SPAR’s annual Community Cashback campaign has once again provided direct funding to grassroots organisations with The Yard Dundee receiving one of this year’s headline £10,000 grants in recognition of its outstanding work supporting disabled children and their families.
Now in its fourth year, the campaign continues to grow in both reach and impact, with SPAR Scotland stepping up in 2025 to support even more causes north of the border. Launched in April, the initiative invited SPAR shoppers to nominate local charities, voluntary groups and good causes making a real difference in their communities. Thousands of nominations were received, demonstrating the vital role these organisations play in everyday life.
From mental health and disability support to youth development and grassroots sport, the 2025 winners span a wide range of sectors — all deeply rooted in the heart of their communities.
Among them was The Yard Dundee, a specialist charity creating play opportunities for disabled children and young people. The £10,000 grant was awarded on 23 July just months ahead of the charity’s new purpose-built premises opening in September, located just five minutes from SPAR Scotland’s Dundee depot.
“We’re incredibly grateful to SPAR Scotland for this generous grant at such an exciting time for The Yard Dundee," said Gill Thomson, Service Development Manager for The Yard Dundee. "With our new centre opening soon, this funding will help us create even more inclusive play opportunities and provide vital support for families who can feel left out of mainstream services. SPAR Scotland’s support shows real belief in our families and the importance of giving every child the chance to play, connect and thrive.”
The Yard’s mission is to bring fun, friendship and a sense of belonging to families who often feel isolated due to a lack of suitable play services for children with disabilities. Its work includes weekday school sessions, after-school clubs, weekend family play and specialist support from trained staff, all designed to help children and their families through play.
Paula Middleton, Head of Marketing at SPAR Scotland, said: “It was an easy choice when it came to selecting The Yard for our £10k award. They represent all the values we hold dear: community, equal opportunities, support, independence and most importantly, they are all about having fun! We can’t wait to visit regularly once their new centre opens in September.”
SPAR Scotland’s support aligns with a broader national movement driven by the Community Cashback campaign, which has awarded 200 grants since its launch in 2021. The initiative is a flagship example of SPAR’s long-standing commitment to supporting local communities, not just through retail presence but through significant investment in social impact.
Middleton added: “The response to this year’s campaign has been overwhelming. We have seen first-hand how these grants positively impact not just the organisations, but also the communities they serve. Supporting local communities is at the heart of what SPAR stands for, and this campaign is just one of the many ways we continue to give back. We are incredibly proud of everyone who took the time to nominate a cause that matters to them.”