A Cumnock charity set up by an inspirational youngster has received a vital boost to be able to spread its message.

Lochlan's Legacy was set up by Lochlan Murdoch to raise awareness of Type 1 diabetes.

The 14-year-old Robert Burns Academy pupils has embarked on numerous campaigns to bring the conditon into the spotlight, especially within football.

Now Lochlan's Legacy has been boosted by £30,000 of funding, which will allow Lochlan and his team trusty team to spread their message across Ayrshire.

A series of roadshows will aim to support those living with Type 1 diabetes in Ayrshire, as well as providing support for friends and families.

Just back from a brilliant weekend Haven Craig Tara Holiday Park Sometimes diabetes just stops you in your tracks and...

Posted by Lochlan's Legacy on Monday, 14 August 2023

The award to Lochlan’s Legacy is amongst the 24 Scottish groupssharing in a total cash boost of £2,004,741 from the Young Start fund, distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund. 

Lochlan said: “I set the charity up in 2020 when I was 11, as during lockdown, I just let go of my own care, but you never get the day off from diabetes.

"Knowing how bad it can get spurred me on to help other young people in my position who may be struggling with their diagnosis and to let them know they are not alone."

Lochlan’s mum, Lesley Murdoch, co-founder and chair of Lochlan’s Legacy, added: “The day-to-day management of Type 1 diabetes brings a multitude of struggles and it’s estimated that someone living with Type 1 diabetes has to make 180 additional decisions every day.

Cumnock Chronicle: Lochlan has done so much great work.Lochlan has done so much great work. (Image: Lochlan’s Legacy)

"For anyone, that’s a huge task, but imagine how that feels for a child - to have to be constantly aware of their health, medication, food intake, blood levels, etc – not to be able to live a carefree life like every child should.” 

The funding will also help the charity spread awareness with the help of their youth ambassadors – young people based in Ayrshire aged between 12 – 18 who are also living with Type 1 diabetes. 

The National Lottery Community Fund, Scotland Chair, Kate Still, said: “Lochlan’s Legacy is a shining example of what the Young Start fund is all about – services both for and by young people.

"Lochlan has been through so much difficulty already at such a young age and it’s inspiring to see him turn that into such strength and dedication to improving the lives of other young people.”