Larkhall & District Volunteer Group (LDVG) has transformed its online presence with support from Business Gateway, enabling the charity to better serve its community. The organisation, founded in 1994, works to reduce social isolation by promoting health, wellbeing and connection across Lanarkshire. It offers a wide range of inclusive activities, practical services and volunteering opportunities for people in Larkhall, Stonehouse, Ashgill and Netherburn.
Tailored Support from Business Gateway
LDVG collaborated closely with senior Business Gateway adviser Craig MacFarlane, who provided tailored one-to-one support to identify opportunities for growth and long-term sustainability. During discussions, MacFarlane discovered that the security certificate on the charity’s existing website had expired, prompting a wider review of its digital presence and highlighting the need for a completely refreshed website.
To support this development, Business Gateway provided the charity with five days of fully-funded IT consultancy. This specialist support enabled LDVG to create a modern, user-friendly website that better reflects the breadth of services it offers to the local community.
Challenges with the Old Website
Previously, the website was managed externally by a volunteer, making it difficult to update content regularly. As a result, the charity faced challenges promoting its services, generating revenue and raising awareness of its activities. The outdated website also limited the organisation’s ability to showcase facilities available for hire, restricting opportunities to generate valuable income.
Impact of the New Website
The new website is sleek, modern and easy to navigate, clearly communicating LDVG’s mission, services and community impact. It also provides a platform to promote room hire opportunities and other income-generating activities, helping to strengthen the organisation’s financial sustainability. Craig MacFarlane said: “Larkhall & District Volunteer Group provides invaluable support to the local community, and it was clear that its website no longer reflected the quality and range of services offered. By accessing fully funded digital support, the charity has been able to create a professional online presence that will help raise awareness, attract new users and support future income generation.”
Sandra McCrory, charity manager (CEO) at LDVG, said: “We absolutely love the look and feel of the new website. Thanks again to everyone involved in making this a smooth transition. The new website gives us a much stronger platform to showcase what we do, connect with our community and support the future growth of the organisation.”
Business Gateway's Ongoing Role
Business Gateway continues to support organisations across Scotland with expert advice, specialist support and access to resources that help them achieve their goals and create lasting impact within their communities. For more information on how Business Gateway can help, visit bgateway.com.
