Today, ScotRail announced its partnership with Foundation Scotland, which will manage the train operator’s £90,000 fund to help local communities flourish across Scotland.

Over the course of the next year, the ScotRail Foundation will distribute grants across three separate areas; Community Fund, Cultural and Arts Fund, and Employee Charitable Giving Fund.

Community groups can apply for grants from the £40,000 Community Fund. Awards from £250 to £5,000 can be used to support children and young people, and to improve the environment or general health of communities.

The Cultural and Arts Fund* – launched in November 2015 as part of the ‘ScotRail in the Community’ scheme – will also award £40,000 to charities, individuals and local groups that promote creativity, the arts, community recreation, sports themes and other cultural activity, as well as celebrate Scotland’s cultural heritage in its full diversity. Applicants can request grants of up to £5,000.

The remaining £10,000 has been set aside for ScotRail’s Employee Charitable Giving Fund, where ‘match funding’ will be awarded to staff members who raise money on behalf of their own special causes – up to £250 for each application.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop, said: “We know culture and the arts can tackle inequalities, empower people and transform lives. The Scottish Government is working hard to widen access to the arts, ensuring people of all ages can enjoy and participate in cultural activity and experience our heritage.

“The ScotRail Foundation demonstrates an ongoing commitment to ensuring that communities across Scotland are supported to create and participate, so that all the hard work and imagination that contribute to the cultural life of our communities is recognised and rewarded. I encourage charities, individuals and local groups to apply for funding.”

Foundation Scotland* – an independent charity with almost 20 years of grant making experience – has been appointed to manage the fund on behalf of ScotRail.

Giles Ruck, CEO Foundation Scotland said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the ScotRail Foundation to deliver this new fund supporting communities across Scotland.

“I am sure the combination of our grant-making experience and ScotRail’s commitment to supporting local communities will ensure this new fund will create a lasting legacy for future generations.”

To apply, or to find out more about the above Funds, please visit:  www.foundationscotland.org.uk/scotrail