Around £15,000 has been invested into community projects in Carlisle's Petteril area.

The Petteril Community Panel has recently backed several initiatives, ranging from an outdoor classroom to a programme offering counselling for those who have experienced bullying.

The Laurie Brewis Trust in Rockcliffe was granted £2,000.

This will enable them to run sessions in the Petteril region in art, textiles, and chair-based exercise which are aimed at individuals who require supported learning.

Carlisle Mencap was also awarded £2,000 to initiate a training scheme.

This scheme intends to help those with learning disabilities and autism better grasp the subjects of equality, diversity and inclusion so that they can challenge any derogatory behaviour they may experience.

Botcherby Community Centre has been given £6,000 to create an accessible outdoor community space and classroom.

News and Star: The Petteril Community Panel has recently backed several initiatives

Spiral, a service offering counselling and confidence building for youngsters affected by bullying, saw an intake of £5,000.

This will allow for increased staffing following a rise in referrals to its service.

The funds provided by the panel are being directed towards grassroots community projects.

These all fulfill at least one of the panel's priorities which have been agreed upon after consultation with the community.

Responding to the recent developments, Cllr Lisa Brown, deputy leader of Cumberland Council and vice-chair of the Petteril panel, weighed in by saying: "These fantastic schemes focus on some of the more vulnerable of our residents, and look to make life easier and fairer for them - yet more examples of Community Panels’ ability to support schemes that make a big difference to the community."

More insight into the panel's activities can be found on the council's website.