Four local organisations could be in line for a share of £300,000 after making the shortlist for this year’s People’s Postcode Lottery Dream Fund.

Community Food Initiatives North East (CFINE) are partnering with Aberdeen Foyer, Grampian Housing Association and North East Scotland Credit Union in a bid to create a series of one-stop ‘shoppies’ in Aberdeen.

The service would offer vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals and families access to a wide range of services and support that will also establish volunteering and employment opportunities. The group would hope to deliver services which would help with accommodation, health including eating and exercise, training and employment, financial capability including money advice and savings and affordable loans.

Dave Simmers from CFINE said “We are delighted to have been shortlisted in the People’s Postcode Lottery’s Dream Fund. It is recognition of our innovative and forward thinking partnership approach to tackling disadvantage and vulnerability in and with the north east’s priority communities.

“These services we wish to offer will impact positively on thousands of residents and in excess of 200 individuals shall contribute and benefit from volunteering opportunities in a wide range of activities."

The People’s Postcode Lottery launched the Dream Fund last year and with it introduced a brand new way of funding across Scotland. Seeking to encourage charities and organisations to join together for the first time to deliver a large scale ‘dream’ project, the funding is supported entirely by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery.

Eight projects have made the shortlist and the partnership has applied for £100,000 to make their project a reality. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, January 31 at the lottery’s annual charity gala to be held at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.