Financial Inclusion Network
FIN News: 1 April 2026
Welcome to this week's Financial Inclusion Network news
The Financial Inclusion Network is an informal group of over 250 members taken from the Public and Third Sectors which covers all areas of South Lanarkshire. This network is to share information from a wide range of themes. We hope to provide a new update each week that can be accessed by all members at any time to see what is going on in the area under the headings below. If you would like an item included within our weekly news, please complete our short online form here: https://forms.office.com/e/Ht5w7iAuFi. For further information, please email communities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk
Money is not the only problem – Food and Healthy Eating
A well-balanced diet is important to provide all the energy you need to keep active throughout the day and nutrients you need for growth and repair, helping you stay strong, healthy and help to prevent diet-related illness. If you are worrying about food there are different organisations that are able to support you. Select this section for different options that are available.
https://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/directory/182/money_is_not_the_only_problem/category/523
Improvement Service
Visit our website to see the latest news, reports and case studies as well as utilise the fascinating range of research we have available. You can also sign up to receive our monthly free online newsletter:- https://www.improvementservice.org.uk/
Free swim for all under 16’s
Free swimming is to be offered to everyone under the age of 16 across South Lanarkshire.
https://www.southlanarkshireview.scot/news/article/2907/Free_swims_for_all_under_16s
Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 Opening Ceremony
Be Part of Glasgow 2026
Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony Cast applications are now open! We’re on the lookout for 700 incredible volunteer performers.
It's your time to shine! We’re calling on volunteers to help bring Ceremonies to life and make Glasgow 2026 an Altogether Brilliant Games. From auditions and rehearsals to the live performances, this is your chance to help deliver a spectacular Games.
Whether you’re a performer, part of a community group, or simply passionate about the Games there’s a role for you:
Cast Members: Step into the spotlight and bring the Ceremonies to life through dynamic performances.
Group Members: Represent your community, cultural, or social groups and celebrate Glasgow’s diversity on a global stage.
Volunteer Athlete Marshals: Welcome Athletes from across the Commonwealth with energy, warmth and pride.
Apply here: https://www.glasgow2026.com/get-involved/casting
Deadline: 17:00 on 24 April 2026
We hope you’ll take this opportunity to apply.
Action for Children – Young Carers Service
Action for Children’s South Lanarkshire Young Carers service supports children and young people aged 8–18 who provide care for a family member. We recognise that young carers often take on significant responsibilities at home, which can impact their wellbeing, education and social life. Our service provides both practical and emotional support to help reduce this pressure and ensure young people can enjoy a positive childhood. We offer: Individual 1:1 support based on each young person’s needs, Group sessions, outings and residential trips to build friendships and reduce isolation, Opportunities to develop confidence, resilience and life skills, Support to widen access to education, helping young people overcome barriers to engagement, attendance and achievement, Support to access funding opportunities where appropriate, Opportunities for a break from caring responsibilities. We also work closely with families and partner agencies to ensure young carers are identified early and receive the right support at the right time. Referrals are welcomed from professionals and parents/carers.
https://www.southlanarkshireyoungcarers.org/
Move Forward Movement Easter Egg Hunt
Move Forward Movement Easter Egg Hunt for the kids taking place on Saturday 4 April at the John Wright Sports Centre, Calderwood Road, East Kilbride, G74 3EU running from 1pm to 3pm. For more information:
https://www.moveforwardmovement.org/
Walking group can step into the future with confidence
A walking group in Larkhall that offers a valuable chance to socialise as well as exercise will continue its trips thanks to support through the Community Wish List.
