A Lochgelly-based initiative has been praised for its work in supporting people across the Kingdom who are struggling due to the cost of living crisis.

The Big Hoose Project has its warehouse in Lochgelly. It's a project set up by Cottage Family Centre, working in partnership with Amazon UK, other companies and local charities to donate and distribute household goods to children and families living in poverty across Fife.

Through a referral process, items such as bedding, kitchen items, towels, toilet roll, nappies, rugs and other household furnishings and goods are distributed to those who need them most from charities including Fife Gingerbread, Homestart, Nourish, Lochgelly Community Group, SEAL Dunfermline, Fife Women’s Aid, foodbanks and pantries, as well as social workers, health visitors, schools, nurseries, housing officers, community teams and other organisations across Fife.  

Claire Baker, MSP for the Mid Scotland and Fife Region, who recently visited the warehouse and met manager Scott McGill, said she was extremely grateful to the staff and volunteers at the Cottage and to all those who work in partnership to deliver such a vital service to those who are vulnerable in our communities. 

"I know these services are working so hard supporting our communities struggling through the ongoing cost of living crisis," she added. "It was also good to hear that their support has now extended to organisations as far as Perth. 

"The UK and Scottish Governments must both provide adequate support to families who are experiencing hardship and I will continue to push for this in my work in the Scottish Parliament.”

Any organisations or groups which support families in Fife and would like to join the Big Hoose Project should email to administration@thecottagefamilycentre.org.uk.