The Machan Trust is a long standing, highly respected local charity based in Larkhall working with the community, including children, young people, and families in Larkhall and surrounding areas, focusing on Hareleeshill, Strutherhill, Ashgill & Netherburn.
We are open to all, and this includes work with the most deprived 5% - 20% of the community. Our ethos is to be inclusive, therefore removing any stigma and working for the whole community, not just some members.
Through fun and interactive activities, we work to raise aspirations, develop social skills, and teach new skills, building strong relationships and resilience for any challenges faced. We provide food at every activity. We run breakfast, lunch, after school and family groups. We also work with many ethnic minorities and with the LGBTQI+ community. Our work is diverse and includes working with families from Nigeria, Poland, Ukraine and from the Gypsy / traveller Community.
We engage with children, young people, and families within the local community, working hard in our outreach, to meet people where they are. We work with many families who are isolated and many who are affected by social anxiety and mental health issues.
We are keen to meet the increasing demand for our activities. We currently work with around 800 people a week, over 52 weekly groups with around an additional 250 children who attend our breakfast clubs. Our family work includes crafts, cooking, first aid and mental health support.
