Community Choices backing helps 25 local projects take the next step
The votes are finally in and 25 community projects across Falkirk Council's nine wards have been awarded up to £5,000 each through the latest round of Community Choices!
More than 4,000 votes were cast during the public vote, with 25 of the 55 eligible groups that applied securing a share of almost £116,000.
Now in its sixth phase, Community Choices is a participatory budgeting programme run by the Council. It gives local people a direct say in how public money is spent on community-led projects.
Since launching in 2020, around £3.5m has been distributed through the programme, supporting more than 200 projects across the Council area.
This year, groups once again rallied their communities to get behind them, using everything from social media campaigns to leaflets and conversations on the doorstep.
Kenneth Lawrie, Chief Executive Officer, said:
I am delighted to be able to announce that 25 local projects have benefited from a total of £115,810 from the Community Choices Fund, our Participatory Budgeting grant scheme.
“Participatory budgeting is a democratic way for people to decide how to allocate some of the Council budget, allowing them to identify, discuss, and prioritise projects that benefit their communities the most.
“This round of Community Choices has once again highlighted the creativity, passion and commitment of local groups across all our nine ward areas. We’ve seen energetic social media campaigns, one-to‑one conversations on doorsteps and events in community spaces, all encouraging people to take part.
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to every group that put forward a project and to every resident who cast a vote. Community Choices continues to demonstrate that when we empower our communities to lead, we unlock ideas and activities that make Falkirk a better place for everyone.
Finding connection through song in Falkirk North
For some people, joining a choir isn't just about the singing, it's the first time they've left the house all week.
Freedom of Mind Community Choir has received £4,993 to deliver its Songs of Connection and Joy project, a programme of songwriting workshops and free community performances running from April to December 2026.
The project is designed to reach people experiencing isolation, loneliness, disability, mental ill health and chronic ill health - offering a reason to get out, be creative and connect with others. Accessible transport will be provided for choir members who need it, removing one of the most common barriers to taking part.
Eight songwriting workshops will give members the chance to write and shape their own material, followed by eight free performances open to the wider community. Around 250 people are expected to benefit through participation and attendance.
Kim Edgar, co-Music Director and Project Manager of the group, said:
Freedom of Mind Community Choir are delighted that we've been successful in the public vote, which will enable us to write four uplifting songs and share them in eight local performances.
“This will give our choir members a sense of achievement, purpose, and wellbeing, and bring those experiencing isolation and loneliness in Falkirk North, including disabled and older people, feelings of connection and joy!
Accessible sport for all at Polmont
As for many other people, the hardest part of getting active isn't the exercise, it's finding somewhere that feels welcoming enough to try.
Polmont Sports Centre Community Group has been awarded £4,435 to deliver Activities for All, a new programme of accessible sports designed for disabled people, individuals with additional support needs, older adults and community members who may be at risk of social isolation.
The funding will bring a range of gentle, low-impact activities to the centre, including boccia, soft archery, New Age Kurling and carpet bowls. All are chair-friendly and designed to help people stay active, build confidence and enjoy social contact at their own pace.
The group will work with Forth Valley Disability Sport and local agencies to get the word out, using networks such as GP surgeries, libraries, community councils and carers' organisations to reach those who stand to benefit most.
Janet Crosthwaite, Treasurer and Secretary of Polmont Sports Centre Community Group, said:
We are honoured to be chosen by our community to receive this award and wish to thank everyone who voted for us.
"It will mean we can extend our activities to more elderly groups and our disabled community to enable us to further reinforce our aim of being for our whole community regardless of age, ability, sex, income or ethnicity.