Wrexham media company gets funding boost to extend Recovery in Focus project

A Wrexham-based media company has received a share of funding to increase and extend its Recovery in Focus project.

Eternal Media is amongst 63 groups celebrating receiving a share of more than £1 million for their community thanks to National Lottery players.

The grants awarded aim to help communities all over Wales this Christmas, as the impact of the pandemic and cost of living crisis is still felt by many.

Locally Eternal Media received £100,000 to increase and extend its Recovery in Focus project for two years, delivering across Wales.

The group supports people in early recovery from addiction by involving them in filmmaking.

The cost-of-living crisis and its associated mental health conditions has been identified as a significant factor in causing relapse.

Jill Whittingham, Lead Therapist at Eternal Media and Facilitator of Recovery in Focus, said: “To be awarded this funding by The National Lottery Community Fund is an incredible validation of our Recovery in Focus project.

“We are passionate about supporting people in recovery from addiction and using photography in this way offers a unique and creative way to develop tools and skills that really support a recovery process.

“We are immensely proud of Recovery in Focus and now have the funding to make sure this can be offered to so many more people in Wales.”

Communities across Wales will also benefit from Wales Epilepsy Association Cyf’s grant.

The group applied for a £90,020 grant to continue and expand its Wales wide individualised support and outreach work for people impacted by epilepsy, whilst addressing the impact of the cost of living crisis.

Fiona Kettell, Operations Manager at Epilepsy Wales, said:“Thanks to all National Lottery players and the award of this grant, Epilepsy Wales will be able to continue its vital work, supporting people with epilepsy and their families across Wales.

“We are delighted that with this funding we can provide a range of services, including our groups and outreach support, with a focus on issues that have been exacerbated by the cost of living crisis, including social isolation, benefits and employment support.”

John Rose, Wales Director at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “The Fund is dedicated to supporting projects like these that are vital to communities, especially this time of the year.

“It’s amazing to see these groups bringing people together, creating stronger social connections and helping to develop new skills. National Lottery players raise over £30 million each week for good causes like these throughout the UK.”