Manx Telecom celebrates over 15 years of 'It’s Our Community' 

Voluntary and charity groups can now apply for support in 2023

Manx Telecom has launched the 'It's Our Community' small grant scheme for 2023.

It's aimed at helping local charities, voluntary organisations and good causes to continue making a positive difference in our society.

This year marks the 15th round of grants since the scheme was established, with support given to over 175 initiatives in that time.

The grants range from £100 to £1000 and one of the first to be given out was to help with the refurbishment of Laxey Working Men’s Institute.

More recently Port Erin’s Men in Sheds project has received a grant that allowed them to buy more equipment for their workshop which is used by men who may have retired, been bereaved or who might otherwise feel isolated.

Men in Sheds Chairman Eddie Ryan says the grant not only provided practical help, but by allowing men to work together and share a tea break, it gave them a chance to socialise.

“It’s often said that older men don’t really talk about their issues but when they are working alongside each other, standing should to shoulder, it is easier to talk.

 “So we are helping to look after the mental health of older men – and sometimes the younger man who finds themselves in difficulty.”

Manx Telecom CEO Gary Lamb says, “As a business that is all about connecting people, it’s easy for us to recognise the enormous value that so many voluntary and charitable groups bring to different sections of our community, whether they work within the mainstream or with more disadvantaged and vulnerable people.

“Manx Telecom has always had a strong community focus – the business itself was built to serve the Manx people - and, as one of the largest employers on the Island, it’s important to us to support the society in which we operate.

“I’ve had the pleasure of being involved with It’s Our Community for over 15 years and it is always very humbling to read about all the amazing initiatives taking place. In the current economic climate, fundraising can be very challenging and we hope that our grants will help out many good causes in these difficult times.”  

Applications for 'It’s Our Community' can be made online by visiting manxtelecom.com/ioc and any Manx-based voluntary or charitable group can apply. 

The closing date for applications is 17th November 2023.