Local politicians pledge support for Juniors Play Café

Earlier this year, Juniors Play Café was dealt an enormous blow when the Scottish Government rejected its ‘Investing in Communities Fund’ application.

The Scottish Government has been the primary source of funding for the Hamilton-based charity for six years, and the application had previously been accepted without issue.

However, in an inexplicable and devastating decision, the government decided to pull funding, despite the incredible work Juniors Play Café has done and continues to do for the local community.

In response, owner Lesley Robertson organised a petition in an effort to convince the government to reverse its decision. The petition has amassed 725 signatures so far.

In a show of solidarity, two local MSPs visited Juniors Play Café in February. Scottish Labour and Co-operative Party MSP Monica Lennon and SNP MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall, and Stonehouse Christina McKelvie visited Juniors Play Café to meet with Lesley and discuss the situation.

The two MSPs pledged their support for Juniors Play Café and offered support in the fight to overturn the government’s decision.

Speaking to Lanarkshire Live, Monica Lennon said: “This has come as a massive shock to many in the local community, especially those who know and love the services that Juniors provides. Juniors really is a lifeline for families in Hamilton, Lanarkshire and beyond.

“It’s great to see so many local people come together to help support and fundraise for the charity to stay open- but really, the responsibility should lie with the Scottish Government to ensure Juniors can keep its doors open.”

Juniors has been a lifeline in the community for six years, but this government decision could see it close for good. Join us in the fight to save Juniors.