ACVO News June 2022

ACVO NEWS
N E W S F R O M A B E R D E E N ' S T H I R D S E C T O R
J U N E | 2 0 2 2

acvo.org.uk

CONTENTS
ACVO News
May 2022
3
8 Clan Cancer Support launch a
second art sculpture trail
18 Aberdeen says 'thank you' this
Volunteers' Week Scotland 2022!
28 A look back at Mental Health
Awareness Week 2022
P.26
CLEAN BEACH HAPPY
PEOPLE AT GREYHOPE
BAY
Short film for Volunteers' Week Scotland 2022
4
News from you and other networks
36
Volunteering
The latest from Mike Melvin and
Volunteer Aberdeen
44
Volunteering Opportunities
48
Funding
The latest funding news and
opportunities
52
Health and Social Care Updates
54
Vacancies
Latest opportunities from the third
sector in Aberdeen and beyond
56
Events, Training and Workshops
Find out what's happening soon and
how to submit your event to our
calendar
Not on the mailing list to receive
ACVO News Direct to your inbox
every fortnight? Sign up here.
Scottish Charity No: SC036845

NEWS
ACVO News
June 2022
4
News from you
and other networks
Austin, a Student at Camphill School Aberdeen Working at FRUVER Refilling Shop on Murtle Estate
Charity reveals plans for a
sustainable social enterprise to
support its students and meet
the needs of the community
The unique history and crafts of Aberdeen-based charity, Camphill
School Aberdeen, are set to be showcased to the public in a new social
enterprise hub, that will also feature an organic zero-waste farm shop
and refilling shop.

5
ACVO News
June 2022
NEWS
T
he charity, which
provides day and
residential support to
over 95 children and
young people with learning
disabilities and complex additional
support needs, has submitted plans
to Aberdeen City Council to
redevelop the Camphill Bookshop at
the opening of their Murtle estate
near Bieldside on North Deeside
Road. Named Murtle Market, it will
see the book shop transformed into
a ‘zero waste’ organic farm and
refilling shop which will also
promote the charity’s impressive
80-year history as well as
showcasing the range of different
crafts made by the young people it
supports.
Murtle Market will be a hub for
students to further their
employability and relationship
building skills all whilst promoting
the ethos of the school and
sustainable living to the wider
community.
Alex Busch, Executive Director of
Camphill School Aberdeen, said:
“We are incredibly proud to be
launching Murtle Market. We’ve
seen a significant increase in
demand for meaningful work
experience and skills development
for young people with learning
disabilities across the North East as
well as increasing demands by the
local community to shop locally and
organically. With the
ever-growing
awareness of where
our food comes
from, we hope
Murtle Market will
meet the needs of
the community while
also providing
meaningful
opportunities to our
students as part of
our Learning For Life day services.
“Our young people and staff were
involved in naming the new store and
will be involved with all aspects of the
supply chain including – growing,
packing, labelling, delivering and
serving the public at Murtle Market
which will give our students a sense of
connection and relationship to wider
community. The experience will give
our students skills and real work
opportunities that will create a
portfolio of achievements as they
transition to adulthood, which is
incredibly important to us at Camphill
School Aberdeen.”
The market will be an extension of the
school’s FRUVER refilling shop on the
estate and will enable the school to
sell own grown organic produce to the
wider community, promoting
Camphill’s ethos of reducing
emissions, waste and supporting the
circular economy. There are also plans
to extend the current onsite bike
workshop and introduce home
Architects Impressions of Camphill School Aberdeen proposed
deliveries once the market is up and
running.
Alex added: “As an organisation we want
to reduce our carbon footprint and be as
sustainable as we can be. Sourcing organic
food grown locally and seasonally, and
reducing food waste are some of the most
impactful things we can do to address
climate change.”
Social Enterprise on Deeside Road
The charity has seen a significant increase
in demand for its day and residential
services in recent years. Nationally, there
is a shortage of local and national
residential services for young people who
need a mix of education, social and
medical care. There is also a large gap in
provision available for skills development
opportunities for 16-25 year olds with
complex additional support needs.
In response to the growing need for local
support, Camphill School Aberdeen
launched a capital appeal campaign at the
start of the year to raise £10 million over
the next 10 years. The Building Futures,
Transforming Lives campaign aims to
increase the charity’s capacity by 60%.
The 10-year project will be completed in
phases, the first of which is a £3.5 million
project to build an 11-bedroom house,
with an independent living wing and
Murtle Market.
Student Carrie with Workshop Leader Emma Laing at FRUVER Refilling Shop on Estate
Currently, only 4% of adults with a
learning disability in Scotland are in
employment, according to the Fraser
Allander Institute, University of
Strathclyde. This is due to a lack of
support to identify work opportunities
and a lack of training for young people to
increase their employability skills.

NEWS
ACVO News
June 2022
6
Open Road
Creative
Workshops
As part of Refugee Festival
Scotland, Open Road's Victoria
Fifield and Sahar Abdulla from the
Grampian Regional Equality Council
will be hosting a creative writing
and art workshop for New Scots.
Aberdeen Foyer appoints
Energy Director as New Chair
of its Board of Trustees
Stuart White of Blaze Manufacturing Solutions has been appointed as Chair of
the Board of Trustees at North East charity, Aberdeen Foyer.
Stuart, a Chartered accountant with
extensive experience as a business
leader in both the energy and financial
sectors, holds the position of
Operations Director at fire safety
solutions specialist Blaze, a Balmoral
Group company.
The workshop will be structured
around the theme of home and
what home means to each
individual taking part.
The workshop, Refugee Write
(Women-only), will take place on
20th June at Aberdeen Central
Library, 11-3.00pm.
To book your free ticket, please go
to: https://bit.ly/3GkYv9j
Stuart joined The Foyer’s board in
2019, firstly in the role of Treasurer
and latterly as Vice Chair, supporting
the charity as it navigated through the
global pandemic, and has recently
taken up the reins as non-exec Chair.
Aberdeen Foyer supports over 1,600
local people a year to discover their
potential, overcome life challenges
such as poverty, employability, and
homelessness, and helps them shape
their own positive future. Stuart’s joins
as Chair during an exciting time for the
charity as it seeks to maximise access
to its vital services.
Stuart commented on his new
appointment: “I’m honoured to have
been entrusted with role of Chair at
Aberdeen Foyer. Working with the
charity’s committed team of staff,
trustees and volunteers is a great
privilege and every day I continue to
be amazed by the powerful and
valuable support the charity provides
to individuals and families within our
community.
“A lot has changed in the past two
years and, more so than ever, people in
the Northeast need the care, kindness
and encouragement that The Foyer
provides. I am hugely motivated to
build on what we have collectively
achieved as the charity continues to
maximise its impact and widen its
scope in support of vulnerable adults
and young people in Aberdeen City
and Shire.“
Leona McDermid, Chief Executive of
Aberdeen Foyer added: “Stuart brings
to The Foyer a wealth of business
acumen and practical experience that
has already benefitted the leadership
team in many ways. As we embark on
the refresh of The Foyer’s strategy and
governance, the advice and guidance
from Stuart and the other board
members will play an integral part in
how we shape our future. I’m delighted
to welcome Stuart as Chair of
Aberdeen Foyer and look forward to
working with him in his new role at
this exciting time in The Foyer’s
journey.”
Outside work, Stuart enjoys playing
golf with his wife and friends, watching
football and spending time with his
family. He is also an avid fan of
motorsport, especially classic and
vintage car events.

7
ACVO News
June 2022
NEWS
Havfram goes the extra mile in
aid of Ukrainian refugees
the people of Ukraine and we were
keen to add to that that in some way.
All of the money raised are going
directly to the charity to provide
desperately needed aid.
“This is a great way to raise funds for a
good cause, while also promoting the
many benefits of all forms of exercise.”
Danielle Fletcher-Horn, Founder of
AberNecessities, said: "We are
delighted to be welcoming families
from Ukraine, and we know that our
community will want to support the
children and young people who will
now call Aberdeen their home.
“We feel honoured to be working with
Havfram whose support will help
tremendously in enabling us to provide
the support and basic essentials that
No Child Should Go Without.
Havfram, an international
offshore energy contractor, is
supporting local charity
AberNecessities with an
ambitious fundraiser to raise money for
Ukrainian refugees being relocated to
North-east Scotland.
The Aberdeen to Kyiv virtual
walk/run/cycle fundraiser will challenge
volunteers to virtually travel the 2,100
miles between the two cities.
Throughout May, volunteers have been
asked to walk, run, or cycle enough miles
to get from Aberdeen to the Ukrainian
capital. This can include everything from
dog walks to weekly workouts. The final
week of activities will conclude at The
Gym@AIBP (formerly Aker Active) at
Dyce, which is donating the use of its
facilities and equipment to help the
volunteers complete their challenge.
All funds raised will go to
AberNecessities and will be used to
provide help and support to the
Ukrainian families arriving in the Northeast
as they settle into their new
environment.
“We are very pleased to be supporting
AberNecessities with this fundraiser,”
said Gregor Scott, Business Acquisition
Director for Havfram. “This will provide
essential items, and hopefully some
additional treats, for people who lost
everything when they had to leave their
homes.
“The people of the North-east have
been very welcoming and generous
when it comes to providing support to
These families have been through a
devastating and heartbreaking
situation; we want to make their arrival
to Aberdeen a positive experience by
showing them the true kindness and
generosity of our community by
creating a welcoming environment."
Donations are still being accepted and
can be made online via
justgiving.com/fundraising/havframukr
anianfundcommittee
This fundraiser is the latest in
Havfram’s programme of corporate
social and community engagement.
Earlier this year the company
sponsored new away strips for a U12
girls’ football team in Tyne and Wear,
England.
AberNecessities provides
disadvantaged families with the
essential and basic necessities that no
child should go without. Since it was
launched in 2019, it has distributed
hundreds of thousands of items to
families and children across Aberdeen
and Aberdeenshire.

NEWS
ACVO News
June 2022
8
Hare Wo Go! Scottish Cancer Charity
Launches Second Art Sculpture Trail
Clan Cancer Support, the north-east’s leading cancer support charity, announces that
it is has partnered with Wild in Art for a second time to bring an exciting new art trail
to the north-east, Moray, Orkney and Shetland.
F
ollowing on from the
success of their Light the
North Trail, which raised
over £324,000 on auction
night alone, 40 hare
hare sculptures designed and created by
some of the country’s most talented
artists will be seen ‘hare, there and
everywhere’ as people search for and
discover the striking sculptures across
the North East of Scotland, Orkney and
Shetland.
The Big Hop Trail will take the public on
another cultural tour of the north-east
and the islands from July to September
in 2023, letting them discover and
engage with the area. The trail is
currently the only one of its kind
planned for Scotland in 2023. The
sculpture trail will also coincide with
Clan’s 40th anniversary next year, with
40 sculptures being the focal point to
celebrate the charity’s commitment to
supporting people affected by cancer,
their family, carers and friends.
Clan’s Chief Executive, Fiona Fernie,
says, “We’re delighted to have
partnered with Wild in Art again to
bring our next trail to life for individuals
and families across Scotland to enjoy.
Clan has been supporting people for
almost 40 years, and we simply couldn’t
pass up the opportunity to take on
another trail as we continue to
financially recover post-covid and
knowing that monies raised from the
trail auction will make such a difference
to the lives of people affected by a
cancer diagnosis. We chose the hare
sculpture as they are an indigenous
animal found in all parts of Clan’s
geography. Hares navigate rough and
difficult terrain in order to survive,
much like our clients during their cancer
journey, and are adaptable, like our
services team who deliver personcentred
support to anyone affected by
cancer. Most importantly, hares have
long ears and incredible hearing. What
better way to depict our lifeline
listening and support service and the
importance of being heard.”

9
ACVO News
June 2022
NEWS
Fiona continues, “With over 20,000
people living with cancer across the
region and people living longer with
cancer, Clan’s support is more vital than
ever. We provide the emotional and
practical support needed to ensure that
people’s wellbeing needs are taken care
of at all stages of their cancer journey.
We are proud to once again bring an
exciting trail to communities that link
with Clan and hope that The Big Hop
Trail and our partnership with Wild in Art
will allow us to help even more people
affected by cancer.”
Since 2008 Wild in Art has animated
cities across the world, including
Manchester, Auckland, Sydney, Cape
Town and São Paulo and worked with
partners to create trails across Scotland
including the Clyde mascot trail for the
2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow,
Wild Dolphins in Aberdeen, Oor Wullie’s
BIG Bucket Trail, and more recently the
Lighthouse trail in the North East of
Scotland.
Wild in Art co-founder and managing
director Charlie Langhorne comments,
“We’re very proud to debut the newest
addition to our sculpture portfolio and
introduce Clan’s second trail – The Big
Hop. The sculpture trail is the ideal way
to get out and about with friends and
family to see more of the place in which
you live and learn about local history. As
well as being educational, the sculptures
are beautiful, each one having been
lovingly created by a local artist. Each
individual sculpture tells a different
story, and residents and tourists enjoy
following the entire trail using the trail
map and app. From schools to
community groups, local people have got
behind the trails, and raised millions of
pounds for local causes.
“Wild in Art passionately champions the
importance of art for everybody, and the
social, cultural and education benefits it
provides. The Big Hop Trail is an exciting
project for us as it will be interesting to
see the people of the
Fiona Fernie, CEO of Clan, and Sarah Harvey, of Wild in Art unveil the newest
Clan art trail sculpture.
involved with these events so it’s
north-east of Scotland interact with
good to be able to be associated
the sculptures of Clan’s second trail.”
with the event, not just from a
Speaking of his continued
business awareness perspective
sponsorship of Clan’s trail, Scott for me but also knowing how
Birnie of The Good Sleep Company in much the trail benefits Clan, does
Banff, says, “It was great to be
so much good and supports
involved with Clan’s original ‘Light individuals and families in our
the North’ trail, there was such a local community.”
buzz about it all. It was also so good
For further information on The
to be able to attend the finale auction
Big Hop Trail visit
to buy back the sculpture we had
www.clancancersupport.org/fund
sponsored, as it was one of the first
raising/the-big-hop
in-person events I had attended postcovid.
For further information on
sponsorship of the hare
I am delighted to show my support
sculptures or to express interest
once again and be the first official
in the project email
sponsor for The Big Hop Trail. I didn’t
thebighop@clancancersupport.org
know what Clan did before I was
or call 01224 647000

NEWS
ACVO News
June 2022
10
Volunteer at
Childline base
in Aberdeen
awarded for
commitment
to children
A Childline volunteer counsellor
has been awarded an NSPCC
People Award for going above and
beyond to help children and young
people.
Louise Williams from Stonehaven,
Aberdeenshire won the Star
Performer Award for Making an
Impact at the NSPCC People
Awards 2022. Louise won the
category out of several volunteers
across the UK for going above and
beyond in her commitment to
Childline, especially during the
pandemic.
Louise began volunteering four and
a half years ago at the Childline
base in Aberdeen and has
accumulated more than 2,000
volunteering hours during this
time. In addition to counselling, she
has volunteered her time for admin
and during the pandemic took on
several extra responsibilities,
including recruiting and supporting
new volunteers joining the team.
Kerri Stewart, Volunteer Coordinator
for Childline Aberdeen,
said: “Thank you to Louise for what
was a truly solid and committed
piece of work, crucially bringing in
new volunteers and supporting
them through training and beyond.
“The many people who have joined
our team in the last two years will
recognise Louise as one of the
familiar faces who supported them
throughout their months of
onboarding.
“Louise jumped in without
hesitation, ready to ensure that we
continued recruiting. She has given
a tremendous number of hours
both in working from home and
continuing with her counselling at
the base. Well done, Louise, we are
so pleased to see your hard work
recognised by our service and the
NSPCC!”
Louise Williams
Louise said: “I’m really honoured to
receive this award from the NSPCC
and be recognised for ‘Making an
Impact’ and for being part of the
great team of staff and volunteers
in Aberdeen. We have all worked
extremely hard to be there for
children and young people, even
more so during the last two
difficult years. Let’s continue to be
there for children and young
people when they need us!”
Whilst there has been a great
number of people who have
volunteered during the pandemic,
the Childline base in Aberdeen
continues to call for more
volunteers to help them continue
to be there for children and young
people.
To sign up to an online volunteer
information meeting, contact the
Volunteer Co-ordinator in the
Childline Aberdeen office on
01224 973036 or email
kerri.stewart@nspcc.org.uk

Aberdeen Science
Centre has been
awarded 5-Star
Quality Assurance
(QA) status by Visit
Scotland
It becomes only the second visitor attraction in the
city to hold a five-star award.
Aberdeen Science Centre, said: “We
This prestigious award, the highest
awarded under the QA scheme,
comes less than 18 months after the
centre reopened to the public after
undergoing a transformational
£6million redevelopment.
The QA Scheme is a benchmark for
exceptional quality within the tourism
industry and operates across
accommodation, visitor attractions
and food sectors.
Bryan Snelling, chief executive of
are absolutely thrilled that Aberdeen
Science Centre and the contribution
it makes to life in North-east
Scotland has been recognised in this
way by VisitScotland. The five-star
rating is more than just the ‘stars on
the door’, it’s about the entire visitor
experience.
NEWS
"A lot of people worked very hard to
make this happen and to bring us to
where we are today and we are
proud that our staff have been
recognised for their enthusiasm and
commitment to engaging with every
visitor to make their trip to the centre
ACVO News
June 2022
memorable.
"This award is a testament to what
has been achieved in a short space of
time. The science centre is a fantastic
asset for the city and is instrumental
in bringing science and the STEM
subjects to life for people of all ages.“
Aberdeen Science Centre has
become a highly popular destination
for people of all ages since reopening
the doors of the Tramsheds on
Constitution Street in November
2020, after a major project to create
an aspirational science centre which
reflects the STEM priorities for both
industry and education.
12

13
ACVO News
June 2022
NEWS
Help make life better in Aberdeen:
Aberdeen Citizens Advice Bureau
reopens its offices and launches a new
Supporters group
Having continued to provide services to clients throughout the COVID-19
pandemic by using e-mail or telephone-based advice the, Aberdeen Citizens
Advice Bureau (ACAB) has once again opened its doors to the public.
During the period of closure,
the Bureau has been
expanded and refurbished to
provide a better
environment for clients. In-person
appointments will also now ensure them
a better experience than the previous
drop-in service.
ACAB receives an average of over 200
contacts a week from people seeking
help with a wide range of problems
including debt, housing, benefit claims,
employment disputes, consumer
complaints, fraud and relationship
breakdown.
The charity is operated by 27 staff and
52 trained volunteers and offers a ‘onestop
shop’ so that all the client’s issues
can be dealt with within the Bureau and
they are not passed from one
organisation to another. In 2021-22 the
Bureau helped 3,921 clients, achieving
£4,832,945 of financial benefit for
them.
ACAB is an independent charity and has
been delivering free, confidential and
independent advice for over 80 years.
The Bureau receives funding from a
range of sources including Aberdeen
City Council’s Common Good Fund as
well as a variety of charitable trusts,
including the Robertson Trust, the
Hunter Foundation and Macmillan
Cancer Support. As a member of
Citizens Advice Scotland, ACAB
participates in the local delivery of
national projects such as Help to Claim
which helps people apply for Universal
Credit.
The new Supporters organisation
encourages individuals and companies
to sign up on the ACAB website for
news about the Bureau and to support
its work through donations, fundraising
events and volunteering. The new
Supporters group is inviting members of
the public to support ACAB’s continued
provision of free, confidential,
independent advice at this time of rising
need.
Chair, Valerie Maehle, said,
‘Anybody, from any walk of life can find
themselves in need of advice. With
more need for advice than ever and a
challenging environment for funding
post-Covid, people can really help to
make life better in Aberdeen by
becoming a Supporter of the Bureau.
Your support can help to ensure that
advice will be there for those who need
it, when they need it, by going to our
website and signing up as an individual
or corporate Supporter.’

NEWS
ACVO News
June 2022
14
Charity ceilidh helps reel in funds for local causes
bp Coast 2 Coast charity bike ride aims to hit £2m milestone this year
Cycling enthusiasts from bp
swapped their trainers for
dancing shoes as part of a
fundraising drive to raise
£200,000 for four north-east charities.
The Coast 2 Coast ceilidh took place at
The Chester Hotel on Saturday, May 21,
with all proceeds split between charities
Aberdeenshire North Foodbank,
AberNecessities, Camphill School
Aberdeen and Maggie’s.
The ceilidh was organised by bp’s Coast
2 Coast cycling team – a group of 65
current and former bp employees who
will ride more than 250 miles from Ayr
to Aberdeen in three days over the
Queen’s Jubilee weekend.
The bp Coast 2 Coast bike ride has
raised around £1.8million for local
charities by cycling across Scotland
annually since 2008. Now in its
thirteenth year, the riders are aiming to
hit the £2million total fundraising
milestone, with funding from the ceilidh
event contributing to the total.
Jon Turnbull retired from bp in 2017
following 38 years with the energy
company. He was involved in the
creation of Coast 2 Coast and has taken
part in every challenge since.
Prior to the charity ceilidh, he said: “The
Coast 2 Coast cycle has grown from
around 20 participants in its first year to
being a much-loved annual staff event
which has raised a huge amount for
charities close to the hearts of bp
colleagues.
“With COVID causing a setback for so
many fundraising activities recently, we
look forward to welcoming guests to the
ceilidh at The Chester for what we’re
sure will be a brilliant evening in aid of
four inspirational local charities. It’s the
perfect opportunity to get together
ahead of taking on what we’re sure will
be a challenging, but rewarding, cycle.”
The challenge is open to cyclists of all
abilities with individuals covering their
own accommodation and food costs.
Each cyclist has a fundraising target of
£1,000 with participants able to
nominate a charity to benefit from the
amount raised. All fundraising money
raised by bp employees is matched by
the bp Foundation – doubling the value
of any contributions.
Katie Butler who is a senior accounting
manager for bp was diagnosed with
ocular (eye) cancer in 2019. As part of
her treatment Katie was supported by
Maggie’s in Aberdeen, the charity she’ll
be cycling in aid of as she takes on the
challenge for the first time this year.
She said: “While my diagnosis and
treatment took place in Glasgow, it was
Maggie’s Aberdeen that helped me deal
with cancer and to heal. What I found at
Maggie’s was a beautiful space where I
could process my emotions, support for
myself and my family and specialist staff
who took me from a tearful, fearful
person to someone who was able to ask
questions and face the answers.
“I’m nervous and excited about the
upcoming Coast 2 Coast challenge.
Cycling with reduced visibility isn’t easy
but I’m incredibly grateful to have the
opportunity to take part and in doing so
I hope to raise awareness of the amazing
support offered by the Maggie’s team,
who continue to be a lifeline to myself
and many others affected by cancer.”
The Maggie's Centre in Aberdeen
To sponsor cyclists taking part in the
challenge please select your preferred
cause and click the charity below.
AberNecessities
Maggie's
North Aberdeenshire Foodbank
Camphill Schools

15
ACVO News
June 2022
NEWS
Aberdeen IT company make essential children’s
charity donation
our programmes in Aberdeen.
n Aberdeen IT managed
services company has
donated a substantial sum to
Aa local children’s charity for
the purchase of two crucial life-saving
devices.
Tycom, headquartered on Queens Road,
have been a long-time supporter of
Denis Law Legacy Trust and their latest
contribution will allow the organisation
to purchase two defibrillators and the
related training necessary for all
operational staff members to both
understand its need and how to use it, if
necessary.
This now ensures that every van that is
operational at Streetsport sessions, the
charity’s flagship programme run in
partnership with Robert Gordon
University, will contain a defibrillator.
The programme attracts hundreds of
young participants each week who take
part in free sport and creative activity.
Denis Law Legacy Trust had already
been donated one defibrillator from the
Kacey Seivwright Fund, a fundraising
effort launched in memory of Kacey, a
young girl in Aberdeen who lost her life
suddenly last year. The fund aimed to
ensure that all local kids clubs and
schools have access to their own
defibrillators.
Each staff member that’s employed by
the programme will now be adequately
trained in when and how to use the
devices. In addition, a vinyl will be
imprinted on each vehicle so that the
wider community know that it contains
a defibrillator.
Alistair Findlater, Managing Director,
Tycom, said: “We are really proud to
support Denis Law Legacy Trust and all
the hard work they do for young people
around Aberdeen through their
Streetsport programme.
“It is our pleasure to
extend this backing
through a donation
which we hope will
significantly help to
increase the safety of
youngsters in the city.”
Mark Williams, Chief
Operating Officer, Denis
Law Legacy Trust, said:
“Thanks to Tycom for
their generosity and
continued support for
“The legacy created by Kacey and her
family shouldn’t be underestimated and
thanks to them and to Tycom, we’re
now ensuring young people from all
over the city are enjoying themselves in
safer environments.”
Tycom has also provided the funding for
a Tootoot subscription, is a safeguarding
app that allows staff to confidentially
and in real-time, report any issues which
may arise.
The firm additionally helps the Trust by
providing regular meeting space and
voluntary hours when it comes to
internal fundraising and finance.
Henry Thom, Technology Alignment Manager, Tycom; Lewis Walker,
Communication & Marketing Officer, DLLT; Isabel Corsar, Director and
Company Secretary, Tycom
Free online Climate Emergency Training for people
across Scotland The online Climate Emergency Training Communication pack
takes place in May and June 2022. And
About the online Climate Emergency it provides opportunities for anyone
Training
living in Scotland over the age of 25 to
understand the climate emergency and
Working with Skills Development
respond to the risks, opportunities and
Scotland, Keep Scotland Beautiful has
responsibilities ahead on their way to
developed an exciting programme of
becoming certified as Carbon Literate.
accredited Climate Emergency Training
to help upskill Scotland’s workforce with
the knowledge required to move
towards a net zero society.
The communications pack contains a
website news story and suggested text
for newsletters and emails. It also
contains social media content and tags,
plus graphics.
You can download the communications
pack at:
www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/celsco
mmspack

Each year the ALLIANCE host the Self
Management Awards which celebrate
examples of good practice and promote
a range of innovative self management
work that exists all over Scotland. The
Self Management Awards create an
opportunity:
To promote self management activity
across Scotland through the
ALLIANCE.
For people and organisations
championing self management to
spread their learning and promote
their work.
Ukrainian Donations Request
Aberdeen city is continuing to welcome the arrival of Ukrainian families. Aberdeen City Council staff and partners are
continuing to work alongside local volunteers to prepare accommodation for families.
We have had an overwhelming response from the people in Aberdeen so far – thank you! However we are still low
on certain items, so are recirculating this revised specific request to enable us to finish furnishing properties. Below is
a list of items that we are still in need of.
NEWS
ACVO News
June 2022
The Alliance Self Management
Awards 2022 open for
nominations until 20 June
Do you know someone making a difference for self management in Scotland?
Nominate them now for a Self Management Award.
To provide learning of self
management approaches across
Scotland that can help feed into the
development and delivery of
services.
For people and organisations to be
recognised for their work around self
management.
This year the award categories are:
Self Management in the Community
Self Management Resource of the
Year
Digital Innovator Self Management
Award – in partnership with the
ALLIANCE Digital Hub
Self Management Champion of the
Year – in partnership with Humans
of Scotland
Volunteer-Led Self Management
Project of the Year
Sensory Loss: Positive Self
Management – In partnership with
the Scottish Sensory Hub
Self Management through the Arts
Closing date is 12pm on 20 June.
16
We are very low on:
European plugs
Televisions
Large pans
Microwaves
Blankets
Clothes horses
We would also gratefully receive:
TV stands – medium/large size
Irons and ironing boards
Kitchen bins
Rugs
Photo frames
Wall and freestanding mirrors –
medium/large size
Hairdryers
If you can help out please contact a member of the Community Learning & Development Team during working hours, Monday –
Friday on 01224 291874. Outwith these hours there will be the facility to leave a message and someone from the Team will get
back to you.
Alternatively you can get in touch via email to communities@aberdeencity.gov.uk
All donations will be very welcome and gratefully received. However to ensure we meet current safety regulations, we are asking
for new electrical goods and new/nearly new other items.
We have storage space and will arrange a suitable drop-off appointment with you. This is to maximise staff time and volunteer
resources and due to the extremely tight timeframes and sensitive nature of this situation.
Thank you for your continued support.

ACVO News
June 2022
18
Voluntee
2022: Aber
On behalf of the board of ACVO, I would like to thank all of
Aberdeen's wonderful volunteers who give so selflessly for the
charities, organisations, community groups, and causes of our
city. You all generously give others your greatest asset, your time,
and in doing so you make such an important and profound impact
on the lives of so many people across Aberdeen. To me, you are
Aberdeen's greatest asset, and the board of ACVO thank you all
for making such an important difference to the lives of thousands
of our citizens.
Paul O'Connor MBE, Chair of ACVO
On behalf of all of the team at ACVO, I would like to
thank everyone who has been involved in volunteering in
the city throughout the year. Without your support, our
work would be so much harder and less fun. You have
brought fantastic skills and enthusiasm which have made
a difference to the lives of many in the city.
Maggie Hepburn, Chief Executive ACVO
Volunteers Week is the perfect time to say thank you to all the
tremendous volunteers in Aberdeen and across the country
who provide so much help, support and make such a positive
difference for people and communities. Along, with all the
great volunteer involving organisations in Aberdeen, ACVO is
delighted to join in national Volunteers Week and say a big
thank you to all volunteers in our fantastic city for all you do.
Thank you volunteers.
Mike Melvin, Volunteer Co-ordinator at ACVO
When you reflect on the efforts of v
makes you so proud of our people a
will be absolutely crucial as we mov
those folks who have gone above an
over the past few years deserve eve
gratitude that comes their way – th
Kevin Stewa

ACVO News
19
June 2022
rs' Week
deen says
Inchgarth community centre relies heavily on the good-will,
dedication, and skills of our vast group of 165 volunteers
across our programme. Without these amazing volunteers,
Inchgarth simply cannot provide the essential services and
opportunities for the community and those who need us the
most. Volunteers make a tremendous difference to many
people's lives and are the glue which binds our centre and
community together. On behalf of Inchgarth community
centre, may I thank everyone past and present, and those yet
to join us, for making such a powerful difference.
Jules Ory, Volunteer Coordinator, Inchgarth
Community Centre
olunteers here in Aberdeen, it
nd our city. Our voluntary sector
e forward from the pandemic and
d beyond for our communities
ry single plaudit and message of
ank you to you all.
rt MSP, Aberdeen Central
We simply would not be where we are as a city
if it were not for all the volunteers who put in
hundreds of hours throughout the year to
make a positive difference to our communities
and the lives of others and for that they must
be commended. Volunteers do a massive
amount of work, which can sometimes go
unnoticed, so I am incredibly pleased to be
able to recognise all that volunteers across
Aberdeen do on this years Volunteers Week."
Jackie Dunbar MSP, Aberdeen
Donside

ACVO News
June 2022
20
Volunteers’ Week is a time to thank every
volunteer. Volunteers improve our society
through countless contributions each year and
at time of crisis, they make our services more
resilient. Within every local community,
volunteering takes place formally, through the
incredible work of organisations and groups and
also informally through great acts of kindness,
between individuals (who are not friends and
family). Thank you all, for your volunteering.
Alan Stevenson, CEO, Volunteer
Scotland
Grateful is an understatement. We are
thankful beyond words for what our volunteers
have done and continue to do for
Abernecessities and the children across our city
and shire. It truly is because of your
unwavering dedication that our work is
possible - we would be lost without you all. The
passion and kindness we see in each and every
one of our volunteers is truly inspiring. Our
volunteers are the backbone of our operation
and you deserve to be celebrated every day.
From the bottom of our hearts - thank you.
Michelle Herd and Danielle
Flecher-Horn, Founder,
Abernecessities
Future Choices has been running now for 14 years
and at the heart of the success is down to the
incredible and dedicated team of volunteers. We
couldn't do what we do without our volunteers. In
my experience, most volunteers in general don't
look for recognition or any awards or special
treatment purely because they think, them doing
what they do is enough but it's vital that all our
volunteers contributions are recognised through
National Volunteers Week because they do
matter as without them, nothing would happen.
We say it every year simply because we sincerely
mean it - THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS.
David Forbes, Chair, Future Choices
We know people and community groups across
Aberdeen did a lot to help out their neighbours
and communities in the recent storms and bad
weather, and during covid in the last couple of
years – from a simple check on elderly neighbours,
to fetching shopping, or helping to grit pavements.
However you have helped – thank you, it is really
appreciated by ourselves and partners such as the
police, Aberdeen Health and Social Care
Partnership, and SSE. Thank you!
Fiona Mann, Emergency Planning,
Resilience & Civic Lead, Aberdeen
City Council and Aberdeen City
Community Resilience Working
Group

ACVO News
21
June 2022
Advocacy Service Aberdeen would like to take this
opportunity during Volunteers Week to thank all
their volunteers, past and present, for the time,
dedication and commitment they have given to the
service. It really does make a difference! Last year
the volunteer team contributed a collective 481.5
hours to the service.
Joanne Grant, Volunteer
Coordinator/Advocacy Worker,
Advocacy Service Aberdeen
On behalf of everyone at Denis Law
Legacy Trust and our Streetsport
programme, we want to say a huge
thank you to all of our fantastic volunteers.
Each and every one of them are vital to the
success of what we do and for them to
dedicate so many hours to us and the young
people of Aberdeen is simply amazing.
Lewis Walker, Denis Law Legacy
Trust
Thank you to all of our shmu
volunteers. Your commitment to our
communities and shmu is incredible
and makes a difference to so many.
Thank you for making shmu an
amazing place to be.
Tracy Ewing, Volunteer
Coordinator, SHMU
A huge thank you to our wonderful volunteers who
have truly stepped up to help vulnerable clients.
Supporting clients to remain independent in their
own home, providing transport to get to essential
appointments and assisting with shopping are just
a few examples of the support our volunteers
provide. Always with a friendly smile and a chance
to chat our volunteers can brighten up someone’s
day. This past year our volunteers have supported
NHS Grampian with a transport discharge service
to help get patients safely home. We look forward
to continuing to work with our family of dedicated
volunteers. Happy Volunteers Week!
Karen Fong, Service Manager, RVS -
Royal Voluntary Service
Thank you to all of our volunteers, new and existing, for being such a vital part of our service. Our
ever-growing service relies on the amazing support of our befrienders, group and event volunteers,
and you are all so adaptable to the change that happens so often. As we continue to rise out of the
pandemic, we look forward to seeing you all and catching up together. Thank you for the support
you give to the young carers in Aberdeen City, and the joy you bring to them, and the experiences
you share with them.
Jacqui and the whole Barnardo’s Aberdeen Young Carers Team

ACVO News
June 2022
22
We have a fantastic group of volunteers at
Bonnymuir Green Community Trust and we
cannot thank them enough for their enthusiasm
and commitment. Whether they help out in the
garden or with the apiary, serve in our volunteer
run café, sit on the Board of Trustees, do odd jobs,
provide baking or help track visitor numbers, they
are all vital to the running of the project and we
appreciate every one of them. Volunteers Week is a
chance to express our gratitude for all that they do
and celebrate their amazing contribution.
Liz Brown, Centre Coordinator,
Bonnymuir Green Community Trust
Volunteers week is the perfect opportunity to
take a few moments to thank and encourage all
volunteers across the city. Community Councils
are active within their local communities making
them a better place to live and work. They are
involved in a variety of projects including care
packages for those in need, festive lights,
community gardens, litter picks, community
paths, planters/hanging baskets and rarely do
they get the thanks or credit for this important
work. During the pandemic, community councils
joined other volunteers to make sure that fellow
residents were safe and had the supplies that
they needed. I am always amazed at how much
community councils achieve for their
communities whether on their own or by working
closely with other local groups and agencies.
Keep up the good work and thank you for your
dedication to your communities.
Karen Finch, Community Council
Liaison Officer
This Volunteer Week I'd like to take the
opportunity to say a huge thank you to each
and every one of our wonderful volunteers!
They are the backbone of everything we do
at Aberdeen Arts Centre and we truly
couldn't open our doors every night without
them. The commitment, hard work and
enthusiasm every member of our
volunteering team gives us is so appreciated
and after a difficult couple of years due to
Covid-19 restrictions we're so excited to
continue to welcome audiences back to our
community focussed venue together!
Stephanie Walls, Volunteer
Coordinator, Aberdeen Arts
Centre
We would like to express our sincere
thanks and appreciation to our wonderful
team of volunteers. Their commitment,
drive and enthusiasm helps to keep the
wheels of Somebody Cares turning on a
daily basis. They fill many roles and offer
many skills, and always with a sense of
team spirit. They are the essence of
Somebody Cares and contribute greatly
to the client experience, we quite simply
couldn’t do it without them. Happy
Volunteers Day to all who volunteer their
time to help us help our city.
Alison Topley, Chief Operating
Officer, Somebody Cares SCIO

ACVO News
23
June 2022
None of what has been accomplished thus far
would have been possible without the efforts of
our brilliant and enthusiastic band of
volunteers. FRESH Community Wellness SCIO
give a massive thank you to everyone who has
played a part so far. So, thank you again to all
of our volunteers during Volunteers Week!
Sam Raion, Chairperson, FRESH
Community Wellness
Grampian Opportunities would like to thank
all the tremendous Volunteers who offer their
time and support and make such a positive
difference to all of Grampian Opportunities
Projects and the people and communities who
are involved in these projects. Grampian
Opportunities are delighted to join in the
National Volunteers Week and would like to
say a big thank you to all volunteers within our
fantastic Service. Thank You to all our
Volunteers who have supported Grampian
Opportunities over the years and continue to
support the service and their community.
Tracey Harrison, Grampian
Opportunities
Volunteers’ Week is a great
opportunity for all of us at
AbilityNet to say a massive
thank you to our amazing team
of tech volunteers for giving up
their spare time to support
people during a time when
technology has never been so
important.
Chris Grant, Community
Relationship Officer,
AbilityNet
A huge well done and thank you to all our
volunteers at The Allotment Market Stall. We
are looking forward to our vegetable stalls
starting for an amazing 10th season in July, all
thanks to your hard work and commitment. In
addition our new market garden has got off to
a cracking start and we want to give a warm
welcome to our new team members there.
Your contribution makes a big difference
encouraging growing and eating healthy local
veg. Good Job!
Greg and the TAMS team
On behalf of the whole team at TLC, we would like to thank all our volunteers and those that
have supported us this year and over the last 20. We would not have been able to support
and meet the needs of the people we have in our community if it were not for you, the public.
Whether it’s been through volunteering with our food bank service (in partnership with the
Trussell Trust) or with our befriending service, our volunteers are who make it happen day in,
and day out. We are so pleased to join in with this year’s Volunteers Week to publicly express
our gratitude in this way to our wonderful volunteers! Thank you!
Jonny Astill, Development Manager, TLC

ACVO News
June 2022
24
We've all come through an harrowing pandemic
over the past two years. Aberdeen Linking Lives
(run by The Bridge – registered charity number:
SC050930) has made a significant impact in the
lives of those lonely and socially isolated in our
communities. We could not have done such an
amazing feat without our dedicated, resilient and
outstanding volunteers. I deeply express our
gratitude and appreciation to our volunteers
across the North East of Scotland for their time,
social skills and sense of community. Our charity,
The Bridge and Board of Trustees are most
grateful. Happy Volunteers Week
Shola Ajide, Aberdeen Linking Lives
(run by The Bridge)
We want to say a huge thank you to all
CHAS volunteers. Volunteers are integral
to CHAS. Without them we simply
couldn’t provide high-quality care for
children and families across Scotland. In
Aberdeen we have volunteers who visit
families in their own homes. We also have
volunteers who are raising vital funds for
our services. We are determined to be
there for families going through the
hardest of times and we couldn’t do it
without all CHAS volunteers. Thank you!
Fiona Harvey, Head of
Volunteering, CHAS
Thank you to all our amazing volunteers who have worked tirelessly and with
dedication to supporting all those young people struggling out there right now.
During a difficult time for everyone, we are so grateful on behalf of those children
that you have continued to be there and make the incredible difference that you do
Kerri Stewart, Volunteer Coordinator and the staff team at
Childline Aberdeen

e part of
the collective voice
of the
Third Sector in
Aberdeen
Become a member of ACVO
from as little as £25 per year
applications open now
apply online at
acvo.org.uk/membership
We are stronger with you behind us.

ACVO News
June 2022
26
Greyhope Bay bring volunteers together
to look after the coast while improving
personal wellbeing with their project
Clean Beach
Happy People

27
ACVO News
June 2022
Greyhope Bay, a charitable organisation based in Aberdeen, not
only offer dolphin watching from their café and community
space at Torry Battery, but also provide the opportunity for
volunteers to come together to clean the coasts with their ‘Clean Beach
Happy People’ project.
Working in partnership with East Grampian Coastal Partnership - Turning
the Plastic Tide, members of the public are invited to spend a couple of
hours together clearing litter from the coastline that surrounds the
Greyhope Bay Centre with a special focus on enjoying the positive effects of
time well spent in the great outdoors.
The beach cleaning programme received support from the Scottish
Government’s Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund which was
distributed in Aberdeen by ACVO. As well as bringing benefit to the natural
environment, Turning the Plastic Tide has done extensive evaluations of
supported beach cleaning and have concluded that one of the top takeaways
from the experience of beach cleaning as a group is a sense of
wellbeing and positive mental outlook from purposeful activity and
community connection.
As part of our Volunteers’ Week 2022 campaign, the ACVO team joined
volunteers and organisers to experience Clean Beach Happy People first
hand, to breathe some fresh coastal air and to see the huge positive impact
the project is making on the Torry area and on the wellbeing of those who
take part. Find out more in our Volunteers’ Week 2022 film!
The Greyhope Bay Centre which opened in April 2022 is an "off-grid" ecofacility
built by converting shipping containers and forms part of 5-year plan
to establish Torry Battery as a vibrant destination in Aberdeen.
More information about the organisation and details about taking part in
the next beach clean can be found at greyhopebay.com

ACVO News
June 2022
28
A look back at
Mental Health
Awareness Week
9-15 May 2022
M
ental Health Awareness Week this year, focussed on raising
awareness of the impact of loneliness on our mental
wellbeing and the practical steps we can take to address it.
Loneliness is affecting more and more of us in the UK and has had a
huge impact on our physical and mental health during the pandemic.
Our connection to other people and our community is fundamental to
protecting our mental health and we need to find better ways of
tackling the epidemic of loneliness. We can all play a part in this.
To support the campaign we took a closer look at projects operating in
Aberdeen which bring communities together and alleviate the impact
of loneliness.
The projects featured were supported by the Scottish Government’s
Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund which was distributed in
Aberdeen by ACVO.
Learn more and listen to all stories at acvo.org.uk/mha-week22

29
ACVO News
June 2022
32

ACVO News
June 2022
30
Citymoves Dance Agency
Dance for
Parkinson's
Mo's story
C
itymoves Dance Agency is a
registered charity who provide
dance classes for all ages and
abilities. Having suffered an
extended time of isolation due to the
pandemic, Citymoves sought funding to
support their Dance for Parkinson’s
programme, to support the social, mental
and physical wellbeing of those living with
this condition in the city.
Dance for Parkinson’s is a national
programme running throughout Scotland,
initiated by Scottish Ballet and Dance
Base. All tutors receive training specific to
working with those living with Parkinson’s.
This year thanks to the Communities
Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund,
Citymoves were able to not only fund the
class in their studio but also an additional
class in the community to reach more
participants and their carers in Aberdeen.
Parkinson’s can range from a mild to
debilitating condition where a reduced
level of physical activity can have a
significant effect on strength, mobility and
posture. Dance for Parkinson’s aims to
encourage those living with this condition
to gain muscle strength and mobility
through the movement of dance. As well
as promoting good mental health,
participants keep physically active through
these classes.
Additionally, and just as importantly, the
project acts as a community hub for those
living with Parkinson’s. This frequent,
weekly socialisation helps alleviate feelings
of loneliness and social isolation amongst
the dancers. They get to communicate
with other like-minded, like-bodied
people, find similarities in their situations
and seek advice in relation to their
condition.
Mo has always loved dancing and
has danced all her life. Dance for
Parkinson’s classes have brought
her closer to others and she finds
the classes a good way to meet
people, socialise and to feel less
isolated.
Mo found the lockdown to be a
challenge at times but was
grateful when the classes moved
online. However she is now glad to
be back at Citymoves to see
others in person.
Listen to Mo's story

31
ACVO News
June 2022
Amy's Story
Amy is one of the Dance Development
Managers at Citymoves and is the lead tutor
for Dance for Parkinson’s. She started as a
volunteer for the class around six years ago
where she trained alongside other tutors.
She feels the main aim of the group is to let
people know they are not alone and provide
a space for authentic interpersonal
relationships to grow. She notices positive
physical and emotional differences in all who
take part and loves to be able to make a
difference to people’s lives.
Listen to Amy's story
Kate has only just started attending the
Dance for Parkinson’s classes but has been
made to feel very welcome by the
community.
Kate's Story
As someone recently diagnosed with
Parkinson’s, Kate tries to keep as active as
possible to avoid her muscles stiffening and
seizing up; the Dance for Parkinson’s project
helps Kate to keep physically active while
being able to connect with others sharing her
condition.
Listen to Kate's story

ACVO News
June 2022
32
Aberdeen Methodist Church
Rev James Garnett’s Story
Open
House
Open House is a project which
aims to create community by
providing a welcoming,
inclusive and accessible space
for all to attend in the heart of
Aberdeen’s City Centre.
Hosted by Aberdeen Methodist Church
on Crown Terrace, the programme
welcomes attendees every weekday
between 2pm and 4pm. They offer
refreshments, hot drinks, purposeful
activities and, most importantly, a safe and
inviting space for anyone who would like
to join.
In addition to bringing in people to run
workshops and activities, Open House
encourage those who attend to take a
lead in planning and leading workshops
relating to their interests. This contributes
towards building individual confidence
and fostering involvement within a
flourishing community.
Open House stimulates necessary
conversation amongst a variety of
individuals where the main aim is to
prevent and address problems associated
with poor mental health and loneliness.
Those who attend may have experienced
recent challenges with substances or
mental health, and a simple chat with
someone can make a positive impact on
their lives.
Stories can be shared within a calm, warm
environment and people can take their
mind off any worries for a couple of
hours. Everyone is welcome to Open
House where there is always someone to
talk to.
Open House is supported by the Scottish
Government Communities Mental Health
& Wellbeing Fund, distributed in
Aberdeen by ACVO.
Rev James Garnett is the Minister at Aberdeen Methodist Church.
He was inspired to establish Open House as he is passionate about
tackling social isolation within the city and surrounding communities
through the process of bringing people together.
As well seeing the sessions as benefit for those who attend, Rev
Garnett views Open House as an opportunity for him to learn and
connect with others through listening to their stories
Listen to Rev
Garnett’s story

33
ACVO News
June 2022
Tom likes to attend the Open House
regularly to turn his focus away from alcohol.
He believes that having a community with
shared experience can help support those
experiencing drug, alcohol and mental health
issues as well as those who feel socially
isolated.
Tom's story
He says that Open House allows people to
switch off from any worries, even if it’s just a
quick coffee and chat.
Listen to Tom's story
Henry's Story
Henry volunteers with Open House with an
aim of connecting with those who attend and
enjoys assisting with any tech questions that
come up. He believes that there is a huge
issue with loneliness, especially since the
pandemic, and finds the Open House a vital
service to tackle these feelings.
In future, he would like to see more people
coming along to the Open House to build a
larger community where everyone can
socialise and help each other feel less lonely.
Listen to Henry's story

ACVO News
June 2022
34
TLC
Jonny's Story
Aberdeen
Befriending
Project
P
re-pandemic, there were
always people in Aberdeen
that have struggled with
loneliness and isolation,
however, due to the pandemic, we have
witnessed a huge increase in people
struggling with this crippling issue due to
the various lockdowns and fear that the
pandemic created, causing a loss of
confidence and fear in entering and being
part of their local community.
For those affected, this has meant a
decrease in their community
connectedness and resilience, with higher
levels of loneliness and Isolation felt which
has adversely affected their mental health
and wellbeing.
The TLC Aberdeen Befriending Project
matches volunteer befrienders with
individuals referred via the Primary Links
Practitioners, based in doctor’s surgeries
across Aberdeen.
The service aims to act as an early
intervention to alleviate the feelings of
loneliness and isolation, which has
adversely affected an individual’s mental
health and wellbeing, by supporting and
building individuals’ community
connectedness and personal resilience, all
of which improve individual life outcomes
Another project supported by the Scottish
Government Communities Mental Health
& Wellbeing Fund, distributed in
Aberdeen by ACVO.
Jonny is the Development Manager at TLC and has been involved
with the work of the organisation over the years, most recently
overseeing TLCs befriending project, established in response to the
Covid-19 pandemic. He has witnessed first hand the health and
wellbeing benefit of bringing people in communities together.
With the Aberdeen Befriending Project, Jonny wants to see the
resilience of individuals restored and the people they support feel
comfortable to engage fully with their community.
Listen to
Jonny's story

35
ACVO News
June 2022
Louise's Story
Louise is the Senior Coordinator for the
Aberdeen Befriending Project and through
her extensive experience working within the
City’s third sector, she realises the importance
of befriending schemes and the impact they
have on wellbeing.
She likes that the project is accessible for a
wide demographic of people and looks
forward to seeing the positive changes it will
bring.
Listen to Louise's story
Jennifer is the Coordinator for the Aberdeen
Befriending Project and, like Louise’s role, hers
is a new one for TLC, made possible in part by
a grant from the Communities Mental Health
& Wellbeing Fund.
Jennifer's Story
Jennifer feels that befriending not only helps
the person being supported but also the
volunteer providing the service and in
facilitating these relationships real meaningful
and beneficial connections can be made.
Listen to Jennifer's story

VOLUNTEERING
ACVO News
June 2022
36
Volunteering
April update from ACVO's Volunteering Services Manager, Mike Melvin
Find out more at volunteeraberdeen.org.uk
Fantastic Start to
Volunteers Week 2022
Volunteers Week 2022 is off to a superb
start in Aberdeen and across the country!
National Volunteers Week takes place
each year on 1st - 7th June. It celebrates and
thanks the millions of volunteers throughout the country
who do so much good for people and our communities.
It is also a perfect time to inspire even more people to get involved in volunteering.
As well as bringing you thank you messages from individuals and organisations thanking
Aberdeen's volunteers, we have two new films which highlight the impact volunteers make
on the city where we take a look at Greyhope Bay's 'Clean Beach, Happy People' project and
the achievements of Ryan Bannerman who recently received his 500 hours of volunteering
Saltire Award.
You can find out more and follow the campaign this week at acvo.org.uk/volweek22
I'm continually impressed by and grateful for all the incredible work volunteers do in
our city - thank you to you all for the difference you make.
Mike

37
ACVO News
June 2022
VOLUNTEERING

VOLUNTEERING
ACVO News
June 2022
38
Charlie House receive Queen’s
Award for volunteering
The prestigious award –
announced as the Queen’s
Platinum Jubilee Weekend
celebrations begin - recognises
outstanding work by local volunteer
groups to benefit their communities.
It is the highest award a local voluntary
group can receive in the UK and
equivalent to an MBE.
Charlie House was established so that
all children with life-limiting and lifethreatening
conditions in north-east
Scotland receive the support they
require. It is raising funds to build a
specialist care facility in Aberdeen.
Volunteers are central to the success of
the charity with more than 100
volunteers givingtheir time on a regular
basis or helping out with specific events
or projects.
They are involved in a diverse range of
roles, including providing activities for
children and families, donating their
time in the social enterprise café
ReCHarge and the indoor market
Curated Aberdeen, as well as the many
and varied fundraising events
throughout the year.
Volunteers also give their time and skills
to support behind-the-scenes activities
such as marketing, finance and general
administration.
Joan Cowie, volunteer and information
co-ordinator at Charlie House, said:
“We are all absolutely delighted at the
news of the Queen’s Award. It is such a
fitting tribute and welcome recognition
of the commitment and dedication of
our team of wonderful volunteers who
bring their skills, energy and enthusiasm
to everything they do.
“Despite reduced volunteering
opportunities during lockdown, our
volunteers worked really hard to adapt
to a new way of working. They donated
nearly 4,000 volunteer hours last year
alone by delivering online activities to
families, recording online tutorials and
working remotely.
“They went above and beyond to
provide invaluable support to the
families, many of whom experienced
long periods in isolation, shielding their
vulnerable children.
“Charlie House volunteers play an
incredibly important role in our
community.
“Our mission is to reach the 1,800
babies, children and young people with
life limiting or life-shortening conditions
who live in the north-east of Scotland.
At every level of our organisation,
volunteers are helping us to achieve our
goals – their support is truly invaluable.”
Volunteer Ruby said: “My volunteer
experience has been great so far. There
are always great opportunities to get
involved and to get to know the support
team, different volunteers, and the
families.
“I’m in a lucky position where I get to
see the benefits that Charlie House’s
support has to families.”
Charlie House is one of 244 UK local
charities, social enterprises and
voluntary groups to receive the
prestigious award this year.
The Aberdeen-based charity was
founded in 2011 by local mum, Tracy
Johnstone. It followed her own struggle
to find support locally for her son Louis,
whose needs meant the family had to
travel over 100 miles to the nearest
support facility.
Charlie House believes that every child
should receive a smooth transition from
hospital to home, and practical and
emotional support should be available
for themselves and their family. They
provide access to inclusive activities so
that they can live life to the full and
make memories for the whole family to
treasure.
In 2018, the charity launched the Big
Build Appeal to build a dedicated
support centre in Aberdeen so that
families no longer need to travel huge
distances to get vital support, respite
and care.
The contribution of Charlie House
volunteers, along with others from
across the UK, act as a reminder of the
value that volunteers are contributing
to their local communities and making
life better for those around them.
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary
Service was created in 2002 to
celebrate the Golden Jubilee and
recipients are announced each year on
2 June, the anniversary of The Queen’s
Coronation.
Representatives of Charlie House will
receive the award crystal and certificate
from Aberdeen’s Lord Provost Dr David
Cameron later this summer. In addition,
two volunteers from the charity will
attend a garden party at the Palace of
Holyroodhouse in July 2023.

39
ACVO News
June 2022
VOLUNTEERING
Photo by Abermedia

VOLUNTEERING
ACVO News
June 2022
40
Volunteering Action
Plan to launch at
The Gathering
The Volunteering Action Plan (VAP) is a
collaborative project led by the Scottish
Government that aims to create a
Scotland where everyone can volunteer,
more often, and throughout their lives.
The Plan builds upon Volunteering for
All: The National Framework and
provides ‘actions on the ground’
achieved through co-production,
learning and a spirit of reciprocity and is
designed to provide actions over a 10-
year period as a living plan.
The framework provides a coherent and
compelling narrative for volunteering
and defines the key outcomes desired
for volunteering over the next ten
years; and identifies (some of) the key
data and evidence to inform, indicate
and drive performance.
The formal launch of the action plan will
take place at the SCVO Gathering at on
Wednesday 15 June 09:30-12:15, all
are invited and full details can be found
at scvo.scot/the-gathering.
The Gathering, organised by SCVO, is
the largest voluntary sector event in the
UK and is back and coming to Glasgow's
SEC on 15 & 16 June 2022.
It’s free to attend the Gathering as a
delegate and everyone’s welcome -
voluntary sector staff, volunteers, board
members and trustees from
charities, social enterprises
and community groups, politicians,
academics and journalists, students and
members of the public.
Volunteers at Grampian
Opportunities take action
against climate change
Grampian Opportunities have been successful in receiving funding from the
National Lottery for the GO Green Project, which will support communities across
the UK to take action on climate change.
GO is lucky enough to have around 85 Volunteers who support the service in
various ways. A handful of Volunteers have been kind enough to give up their time
to form the GO Green steering group, ultimately the GO Green Project is a
Volunteer led Project supported by staff from GO. The main objectives of this
project will be to spend the next 12 months monitoring, evaluating and
implementing how we can share practical low or no costs options within the
organisation and wider community on our journey to net zero.
GO’s aim is to raise awareness and knowledge of current activities and to increase
the knowledge and skills of climate change and to encourage positive recycling
choices within the service as well as personally at home. Tracey Harrison is
Coordinating the GO Green Project and has set up some dates for the GO Green
Café meeting and hopes that people can attend as speakers will be invited to these
get togethers. Please contact Tracey at tracey@grampianopportunities.org.uk
if you are interested in coming along as your contribution would be valuable on the
day or find out more at grampianopportunities.org.uk
For Volunteers' Week, Grampian Opportunities would like to thank all the
tremendous Volunteers who offer their time and support and make such a positive
difference to all of Grampian Opportunities Projects and the people and
communities who are involved in these projects. Grampian Opportunities are
delighted to join in the National Volunteers Week and would like to say a big thank
you to all volunteers within our fantastic Service. Thank You to all our Volunteers
who have supported Grampian Opportunities over the years and continue to
support the service and their community.

41
ACVO News
June 2022
VOLUNTEERING
Aberdeen volunteers
needed for NSPCC’s
flagship Childhood Day
NSPCC Scotland is bringing
people in Aberdeen together
this summer to have fun
while helping to protect children from
abuse and neglect.
Childhood Day, which is on June 10, is
the NSPCC’s landmark charity day
where families, friends and colleagues
fundraise and take action to help keep
children safe.
To help make this the best Childhood
Day yet, the NSPCC is appealing for
volunteers on Friday 10 and Saturday
11 June at the ASDA Beach Superstore
from 10am until 6pm.
Caroline Renton, Supporter Fundraising
Manager for NSPCC Scotland, said:
“Last year, the NSPCC Helpline made
897 referrals to agencies in Scotland
about child abuse and neglect concerns
- an average of two referrals a day.
With the support of local people here in
Aberdeen, we can take action against
child abuse, and raise funds to ensure
young people always have someone to
turn to.
“We need volunteers to help at our
Aberdeen collection, so please contact
us if you’re able to give your time,
energy and enthusiasm. It would be
great if you could spare a couple of
hours to help us. Together we can make
all the difference for children.
“Or you may prefer to set up a
fundraising event. Whether you’re
organising a sponsored kickabout in the
park, a board game, a musical gettogether
or an online gaming
tournament, we want your help to get
the UK playing and to raise money to
help us keep children safe from abuse.”
To help with a collection, visit
nspcc.org.uk/support-us/eventsfundraising/childhood-day/volunteer/
If you want to do your own fundraising,
then visit nspcc.org.uk/childhoodday
for a fundraising pack.
-For any further information please feel
welcome to also email
CHDVolunteering@NSPCC.org.uk

VOLUNTEERING
ACVO News
June 2022
42
Charity Clan Cancer
Support to host
volunteering open day
orth-east cancer charity,
Clan Cancer Support is
hosting a volunteering Nopen day to attract the
public to sign up and support
people affected by cancer across its
communities.
The open day will be held at Clan
House situated on Westburn Road,
Aberdeen on Wednesday 8th June
2022 between 3pm and 8pm, and
will give anyone interested in
volunteering the opportunity to
find out more about the charity, its
work across the north-east and
Northern Isles as well as how
volunteering can make a difference
to your local community.
The day will coincide with this
year’s Volunteer’s Week in June,
and will encourage people to sign
up across all aspects of Clan,
including volunteering at events
and shops, as well as volunteering
to assist with listening and support
and driving clients to and from their
hospital appointments.
Val Lockhart, who has been
volunteering within the events
team at Clan since 2014 says, “I got
involved with Clan in 2014 through
the charities’ committee at my
work. When I moved on from the
job, I stayed with Clan. There are so
many positives for me, the important
local services I feel I’m supporting, the
lively and kind community I’ve
become part of, and the different
ways I’ve been able to contribute,
depending on work or other personal
commitments. I’d say to anyone
thinking of volunteering, sign up and
see how you like it. The most
important thing for me was how
welcoming the staff and volunteers
are.”
Claire Mechie, Clan’s Volunteer
Coordinator, says: “Volunteering is at
the very heart of everything that Clan
does. We are so proud of our
volunteers across our local
communities as they provide a variety
of important ways to support people
that are affected by cancer. Demand
for our volunteer service has grown,
and we’re looking for people across
different backgrounds to help in range
of roles throughout the region.
“We are delighted to be able to host
this, in-person, open day for the
public to engage with Clan, and find
out more about what we can offer in
terms of volunteering. Pop along to
Clan House to meet likeminded
volunteers, find out how to gain
valuable work experience, use
existing skills and develop new ones
by joining our skills bank, make a
difference to the lives of people
affected by cancer, or simply just
have a chat with us about how you
would like to get involved. No matter
what skills and time you have, Clan
can offer you a rewarding
experience.”
Clan would urge anyone who has
thought about volunteering before or
anyone who is looking for a new
challenge to head along to their open
day, to meet the team and find out
more about them as a charity and
how to get involved as a volunteer.
The charity plan to host several more
open day events for volunteering
throughout their community bases,
including Banchory, Inverurie,
Crimond, Elgin, Orkney and Shetland.
You can get in touch to find out more
about them by emailing
volunteering@clancancersupport.org
or call 01224 647000.
You can also visit Clan’s website
www.clancancersupport.org to find
out more about volunteering and
opening hours.

43
ACVO News
June 2022
VOLUNTEERING
Can you help North
East Eating
Disorders Support
(NEEDS) by
volunteering as a
facilitator?
NEEDS is looking for volunteer
facilitators for their monthly support
groups for those who are suffering from
an eating disorder, as well as for carers
who are supporting someone with an
eating disorder, either in person or from
a distance (e.g., a family member at
university or living elsewhere).
Have you suffered from an eating
disorder and been fully recovered for at
least 2 years, or have you had
experience of caring for a family
member or friend who has suffered
from an eating disorder and who is now
fully recovered or who is still suffering
from an eating disorder having had it for
several years?
If the answer is yes, are you someone
who can and is willing to support others
in this journey, who can always observe
confidentiality, be empathetic, kind, and
non-judgemental, be a good listener, be
sensitive to those who are not yet able
to share, and who can demonstrate the
value of self-care.
If you feel you would
like to join the team of
facilitators, please
contact Irene Kerr at
gram.needsadmin@nhs.scot

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
ACVO News
June 2022
44
Volunteer Drivers - Future Choices Aberdeen
The latest from our team.
We have exciting opportunities for people to join our great team of volunteer drivers.
Our group meets at Inchgarth Community Centre, Aboyne Place, Garthedee, Aberdeen on Tuesdays between 11.00am to
2.00pm. You will be made to feel very welcome as we are a very friendly, dynamic group and greatly appreciate help that
volunteers give. This is a great, enjoyable opportunity to help in the local community, make a positive difference and also the
opportunity to develop new skills.
For more information regarding this or any other volunteer opportunities at Future Choices please contact us at email:
info@future-choices.org.uk or through our website: www.future-choices.org.uk
Future Choices is a local voluntary charity which supports physically disabled adults by providing a range of social inclusion and
recreational activities.
Treasurer - Grampian Disability Sport (GDS)
Grampian Disability Sport (GDS) is a voluntary group where the main aim is to lead in the development of sport for people
with physical, sensory or learning disabilities in partnership with key local agencies and local authority areas in Aberdeen City,
Aberdeenshire and Moray. GDS is a member branch of Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) who are the governing body of sport
for athletes and players with a physical, sensory or learning disability. GDS have achieved SDS Minimum Operating
Requirements (MOR) which ensures all governance is up to date and appropriate. The committee of GDS now wishes to
appoint new Treasurer to continue to ensure that our finances and processes continue to be well-managed and transparent.
This is a great and exciting opportunity to help and make a real, positive difference.
Main duties include:Responsible for Grampian Disability Sport’s finances; Deal efficiently and effectively with all invoices and
bills; Keep up to date records of all the financial transactions; Ensure that funds are spent properly; Issue receipts and record
all money received; Attend committee meetings and present the budget report; Prepare the end of year accounts to present
to the auditors; In agreement with the committee plan the annual budget; Monitor the budget throughout the year; Help
prepare annual OSCR (Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator) return.
To apply please send a note of interest to Alison Shaw at email: alison.shaw@scottishdisabilitysport.com detailing why you
are interested in the role and any relevant skills and experience. If you have any questions or would like more information,
please also feel welcome to contact Alison at email: alison.shaw@scottishdisabilitysport.com or telephone 07828 744 848.
*(Closing date for applying is Wednesday 15th June 2022).
Daytime Activities Volunteers - Searchlight Scotland
Searchlight Scotland is involved in managing more than 200 refugees from around the world, currently residing at a facility in
Aberdeen. We provide people with support and have a range of activities during the day.
We are recruiting volunteers to help us during the daytime mainly in running outdoor and sport activities.
Our volunteers help by:
• Creating and running different activities (sport, DIY, craft, walks around Aberdeen city, art lessons etc.).
• Drive clients to their appointments or to outdoor activities.
Our amazing volunteers provide us with their time, passion and energy, helping us to continue supporting the vulnerable
people we serve in our community. In return, our volunteers have been able to:
· gain new skills and confidence
· enhance their CV and employability
· meet new people
· get training and support
· make a difference
If you wish to volunteer or for any further details please contact Eva D’ Amico, Volunteer Coordinator at email:
eva.d'amico@searchlightscotland.org or telephone.: 07927371717. More details are also available at our website:
https://www.searchlightscotland.org/volunteer

45
ACVO News
June 2022
VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
Nuart Aberdeen 2022 Volunteers - Nuart Aberdeen
The latest from our team.
We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers who wish to gain some valuable experience at Nuart Aberdeen 2022. Our
volunteers are an essential part of Nuart Festival and contribute to all areas of the production and events programme. We are
looking for event staff, runners, artist assistants, drivers, production crew and admin/marketing support for the festival. There
is no need for any training or previous experience as you will be fully briefed by the Nuart Team for your shifts.
We create dynamic schedules for our volunteers so you can try your hand at more than one role and get a well-rounded
experience at the festival. Production will take place from around 1-9 June, with the launch weekend programme running 9-
12 June. Our volunteer sign up form will ask you to indicate your areas of interest and your availability so we can allocate
shifts and roles. This is a relaxed and fun volunteer opportunity and we really look forward to working with you soon!
Opportunities include Event volunteers; Artist Assistants Volunteers; Volunteer Drivers; Production Volunteers; Volunteer
Runners; Marketing and Admin Support Volunteers
To sign up as a volunteer please complete the form at: https://bit.ly/3MbUlSy
*If you have any specific questions on volunteering, please contact us at email: volunteer@aberdeeninspired.com Otherwise
we'll be in touch in the coming weeks to organise shifts and tell you more about the festival!
*For more information on Nuart Aberdeen 2022, please visit the Nuart Aberdeen website - https://2022.nuartaberdeen.co.uk/
Board Members - Bonnymuir Green Community Trust
Bonnymuir Green Community Trust is a thriving community owned green space and registered charity. We have a productive,
managed community garden, a social hub and cafe, which is led, developed and sustained by local volunteers. We encourage all
members of the public to meet and share in a space that is accessible, providing the community with a mix of educational and
social activities, encouraging fun, good health, wellbeing and sustainable living.
Our aim is that Bonnymuir Green Community Trust develops and uses the site of the former Bonnymuir Green Bowling Club as
an asset, owned by and operated for the benefit of the community. Our vision is to create an urban sustainability hub. All
residents in our community and beyond will be encouraged to use it as a social hub where the emphasis is on promoting
greener, carbon reducing lifestyle.
To assist in this and the continued exciting developments at Bonnymuir Green Community Trust we are seeking new Board
Members, particularly people with HR or finance experience and/or a background in the community/third sector. If interested
please contact John Wigglesworth at email John.Wigglesworth@bgct.co.uk for more information.
Further details about Bonnymuir Green Community Trust are also available at http://www.bgct.co.uk/
Website/IT Volunteers - The Living Well Project
The latest from our team.
The aim of our small charity is to improve the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of those who feel isolated and also to
offer support to those living with dementia, as well as their carers. We offer a Befriending Service for older people as well as
dementia cafés in local communities.
We are looking for someone to develop a new website and to review and improve our IT and email set-up. You will need IT
skills and experience of website development as well as practical experience and knowledge. We are a team of three who
have limited technical expertise so we need someone with the necessary skills to liaise and communicate with us in simple
English! We are very enthusiastic about what we do and try to find the fun in things, but IT issues are SO not fun for us and we
need help!
This is a great opportunity for someone to develop and showcase their IT skills. It could suit someone who finds themselves
with spare time and who would like to offer our charity the benefit of their experience.
For an informal chat to find out more information about what’s involved, please call Ruth on 07423 071448 or email us at
admin@thelivingwellproject.org.uk

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
ACVO News
June 2022
46
Bumps, Babies and Beyond Group Volunteers -
Ferryhill - National Childbirth Trust (NCT - Aberdeen)
Open up in the Centre, put out toys, welcome parents and carers, make tea/coffee, offer support and include new people,
clear up and tidy up at end of session. This always works well when there is a wee team of volunteers, it is a great way to
support parents. You don't have to be a parent to volunteer, but if you do have wee ones it is all done with them there and
around them.
For further details please contact Victoria Ellis at email: aberdeen@nct.org.uk
Organisation aims and objectives
Our vision is of a world in which no parent is isolated and all parents are supported to build a stronger society. Our charitable
purposes is to: *offer information and support in pregnancy, birth and early parenthood. *campaign to improve maternity care
and ensure better services and facilities for new parents. *give every parent the chance to make informed choices. *make sure
that everyone has access to our services and activities. Locally, in Aberdeen City and the 'shire we provide support for
parents and parents-to-be by being the local face of NCT. We run weekly groups, fundraising events and social events as
well as a variety of training courses.
Market Garden Volunteers - TAMS -
The Allotment Market Stall
The latest from our team.
The Allotment Market Stall provides good-quality, well-priced, locally grown fruit and vegetables and reduces waste. We
have opportunities this season for volunteers to be a part of developing our nature friendly market garden. To join in with the
cultivation of a nature friendly market garden (approx. 2 hours Friday lunchtime or Sunday afternoon throughout the year. We
are flexible regarding how many shifts. It can be every week or just a one off according to your availability). Would suit
someone who enjoys outdoors and nature and wants to be part of a community project promoting local food growing.
Main tasks involve:
• Help make and plant up our no dig beds.
• Sowing seeds and looking after them.
• Planting and tending fruit and veg.
• Garden maintenance and DIY.
Full training will be given. Volunteers will be accompanied and supported at all times.
This is a great opportunity to:
• Make a difference in your city and the environment.
• Be a part of a community of growers.
• Learn gardening skills.
For more details please contact us at email: theallotmentmentmarketstall@gmail.com
I Bike Volunteers Aberdeen – Sustrans Scotland
Are you passionate about cycling and walking? Could you inspire young people in Aberdeen to cycle or walk more? Volunteer
with I Bike!
I Bike is a really fun and rewarding project to volunteer with that offers plenty of opportunities to get outdoors for cyclingrelated
activities, boost the CV, gain experience of work with children and young people, meet new people and learn new
skills.
Good training and support is provided to all volunteers including an online Welcome Session, Child Protection Training,
Cycling Skills and Bike Repairs. For most activities you don’t have to own a bike to join in – bikes and helmets can be provided
depending on availability.
I Bike aims to help children and young people become more active through taking part in cycling and walking activities. You
would be volunteering alongside a dedicated I Bike Officer in schools, supporting activities for children such as learn to cycle,
playground cycle skills, led bike rides, led walks, bike maintenance and much more! What could be better than helping
children to ride their bike without stabilisers for the first time?
Hear from some of our fantastic volunteers via our website link at https://ibike.sustrans.org.uk/home/volunteers/
We advocate for volunteering for all – please talk to us if you have any accessibility requirements or other specific
requirements.
A fantastic opportunity to help. All volunteers make a real difference and are greatly appreciated. For further details please
contact Anna Whealing, Project Officer, I Bike Volunteering, Sustrans Scotland at email: Anna.Whealing@sustrans.org.uk

47
ACVO News
June 2022
VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
Disability Equity Partnership Volunteer Members
The Partnership works to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and to break down barriers,
overcome challenges and improve quality of life.
The group comprises approximately 15 members of the public, working with five local councillors, and its vision is to:
a) To bring about improvements to the lives of people in Aberdeen City who experience exclusion because of disability by
promoting a rights-based approach to disability equality.
b) To create a society where disabled people are valued, respected and included in the life of the City.
c) To encourage and promote inclusion and equality.
d) To create fair opportunity by identifying and removing the disabling barriers which disabled people face daily including
prejudice, discrimination and negative attitudes.
e) To provide a means of partnership, consultation and joint action with Aberdeen City Council
Meetings are held at Aberdeen Town House (entrance from Queen Street, Aberdeen). There is also the option to join the
meeting remotely if you choose to do so. The Disability Equity Partnership (DEP) has 6 meetings over the year. Examples of
projects we have been working on include the City Centre Masterplan, Union Terrace Gardens, webpage and information
accessibility to reduce barriers and improve access to information, goods and services.
Excellent support and relevant training is provided to all volunteers. Volunteers will be offered training on Equalities and the
role of the group and the council.
For further details please contact Baldeep McGarry, Equalities Officer at email: BMcGarry@aberdeencity.gov.uk or tel.:
07767353006.
Northfield Youth Hub Volunteers
The latest from our team.
If you are interested in helping your community then this is for you! Helping through volunteering with a multi-agency group
who will support each other in delivering a new youth hub for the young people and wider community in Northfield.
The Northfield Youth Hub have a number of great ways you can join us and help including volunteering as Chair, Treasurer or
Secretary
These are fantastic opportunities to make a real difference for young people and the community. All volunteers are greatly
appreciated.
For further details about any of the roles and ways you can assist the Northfield Youth Hub please contact Derek Bain,
Partnership Development Officer at email: derek.bain@scotland.police.uk or telephone: 01224 301068.
Playgroup Support Volunteers – Aberdeen North Parish
The latest from our team.
This is a fantastic opportunity to use current child care and hospitality skills or to develop new ones. The playgroup is well
attended and is a wonderful atmosphere. Duties include helping with setting out toys, craft activities, snacks and occasional
help with teas and coffees for parents/carers.
There is opportunity to develop skills in leading craft, story time and games if desired. Volunteers would engage with the
children during free play, being mindful of health and safety, modelling sharing, praising children’s creative ideas etc.
Volunteers would be warm and welcoming to parents and carers encouraging them to engage in play with their children and
stepping in to play while parents/carers have a chance for a cuppa. Duties also include tidying up, cleaning the assigned toy set
, and putting away toys and crafts.
Excellent support and guidance is provided to all volunteers. Volunteers will be given an induction into the roles and tasks.
Through an informal chat we will agree the volunteers experience and identify together the needs for support and training or if
the candidate is experienced, responsibilities for the person. All requests for training will be discussed and considered. Support
will take the form of a team and individual check in before and after each playgroup session.
This is a joyful, fun team who work hard to ensure the children and families have a positive and enjoyable experience while
they are with us. You would be a welcome member of our team. This is a term time opportunity on Thursday’s. The group runs
from 1pm until 2:30pm. Volunteers are needed from 12:30 until 3pm each week.
If you are interested in helping and for more details please contact Claire van Geete, Children and Families Development
Worker at email: CVanGeete@churchofscotland.org.uk or tel.: 07526465105.

FUNDING
ACVO News
June 2022
48
Funding
Funding news and highlights from ACVO Funding Officer, Claire Shaw
Henry Duncan Grants 2022
Supporting children and young people experiencing inequality
I
n 2022, Henry Duncan
Grants will fund
organisations that can
demonstrate that they are supporting
children and young people (aged 6-26
years) to overcome the impacts of
inequality in their lives. Henry Duncan
Grants will be open to grassroots
organisations with an annual income of
£500,000 or less. Organisations can
apply for up to £40,000 across five
years (£8,000 per year) in unrestricted
funding.
Corra anticipate making grants up to a
total of £925,000, meaning
approximately 23-25 organisations are
likely to receive funding. In recognition
of historic inequity in funding, Corra will
commit at least £330,000 (around 30%)
of this fund budget to support
organisations that are led by Black,
Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities.
Following engagement with young
people and community organisations,
they have identified two priority areas
for funding:
Organisations that are supporting
children and young people to shape
their own lives.
Organisations that are supporting
children and young people to
develop skills for the future.
The closing date for sending in
applications is 12-noon on Tuesday 5th
July 2022. Find out more and apply
online at corra.scot/grants/henryduncan-grants

49
ACVO News
June 2022
FUNDING
Scottish Government
Investing in Communities
Fund (ICF) open for
applications
As of Tuesday 31 May 2022
Round 2 of the Investing in
Communities Fund has opened
for applications and this multi-year fund
covers the period from 1 April 2023 to 31
March 2026.
The Investing in Communities Fund (ICF) is
a streamlined communities fund that is
delivered as part of the Empowering
Communities Programme. The fund
reflects the commitment of the Scottish
Government to invest in communities so
that they can develop the resources and
resilience to decide their own aspirations,
priorities and solutions in response.
The fund supports our most disadvantaged
or fragile communities to tackle poverty in
all its forms on their own terms. The fund
also helps to meet targets as set out in the
child poverty delivery plan and to underpin
the Place Principle by encouraging more
joined up collaborative approaches to
services and assets to achieve better
outcomes for people and communities.
The application process will be delivered
through a web-based online funding portal
which can be found at
gov.scot/policies/communityempowerment.
Application guidance
notes, examples of projects successfully
funded during round 1 as well as FAQs can
also be found on the application page.

FUNDING
ACVO News
June 2022
50
Let's Move Together
New Round of Funding - Deadline Sunday 31st July
Versus Arthritis want to address and prevent the likely
reduction of marginalised communities driving sport and
physical activity forward, by fostering and protecting
community bodies, coaches and volunteers.
By recognising the need for this funding to be opened UK
wide, Versus Arthritis has made £150,000 available
through The Let’s Move Together Fund which will support
organisations in Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland.
Versus Arthritis particularly welcome applications from
organisations who support people with long-term health
conditions, people from lower socio-economic groups,
culturally diverse communities and disabled people.
To find out more and apply, visit versusarthritis.org
Grants between £1,000 and £5,000 are being offered as
part of the fund.
Additional funding may be available above the £5,000 but
you will need to discuss this with a member of the Versus
Arthritis team before submitting the application.
Funding should be spent within six months of being
awarded, as the aim of the fund is to address the negative
impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mary Salmond Trust
Grants up to £500 to groups and individuals
from the Northeast of Scotland
The trust aims to support the advancement of community
development, by encouraging activities that have a public
benefit.
The Trust is also keen to promote projects which focus on
children and young people’s health and welfare, training
and education, civic responsibility, and volunteering.
The next Trustees meeting is 11 July
Completed applications should be submitted by 8 July
Full details and application details can be found at
www.marysalmondtrust.com
During the year to 31 March 2022 the Trustees approved
25 applications for funding support totalling £11,025.
The amount of each grant was limited to a maximum of
£500. Of these grants, 23 were made to community
organisations or charities and 2 were made to individuals.
Since the Trust was established in 2007, 413 grants
amounting to £175,116 have been awarded, an average of
£400 per grant.

51
ACVO News
June 2022
FUNDING
Technology Enabled Care (TEC) Programme
Stakeholder Engagement Funding Available
The Scottish Government’s
Technology Enabled Care
Programme is supporting
Telecare Service Providers across the
country to redesign their services,
taking advantage of new technologies
and service models now available.
In order to support those Providers to
understand the needs of all their
stakeholders, particularly those less
heard voices and groups who are
unlikely to participate in engagement
sessions with their Health and Social
Care Partnership or Housing Provider
directly due to issues including physical
and mental health support needs,
communication, digital skills or
confidence, TEC would like you to carry
out a stakeholder engagement session
on their behalf with your members and
the people who use your services and
then let TEC know what they say. TEC
would also like to invite some of those
people who take part to contribute to a
slightly longer-term co-design process.
Telecare is a service which is provided,
usually by Health and Social Care
Partnerships or Housing Providers, and
helps people to live more independently
at home and in their community. It is
sometimes referred to as a Community
Alarm Service. The basic service
consists of a trigger device, worn
around your neck or on your wrist with
a button which you can press if you
have a fall, feel anxious or need other
assistance. The trigger communicates
with a base unit in your home, which
then uses your phone line to contact an
Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC). The ARC
may notify either a responder service,
your nominated contact person or
emergency services depending on the
circumstances. There are also systems
used in supported or sheltered
accommodation which may contact an
internal central support point and/or
ARC.
Other devices can be added to this
including smoke, heat and CO
detectors, door contacts which alert to
someone leaving their home at unusual
times, activity sensors which help to see
if someone is coping well at home. They
sometimes also include devices like GPS
to prevent people from going missing.
Telecare services are also looking at
options for introducing consumer
devices like smartwatches, voice
assistants and apps.
Usually Telecare customers pay a
weekly or monthly amount for the
service depending on where they live.
TEC would like to hear from third and
independent sector organisations who
work directly with people who may
benefit from using a telecare service or
who currently use one.
They want to hear from people who
might not usually consider telecare as
an option, perhaps because it is felt to
be difficult to access, or who don’t feel
that it offers them any benefit so that
they can understand how to improve it.
20 grants of £1,500 are available.
The format of the engagement sessions
will be left to you to decide as the
experts in your field of support, but TEC
can offer some guidance on methods
and tools which can be used.
The grant is to cover your costs for
contacting your members or customers,
supporting them to participate,
preparation and delivery of the session
and compilation and return of feedback
to the Technology Enabled Care
Programme.
How to apply?
Find out more and complete an online
form at tec.scot
Applications will be shortlisted and
scored based on identified gaps in
previous stakeholder engagement
activities to avoid duplication and
ensure TEC hear from as wide a sector
of communities as possible.
What are the timescales?
The deadline for applications is close of
business Friday 10th June 22.

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES
ACVO News
June 2022
52
Health & Social Care
Updates
New HIV PrEP
national resources
launched by NHS
THIV PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
is one of a range of options to prevent
the transmission of HIV and can be of
benefit to anyone at risk of HIV
transmission.
A suite of new and updated HIV PrEP
resources have been developed in
collaboration with NHS, third sector
and academic partners on behalf of the
Scottish HIV PrEP National Coordination
Group. These resources aim
to increase awareness of HIV PrEP and
support people considering, or
prescribed, HIV PrEP and their sexual
partners to have the information and
knowledge required to make informed
choices about HIV PrEP.
The website www.prep.scot brings
these resources together and allows
anyone thinking about HIV PrEP to
easily access the information they
need and links people to their nearest
sexual health services that provides
HIV PrEP. Resources include leaflets,
booklets and diagrams which can all be
downloaded in accessible PDF form
from the website.
New Community
Treatment and
Care (CTAC) Hubs
opening for
Aberdeen City GP
practice patients
from end of June
New Community Treatment and Care
(CTAC) Hubs will be opening for
Aberdeen City GP Practice patients
from the end of June 2022. The
appointment booking line for the hubs
will open on Monday 6th June 9am-
5pm for patient appointments from the
20th June.
Patients from any Aberdeen City
practice can attend any Aberdeen City
CTAC Hub, or the patient may wish to
continue booking in with their GP
based CTAC nurse/HCSW, for their
CTAC procedures.
CTAC procedures include; phlebotomy,
CDM monitoring procedures, blood
pressure, height/weight, ear syringing,
wound care, stitches/staple removal,
PICC line care, diabetic foot screening
and urinalysis.
For any additional information
regarding the CTAC hubs please
contact gram.ctacservice@nhs.scot or
visit Primary Care | Aberdeen City
HSCP

Vacancies
VACANCIES
keeep up to date with the latest third sector opportunities at acvo.org.uk/vacancies
ACVO News
June 2022
54
AiR Community Coordinator
ABERDEEN IN RECOVERY
Are you passionate about Recovery?
Do you want to make a difference in the community?
We are excited to offer this amazing opportunity to play a lead
role in shaping the future of Aberdeen’s recovery community
AiR Community Coordinator
£28,128 | Full time – flexible hours* job share applications welcome
12 months fixed term contract in the first instance
Closes 5pm Tuesday, 14th June 2022
Aberdeen in Recovery strives to be a sustainable and empowered recovery community which provides
opportunity, support and inspiration to people, families and communities affected by alcohol and drugs in
Aberdeen and surrounding areas. As the new Community Coordinator you will play a key role in ensuring we
achieve this purpose. You will develop and deliver projects in line with AiR’s objectives together with fulfilling
obligations from stakeholder funding.
You will be highly motivated and passionate about growing a community of lived experience in relation to
alcohol and drugs as well as destigmatising people and families who experience substance use and mental ill
health. You should have strong interpersonal skills and an understanding of different models of recovery. You
will be a strength based leader with experience of coaching and supervising a team. Lived experience of
substance use and recovery, either personally or as a family member, is also a must.
Further details including the full job description, person specification and application form can be found here.
If you wish to discuss this post prior to applying, you can email HR@alcoholanddrugsaction.org.uk with your
name and contact details and someone will get back to you.
Completed applications should also be submitted to HR@alcoholanddrugsaction.org.uk no later than 5pm
Tuesday, 14th June 2022.
acvo.org.uk/vacancies/air-community-coordinator/

55
ACVO News
June 2022
VACANCIES
Executive Assistant
GRAMPIAN HOUSING ASSOCIATION
An Exciting opportunity has arisen for a well organised Executive Assistant to join our
Business Support Hub. The successful applicant will provide high quality administrative and
secretarial support to the Executive team and Chair as well as servicing Board and
Committee meetings. If you are looking for a role that offers scope to develop your PA
skillset, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Salary: £27,000 – £30,000 max entry £28,200 | Full time 35 hours
Job Type: Permanent
Closes 13th June 2022
Overall Purpose of Job
To provide high quality administrative and secretarial support to the Chair and Senior Management Team
(Chief Executive, Chief Operating Officer & Director of Strategic Services).
Along with the Governance Officer, to service meetings of the GHA and KDL Boards of Management,
Committees and Leadership Team.
To work with Strategic Service colleagues to ensure the provision of professional and high calibre support
to stakeholders, working collaboratively and supportively to ensure delivery of corporate aims.
Principal Responsibilities
Providing administrative and secretarial support to the Chair and Senior Management Team including
preparation of presentations, reports and outgoing correspondence, dealing with confidential papers,
incoming email management, dealing with telephone calls and diary management.
Assisting the Governance Officer with servicing Board and Committee meetings by preparing agendas,
collating papers, minute taking and administration.
Assisting the SMT and Managers to ensure that all departmental policies and procedure documents are
reviewed and approved by Board/Committee/Leadership Team as appropriate including maintaining the
policy matrix.
Formatting policies, strategies and reports to ensure consistency with corporate branding and style and
uploading documents to the Intranet and website.
Booking Board, Committee and internal meeting cycles.
Booking and setting up rooms for meetings including setting up IT equipment and arranging catering.
Updating internal team plans as identified by the SMT to ensure they are accurate and up to date.
Co-ordinating and organising training, travel and accommodation for Board members and SMT
Assisting with facilities management of the Association’s office premises as required.
Dealing with filing for the SMT
To carry out all duties of this post in accordance with the relevant Association policies and procedures
including the Equal Opportunities Policy
acvo.org.uk/vacancies/air-community-coordinator/

EVENTS
ACVO News
June 2022
56
Events, training
& workshops
Using the law to defend the climate
Aberdeen Climate Action
Tuesday 7 June 2022 | 19:00 – 21:00 BST | Online
P
rof Thomas Muinzer, Codirector,
Energy Law Centre,
University of Aberdeen, will
give a talk under the title “Law and the
Climate Emergency: International and
National Frameworks”.
Ben Christman, Environmental Rights
Centre for Scotland, will give a talk
under the title “How to use human
rights law to tackle the climate crisis”.
Hannah Darnell, Law Clinic Manager &
Solicitor, RGU, will give a talk under the
title “People Power and Planning”.
Three 20-minute presentations will be
followed by an opportunity for you to
ask the speakers questions and
participate in the discussion.
Why not invite a friend or two to come
to the event and even share the event
with your network?
Details to join the Zoom meeting will be
included in your confirmation email
when you sign up.
The event space will be open from 6:30
pm, talks begin at 7 pm.
You can find more information about
our Climate Cafes and Aberdeen
Climate Action at:
aberdeenclimateaction.org

57
ACVO News
June 2022
EVENTS
Knowledge is Power final
online shared learning event
Thursday 16th June | 1.30-3.30pm | Online
S
cottish Community
Development Centre and
the Poverty Alliance would
like to invite you to attend an online
shared learning and celebratory event
with community groups supported by
the Knowledge is Power programme to
design and carry out their own
community-led action research - where
the community decides on the issue to
be researched, designs and carries out
the research, and makes use of the
results. The session should be relevant
to anyone interested in this approach,
including community and voluntary
organisations, funders, academics and
public sector organisations.
Knowledge is Power is a programme
from Scottish Community Development
Centre and The Poverty Alliance to
support community-led action research.
It has been jointly funded by The
National Lottery Community Fund and
the Scottish Government with
additional contributions from the Corra
Foundation and Inspiring Scotland. The
two-year programme has supported
community organisations across
Scotland to develop their own evidence
to influence change in their
communities - and to take forward
actions for improvement. As Knowledge
is Power website has also been
developed, featuring a toolkit for
groups wanting to carry out their own
research as well as examples of where
groups have been supported to do this.
Participants at this informal event will
hear from community groups who have
carried out their own research over the
past 2 years. There are some important
messages to share, including the
benefits community-led action research
brings to individuals, groups and
services as well as the challenges faced,
particularly during the Covid-19
pandemic.
knowledgeispower.scot/news/knowledge-is-power-meeting-wtexa

acvo.org.uk