Funding Boost Ensures Continues Delivery of Heritage Projects

Rushen Heritage Trust has received a grant from Manx Lottery Trust to support the continued employment of its Co-ordinator, a vital role that underpins the charity’s day-to-day operations and community engagement.

The Co-ordinator provides essential support beyond the capacity of the charity’s volunteers, who run the Heritage Centre from Tuesday to Saturday and prepare exhibitions and small events. Responsibilities include managing grant applications, organising the popular winter talk series, liaising with venues, overseeing ticketing and event logistics, and supporting volunteer teams.

The role also manages all communications activity for the Trust, including maintaining the website and social media channels, preparing advertising and newsletters, coordinating media releases, and handling all incoming correspondence. This central support ensures the Trust can deliver a consistent and professional service to the community.

Juan Watterson from Rushen Heritage Trust said: “Our volunteers give an incredible amount of time, but there are tasks that simply fall outside what we can reasonably expect of them. The Co-ordinator is essential in keeping our activity organised, visible and accessible. This support from Manx Lottery Trust allows us to continue offering exhibitions, talks and heritage projects that the community values.”

Sarah Kelly, Chair of Manx Lottery Trust, said: “Rushen Heritage Trust plays an important role in preserving and sharing the area’s history, and the Co-ordinator ensures volunteers are supported to deliver that work effectively. We are pleased to help sustain a role that has a clear and positive impact on the charity’s ability to serve its community.”

The funding enables the Trust to continue delivering its busy programme of events and exhibitions, ensuring local heritage remains accessible for residents and visitors alike.

The Dormant Assets Fund enables the redistribution of money from long-forgotten or inactive bank accounts, directing it to projects that bring long-term community benefit. Manx Lottery Trust administers the fund on behalf of the Isle of Man Government, ensuring it supports initiatives that strengthen local wellbeing and resilience.

For more information and how to apply, visit www.mlt.org.im.