A BRADFORD charity has cause for celebration after scooping a cash boost of more than £10,000 from the Morrisons Foundation. 

The money will help the Sandale Community Development Trust, based in Buttershaw, to offer twice-weekly drop-in sessions at their community hub for residents who have been experiencing isolation, helping them to meet other people and offering the opportunity to gain new life skills and take part in volunteering roles.

Training courses will also be available on first aid and mental health awareness, providing users with skills that build confidence and will have a lasting impact long after the project.

Chief executive Andy Walsh said: “On behalf of trustees, staff and volunteers, I would like to sincerely thank the Morrisons Foundation for this incredible grant donation.

"We work very hard in our community, and the last few years have taken a huge toll on people from all walks of life.

"Many in our community just need a little bit of extra support so they don't have to face those everyday struggles alone.

"Our project, Open Doors, means just that: residents can drop in for a brew and a chat, talk about issues, and be supported with anything from getting online, looking for work, or even taking part in courses like First Aid.”

Bradford South MP Judith Cummins added: “The team at Sandale Trust work at the heart of the community in Buttershaw and Woodside and offer a wide range of community activities that put people first.

"Through the pandemic, their efforts to provide free school meals, food parcels, and work with isolated members in our community has been a lifeline for many and has doubtless saved lives. 

“Supported by this Morrisons Foundation grant, they are now leading the way locally in helping hard-hit families as we recover.

"I was delighted to endorse their application, which will see Sandale provide space, support and training to bring residents together and build resilience in the community.”

The Morrisons Foundation was set up by Morrisons supermarket in 2015 and awards grants for charity projects which help improve people’s lives.