Seven charities from across England are set to receive a share of a funding pot of over £1.2million from the ScottishPower Foundation, helping to tackle some of the most pressing issues in their communities including digital exclusion and closing the educational gap.

Along with eight other projects in Scotland and Wales, this funding boost will empower the charities to expand their vital services, reach new audiences, and provide crucial support to the communities they serve during an increasingly challenging time for the third sector.

Thanks to the additional support, one of the projects run by London’s oldest sight loss charity, BlindAid, is introducing an inspiring new initiative that pairs essential digital skills training with a weekly social lunch club for blind and visually impaired adults.

Recognising that sight loss can often lead to a loss of independence and increased isolation, this focuses on rebuilding confidence and community, bringing people together across London to rediscover their digital independence.

The sessions are led by a tutor and volunteer assistant who both experience visual impairments. This shared understanding creates a supportive environment where participants can learn from mentors who truly appreciate the challenges they face. Beyond teaching IT skills, the initiative offers a vital space for friendship and connection, ensuring that no one navigates sight loss alone.

Richie Walden, Director of Operations at BlindAid, said: “Funding from the ScottishPower Foundation will enable BlindAid to transform the lives of isolated blind and partially sighted people in London. Many face significant digital exclusion due to the cost of assistive technology and a lack of tailored training. This grant allows us to deliver high-quality, person-centred screen reader courses, led by our blind digital skills tutor who brings invaluable lived experience.

“Through this programme, participants gain the skills to access essential online services, build confidence in navigating the digital world, and expand their social networks both in-person and online. With the ScottishPower Foundation’s support, we can directly reduce digital exclusion and help people build the independence, confidence, and social connections they deserve.”

Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said: “We are always looking to back organisations that drive meaningful and lasting change, especially during such a challenging time for the charity sector.

“BlindAid’s new initiative is a fantastic example of this. It not only teaches essential digital skills to help visually impaired adults regain their independence but also tackles isolation through its social lunch club. Everyone deserves the opportunity to feel connected and confident, and BlindAid is doing an incredible job of ensuring no one navigates the challenges of sight loss alone.

“We believe all of this year’s funded projects will play a crucial role in our society – whether they are tackling poverty, closing educational gaps, or celebrating our rich cultural heritage – and we cannot wait to see the extraordinary impact they will have this year.”

Another project benefitting from funding and focused on education and community empowerment is Libraries Unlimited South West’s Ready to Rise initiative. The Exeter-based charity will use its funding to tackle educational inequality and nurture a lasting passion for reading among disadvantaged families. Through imaginative literacy activities in schools and libraries, the initiative will break down barriers to learning, enhance school readiness, and build confidence in parents and children alike.

Also celebrating a funding award is Phoenix Dance Theatre in Leeds, which will empower young people to explore the powerful legacy of the Windrush generation in shaping contemporary dance and Black British music. Collaborating with historians and practitioners, twelve youth groups will create original performances to be showcased during Windrush Month, deepening their confidence, respect, and appreciation for this vibrant cultural heritage.

Since 2013, the ScottishPower Foundation has donated over £16million to charitable initiatives throughout the UK, including 270 grants. This year’s funding continues to bolster projects focused on education, training, climate action, the arts, and social initiatives that will make a real impact in their communities.