continue delivering inclusive services across the region as well as recruit four new team members, strengthening its capacity to deliver a five-year programme of safe spaces, advocacy and community development work.

Sunrise will enhance its outreach and support programmes, ensuring that people from diverse backgrounds have access to opportunities, advice and a welcoming community.

The charity said that while the National Lottery funding marked ‘a significant milestone’, it still relies on continued support from local partners, donors and volunteers to sustain and grow its services.

It said local support had been hugely appreciate during the recent difficult months and it wanted to encourage those interested in making a difference to continue to support an invaluable local organisation.

Ana Lodge, CEO of Sunrise Diversity, said: “We are grateful for the trust and investment shown by the National Lottery Community Fund. This funding gives us security and confidence to continue supporting those who need it most and to welcome four new colleagues who share our vision for a fairer, more inclusive Devon.

“Local supporters are also hugely important to us and we thank everyone who has given their time and funding in recent times and encourage you to join us again now as a supporter, volunteer or donor as we move into this exciting new phase.”

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Jon Lockett, chair of Sunrise Diversity, added: “Our work is only possible thanks to the commitment of our team, community, volunteers, and funding partners. We urge local people to join us in creating positive change. Together, we can build a stronger, kinder Northern Devon.”

Sunrise Diversity added its ‘heartfelt thanks to the National Lottery and its players for their generous support’. It said this partnership was instrumental in driving positive change and creating opportunities for those who might otherwise be overlooked.

You can find out more about Sunrise Diversity, its work and the services offered at https://sunrisediversity.org.uk