A total of £45,000 of funding from the Community Chest Grant Scheme was given to organisations to use for equipment, running costs, activities for children and older residents, community events, and activities for disabled children.

Groups also received more than £58,000 from the Social Transport Grant for projects to reduce social isolation and transport group members to and from clubs and activities.

In addition, West Dunbartonshire Community Volunteer Service (WDCVS), which administers these funds on the council’s behalf, re-routed applicants to other sources of funding resulting in successful applications for more than £321,000 in funding.

Councillor Daniel Lennie, convener of Corporate Services, said: “This money has been a lifeline for residents who rely on these community groups for the important and essential services they provide. “As a Council we are committed to ensuring financial help is available to the many organisations who play a vital role in supporting some of our most vulnerable residents.”

Councillor Michelle McGinty, vice convener of Corporate Services, said: “This money helps to sustain the great work carried out by these groups which is clearly making a difference to the lives of many residents across West Dunbartonshire. I am delighted we are able to help so many deserving groups, which in turn is reducing isolation by helping residents be active in their community by participating in events and social clubs.”