ACVO News August 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 

POSITIVE CHANGE 

THROUGH FOOTBALL: 

STREET 

SOCCER 

SCOTLAND 

A L S O I N T H I S E D I T I O N 

C r e a t e A b e r d e e n 

" W e e n c o u r a g e p e o p l e t o n o t h a v e 

t h o s e b a r r i e r s a n d t o n o t t h i n k ' I c a n ' t 

d o t h a t , I t ' s a l l a b o u t b e i n g p o s i t i v e . " 

A N D M U C H M O R E ! 

A U G U S T | 2 0 2 2

acvo.org.uk

CONTENTS 

ACVO News 

August 2022 

3 

8 Neil and Lora Fachie OBE 

appointed patrons of The 

Archie Foundation 

22 Community Garden Festival 

Aberdeen returns after a 

successful last year 

30 Create Aberdeen: 

making a difference 

in the city 

4 

ACVO Updates 

8 

News from you and other networks 

38 

Volunteering 

The latest from Mike Melvin and 

Volunteer Aberdeen 

46 

Volunteering Opportunities 

51 

Funding 

The latest funding news and 

opportunities 

P.34 

STREET SOCCER 

SCOTLAND: POSITIVE 

CHANGE THROUGH 

FOOTBALL 

54 

Health and Social Care Updates 

55 

Vacancies 

Latest opportunities from the third 

sector in Aberdeen and beyond 

Not on the mailing list to receive 

ACVO News Direct to your inbox 

every fortnight? Sign up here. 

Scottish Charity No: SC036845

ACVO UPDATES 



4 

Welcome to the 

Alasdair Ross 

Policy and Consultations Officer 

I’m very pleased to have taken up this brand new role which is shared 

jointly with AVA in Aberdeenshire. 

Team! 

As well as helping strengthen ACVO’s policy influencing role, I’ll be 

helping the third sector to engage in local, regional and national 

debates about public sector policies that affect organisations and their 

service users. This means studying new legislation, policies and 

procedures (and changes to current ones) in detail and relating it to real 

life situations. I will be in touch with lots of ACVO members and third 

sector organisations to gather information and to seek views and 

opinions on a whole host of topics. 

emily.shepherd@acvo.org.uk 

Emily Shepherd 

Digital Media Assistant 

alasdair.ross@avashire.org.uk 

07469 649805 

Expectations on the third sector to deliver services to the community have never been higher and so it is more 

important than ever to use that vast bank of knowledge and experience to inform, educate and influence the decision 

making process. 

I’ve worked in the public, private and third sector including 10 years in local government with Aberdeen City Council. 

When I’m not at my desk I’m busy being a dad to my two children as well as being a volunteer in my local community 

in Aberdeenshire. I very much look forward to working with the huge diversity of third sector organisations across the 

city through ACVO. 

Hello, my name is Emily and I am ACVO's new Digital Media 

Assistant! I am excited to be joining this wonderful organisation to 

assist with all things media related. Last year, I graduated from Robert 

Gordon University with a degree in Media so this is the perfect job for 

me to utilise all the skills and knowledge I learnt throughout my years 

in higher education. 

Since starting in April, I have helped with the creation of the monthly 

ACVO newsletters, webpages, audio pieces and films featuring our 

vibrant third sector. Myself and ACVO's Communication Officer Andrew are also working towards a big digital storytelling 

project. This will showcase recipients of the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund and how their allocated funds 

have helped their organisations and projects so far. We are excited to launch this project in a few months time! 

So far, my favourite part of this job is meeting a diverse range of people across Aberdeen city who are involved in the third 

sector. I enjoy hearing their stories and being able to share them across our platforms in a creative way. It is a very 

rewarding job and also a great team to work with. 

Outside of ACVO, I keep busy with two other jobs including working as a Runner for the BBC gardening series Beechgrove. 

I also enjoy travelling, attending live events, cooking and visiting my newborn niece Imogen down in Edinburgh.

5 



NEWS 

Have your say about 

Come and Network 

Week 2022 

CAN Week is targeted at volunteers on management 

committees, associations, and other community organisations 

It is an opportunity to network, share experiences and skillup 

for supporting communities by participating in a range of 

workshops, talks and discussions 

To make the programme as relevant to your communities’ 

support needs as possible, we would like you to complete a 

short survey below: 

https://acvo.jotform.com/221582884974875 

Email bea.dawkins@acvo.org.uk for a Word document 

version of the survey if this is easier for you. If you would 

prefer to give your answers verbally, you can call Bea at 

ACVO on 07487540917 

Deadline for all returns is 5pm on Friday the 12th of 


Finally, please note that CAN Week 2022 will take 

place in September/October, full details will follow

ACVO UPDATES 



6 

Want to be part of a hardworking and passionate team who work to 

involve, represent, support and develop Aberdeen's vibrant third sector? 

JOIN THE 

ACVO TEAM! 

As part of our ongoing development, we are pleased to announce that 

currently have a brand new opportunity to work with ACVO 

THIRD SECTOR DEVELOPMENT 

OFFICER (THE PROMISE) - 

SECONDMENT CONSIDERED 

 

CLOSES AUGUST 12TH 

This new role supports our commitment towards developing and involving the third sector in 

our city. 

This role will see the successful candidate support the implementation of The Promise (A 

Good Childhood). The Corra Foundation and the Scottish Government have invested in 

ACVO to work with third sector organisations in this process to engage fully with the 

ambitions of The Promise in Aberdeen 

This post will offer third sector organisations the ability to feel better connected with each 

other around the ambitions for The Promise, through facilitation of events, coordination of 

information, learning and potentially data to look more closely at how we as a city are 

delivering on aspects of A Good Childhood together. 

For the ambitions of The Promise to be successful all sectors need to work together to look at 

the whole picture of the lives of care experienced children, young people and families. This 

role will help support third sector organisations to be part of the design and delivery of 

services in any new commissioning frameworks with the ambition to help shape and inform 

the aims of A Good Childhood. 

This is a chance to join a friendly and dynamic team and be part of shaping change with the 

third sector and delivering on the ambitions of The Promise. 

Apply now at 

acvo.org.uk/vacancies/third-sector-development-officer-the-promise/

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.

NEWS 



8 

News from you 

and other networks 

Paralympic Gold Cyclists 

Appointed Patrons of The 

Archie Foundation 

Two of the world's top Paralympic cyclists, husband and wife, Neil and Lora 

Fachie OBE have been appointed patrons of The Archie Foundation, an 

Aberdeen-based healthcare charity that supports babies, children and their 

families across the north of Scotland. 

The couple looks forward to working with local healthcare charity The Archie Foundation to make the difference for local 

babies, children and their families.

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NEWS 

Aberdeen-born Neil was 

diagnosed with a 

congenital eye condition, 

Retinitis Pigmentosa, at 

four years old. In a prolific career he 

has represented Paralympics GB - 

winning gold at both London 2012 

and Tokyo 2020 games as well as 

British Cycling and Team Scotland 

at numerous other major 

championships, winning 29 medals 

in total, 20 of which are gold. 

Lora, who is originally from 

Liverpool, was born into a family 

where everyone was visually 

impaired and grew up believing that 

her blindness was not a barrier and 

would never hold her back. She lost 

her sight aged five years old due to 

a hereditary condition, but inspired 

by her family, has never let her 

condition stop her from achieving 

her goals. Lora’s cycling career has 

already seen her win 18 medals in 

major championships with six of 

those gold, including winning gold at 

both Rio de Janeiro 2016 and Tokyo 

2020 paralympic games. 

Lora said: “It is such an honour to be 

associated with a local charity that 

does so much for so many. We are 

really proud to have been asked to 

be patrons of The Archie 

Foundation. With Neil being from 

Aberdeen, it was a no-brainer when 

we were asked. 

“I have always had a passion for 

supporting children in healthcare. If 

I hadn’t been successful in cycling I 

would have been a physiotherapist, 

as I wanted to work in schools 

supporting children with complex 

additional support needs. This 

opportunity just seemed like the 

perfect fit for us both and to still 

have that connection since I didn’t 

go down the physio route but still 

being able to support children in 

hospital as best as we can, is 

something we are really looking 

forward to.” 

Multi gold medal winning couple, Neil and Lora Fachie join The Archie Foundation as newest patrons 

The Archie Foundation provides 

support and services for babies, 

children and their families in Royal 

Aberdeen Children’s Hospital and 

Aberdeen Neonatal Unit, Highland 

Children’s Unit and Tayside Children’s 

Hospital. The charity also provides 

vital support for bereaved children 

and their families through Archie’s 

Child Bereavement Service, which has 

recently been extended to support 

families in the Highlands and Tayside 

due to an increase in demand for its 

services. 

Neil added: “The fact that we are 

expecting our first child too brings it 

home even more. We are both really 

looking forward to visiting Royal 

Aberdeen Children’s Hospital in 

September with Lora’s guide dog, Tai.” 

In June, of this year, both Neil and 

Lora were recognised for their 

services to cycling in The Queen’s 

Birthday Honours List, with their 

OBE’s being a true testament to all 

they have done for the sport. 

Paula Cormack, Chief Executive 

Officer at The Archie Foundation said: 

“We hope that with Neil and Lora 

joining Archie as Patrons, we can 

continue to inspire the many children 

that come through the doors of our 

hospitals, showing that anything is 

possible, no matter your diagnosis. 

They are a huge inspirational couple 

and we are truly honoured to have 

them representing The Archie 

Foundation. We are really looking 

forward to working with Neil and Lora 

to help make the difference for 

babies, children and families affected 

by illness or bereavement, and of 

course for the wonderful NHS staff 

who support them.” 

Neil and Lora are continuing their 

support of the region by playing a key 

role in Cycle Aberdeenshire, a twoweek 

programme of events leading up 

to Stage One of this year’s Tour of 

Britain on Sunday, 4 September. There 

will be a variety of events on offer 

during the fortnight event run by Live 

Life Aberdeenshire, including Bike 

Blethers, an evening with the couple, 

in partnership with The Archie 

Foundation on Thursday 1st 

September, where they will be sharing 

their story of sporting success across 

the Paralympics, World 

Championships and the 

Commonwealth Games. 

To book your tickets for Bike Blethers 

or for further information on the twoweek-long 

calendar of events, please 

go to Cycle Aberdeenshire - Live, Life 

Aberdeenshire 

(livelifeaberdeenshire.org.uk).

NEWS 



10 

Grampian 

Women's Aid: 

Training in 

August & 

September 

OWN MY LIFE Taster 

Session for Agency 

Professionals 

 

Wednesday 25th August, 13:00- 

16:00 

This taster session introduces 

Own My Life course content with 

the purpose of enabling 

professionals to more confidently 

and effectively refer women onto 

the course. 

Aberdeen Science Centre 

Brings CSI to the North-East 

Aberdeen Science Centre is set to offer the chance to step into the shoes of a 

forensic scientist with a series of crime scene investigation workshops and 

demonstrations as part of its summer activities programme. 

Aberdeen Science Centre will take 

visitors to the scene of the crime, 

playing the role of a visiting technician 

to the ASC Crime Lab, which will host 

forensic science workshops including a 

range of exciting experiments. 

The forensic scientists of the future 

will also be able to take part in the fun 

with several hands-on activities and 

storytelling sessions themed around 

observation in the Under-6s zone. 

The exhibition floor will also receive a 

CSI style makeover with a mock crime 

scene that will sharpen the skills of any 

investigator out there, challenging 

them to crack a case that would leave 

Sherlock Holmes stumped. 

Visitors can also take part in pop-up 

exhibitions including the CSI: On the 

Spot demonstrations with science 

centre staff. 

Aberdeen Science Centre’s CSI themed 

activities have ran throughout July and 

will continue to run through August, 

with normal opening times applying. It 

is recommended that tickets are 

purchased in advance to avoid 

disappointment. 

Jessica Brooks, public and digital 

programme co-ordinator at Aberdeen 

Science Centre, said: “Our CSI 

activities will take our visitors right to 

the centre of an investigation, working 

in our crime lab and taking part in 

Find out more and book your 

place here: http://grampianwomens-aid.com/training/ownmy-life-taster-session-for-agencyprofessionals-aug/ 

The Dynamics 

of Domestic Abuse 

 

Wednesday 7th September, 

18:00-20:00 

Open to the public and to 

professionals - to anyone 

interested in expanding their 

knowledge of domestic abuse. 

Find out more and book your 

place here: http://grampianwomensaid.com/training/understandingeconomic-abuse-sep/

11 



NEWS 

many interesting experiments. 

“Summer at Aberdeen Science Centre 

will offer a forensic experience for all 

ages, including the budding young 

scientists out there, who can hone 

their spy skills in a number of activities 

that will put their skills to the test. We 

look forward to giving our visitors their 

first taste of the life of a crime scene 

investigator.” 

Recently awarded 5-star status by 

VisitScotland, Aberdeen Science 

Centre reopened to the public in 

November 2020 after a major project 

to create an aspirational science centre 

which reflects the STEM priorities for 

both industry and education. 

The centre’s exhibits are aimed at all 

ages and are themed into six zones: 

Energy; Space; Life Sciences; Make It, 

Test It; and the dedicated area for the 

under-6s, as well as the Shell Learning 

Zone, where science, technology, 

engineering and mathematics (STEM) 

are brought to life. 

Aberdeen Science Centre’s £4.7million 

redevelopment was made possible by 

generous support and funding from 

the Inspiring Science Fund – a 

partnership between the Department 

for Business, Energy and Industrial 

Strategy (BEIS), UK Research and 

Innovation (UKRI) and Wellcome - 

with additional funding provided by 

Opportunity North East (ONE) and 

Aberdeen City Council. 

The project secured a further 

£1.5million from funders and sponsors 

including OPITO, Shell, Equinor, bp, 

The Robertson Trust, TAQA and 

CNOOC International to deliver quality 

exhibits and programmes to enhance 

the overall visitor experience at the 

venue, as well through outreach work. 

Advance booking is recommended at 

Aberdeen Science Centre. To find out 

more please visit 

https://aberdeensciencecentre.org/. 

Standard ticket prices apply. 

Adult Disability 

Payment - 

General Policy 

Date and Time 

Thursday 4th August, 10:30-12:30 

Wednesday 17th August, 10:30-12:30 

Location 

Online event 

Price 

Free 

Who is this event for? 

Stakeholders in Scotland who advise 

and support clients to claim Adult 

Disability Payment, for example; 

Welfare Rights Advisors, Financial 

Inclusion Staff, Health and Social Care 

Support Staff and Advocates. It would 

also be beneficial for those who work 

in policy, learning and development 

and communications teams. 

The events will include the following 

topics: 

Policy background 

Eligibility criteria 

Key differences between Personal 

Independence Payment and Adult 

Disability Payment 

Award and review periods 

Short-Term Assistance 

Accessible vehicles and equipment 

scheme 

Passported benefits 

Exportability 

To find out more and book, visit 

https://www.socialsecurity.gov.scot/n 

ews-events/events/adult-disabilitypayment-general-policy-2

NEWS 



12 

North East businesses club together 

over £12,000 for CFINE at Golf Day 

Charity golf day, hosted by Red Wing UK at Banchory Golf Club, raises more 

than £12,000 for Aberdeen charity CFINE. 

A 

berdeen based PPE provider, 

Red Wing, take further steps 

to support those in financial 

hardship by hosting it’s 2022 

Charity Golf Day in aid of 

CFINE - A North East charity aiming to 

improve health and well-being and the 

environment by tackling poverty and 

building resilience within the local 

community. 

The event took place above the banks 

of the River Dee at the picturesque par 

69, 18 hole Banchory Golf Course and 

welcomed a total of 72 golfers from a 

host of energy businesses across the 

North East. 

Sponsors from CNR, Energy Voice, 

Eureka, Parker Wellbore, Minto 

Branding, XIC, Ansell, ID&T, Crane, V12 

Footwear, Nippon Gas, Orn Clothing, 

Swire, UVEX, CR Smith, Globus, Shogun 

and Nightstick all helped to join the 

effort to maximise the donation and 

increase the reach of this much needed 

charity. 

Red Wing Shoe Company were the title 

sponsor, promoting their new range in 

Lightweight safety footwear on the day. 

Fiona Rae, Chief Executive of CFINE 

said: ‘The team at CFINE is delighted to 

receive this fantastic support from Red 

Wing. This generous contribution 

ensures we can continue to deliver the 

essential services across the priority 

communities we work with and 

maintain the vital support to the 

thousands of individuals and families 

experiencing ongoing financial 

insecurity and food poverty. Thank you 

to everyone at Red Wing UK Ltd for 

organising such an amazing fundraiser 

and for choosing CFINE as your 

supported charity – it is hugely 

appreciated’ 

Following on from the event, Jon 

Bodicoat, Managing Director Red Wing 

UK, said: ‘With the cost of living crisis, 

it’s so important that we do our bit to 

support both our staff and community 

during this difficult time. Working alone, 

we can only achieve so much and were 

delighted to get the support of so many 

suppliers and customers on the day to 

increase the prize pot.’ 

Jon continued ‘Following on from the 

success of this event, we are looking to 

make the Red Wing Golf Day an annual 

celebration of what the third sector is 

doing to support the community in 

which we live and work.’ 

Charities looking for support are 

encouraged to email 

charitygolfday@redwingshoes.com with 

their interest in becoming the 2023 

charity. If you are interested in 

becoming a volunteer with CFINE or 

making a donation, you can do so at 

www.cfine.org/get-involved or by 

calling 01224 596156. You can also 

support the charity's enterprise 

activities by purchasing a veg and fruit 

box, contact orders@cfine.org to do so.

Aberdeen Action on Disability 

Social and Activity Groups 

AAD Social Group meets every week 

at AAD from 1-3pm on Mondays. You 

can also join in via Zoom. 

AAD Book Group meets every 

fourth Sunday from 6pm on Zoom. 

AAD Gaming: 

Nintendo Night every second 

Thursday from 6pm on Zoom. 

Game fi Hame every second Saturday 

from 2pm on Zoom. 

Get in touch for more information: 

Call us - 01224 641355 

Email us - office@aad-online.com 

Find us on Facebook - aadsocialgroup / 

AADGamingGroups 

Registered Charity No: SC022271 

Company No: SC267622 

We're about people, 

not problems.

NEWS 



14 

Foyer Families Learning 

Programme 

Aberdeen Foyer are now recruiting for a 

Foyer Families Learning Programme in 

Aberdeen City, with Aberdeenshire courses 

also available. This unique, and completely 

free, course is aimed at any parents/carers 

of children under 12 years of age who wish 

to undertake flexible learning and gain 

nationally recognised qualifications whilst 

balancing family life. 

The Foyer Families course is part time over 

16 weeks, delivered via Zoom Tuesdays, 

Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am- 

2.30pm, which allows flexibility for 

parents. Learners will achieve a City & 

Guilds Extended Level 1 in Employability 

qualification which includes the following 5 

units – Managing Personal Finance, 

Effective Skills, Qualities & Attitudes for 

Work, Coping With Change, Developing 

Personal Confidence, and Contributing to 

Own Healthy Living. 

In addition, participants will gain 

certificates in Paediatric First Aid, Food 

Hygiene, Customer Service and Manual 

Handling. The rest of the course is largely 

built around mental health and self-care 

through participation in Mindfulness 

sessions, Tai Chi, Stretch & Tone keep fit, 

crafts and cooking. 

The team of coaches are PEEP Practitioner 

trained and deliver a number of sessions on 

Child Learning & Development covering a 

range of topics (e.g. Understanding & 

Managing Emotions & Behaviour, Learning 

through Play, The Home Learning 

Environment, Health & Wellbeing etc), 

which complements the rest of the course 

content and benefits the family as a whole. 

Towards the end of the course, we will 

focus on ‘What’s Next’ providing, Career 

Guidance, Mock Interviews and 

Employability/Further Education 

workshops to help identify and promote 

positive destinations for our clients. 

IT equipment (laptop/wifi) is provided free 

of charge for those that need it, as well as 

funded childcare (subject to 

availability/eligibility). IT support and 

training is provided throughout the course. 

The course is suitable for parents who wish 

to gain a better understanding of their 

child, improve self-confidence, learn 

valuable new skills, build relationships, and 

enjoy a meaningful team experience. 

If you would like to learn more about either 

course or have any questions about the 

referral process, please don’t hesitate to 

get in touch directly email: 

info@aberdeenfoyer.com

NEWS 



16 

MBE for VSA’S Chief Executive in 

Queen's Platinum Jubilee Honours 

The Chief Executive of Aberdeen social care charity VSA has been awarded 

an MBE in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Honours. 

Dr. Kenneth Simpson was 

made a Member of the 

British Empire for his 

services to people with 

disabilities in the North East of 

Scotland. Dr. Simpson previously 

worked at Guide Dogs before 

becoming Chief Executive at VSA. 

Over his career and in his personal 

time in a voluntary capacity Dr. 

Simpson has held various 

appointments on groups to influence 

and change local and national policy 

to help shape better outcomes for 

vulnerable people. 

The honour has also recognised Dr. 

Simpson for his leadership during the 

coronavirus pandemic. 

VSA– which celebrated its 150th 

anniversary in 2020 – helped protect 

the health and well-being of hundreds 

of vulnerable children and adults 

under Dr. Simpson’s leadership. The 

charity spent an extra £2 million in 

providing extra staff cover, increased 

PPE and other essential supplies to 

ensure everyone remained safe. 

Dr. Simpson, who took up his post in 

2004, said he was shocked and 

humbled by his recognition from 

Queen Elizabeth II, who is also the 

charity’s Patron. 

“I was absolutely overwhelmed when I 

received the letter of my award – it 

was a complete surprise. 

I’m delighted, of course, and 

honoured to have been nominated 

and awarded the MBE, but it’s as 

much an award for all my colleagues – 

both past and present – as it is for 

me.” 

VSA provides in excess of 2 million 

hours of care through its 22 facilities 

in the Northeast and supports 

vulnerable people from birth to end of 

life.

NEWS 



18 

Community 

Festival kicks off in 

style with biggest 

ever Sport di 

Strada tournament 

Aberdeen’s community festival kicked off in style on Friday 

with the return of Streetsport’s annual community 

tournament. 

The Sport di Strada, named in honour 

of Denis Law’s period of playing in 

Italy, brings together young people 

from around the city where Denis 

Law Legacy Trust operates in to 

compete against each other. 

It marked the opening of the 2022 

Denis Law Legacy Trust Community 

Festival, a nine-day event at 

Aberdeen Sports Village offering 

entirely free family sport and 

activities. 

Speaking to STV News about the 

festival, Streetsport Development 

Manager Hannah Clews said this year 

was “all about getting families out 

doing stuff together”. 

"The climate at the moment is harder 

for families to have that disposable 

income so hopefully by making all the 

activities free, which is consistent 

across the charity’s programme, it’s 

easier to attend”. 

For the first time there were two age 

categories in the Sport di Strada with 

a new shield representing the 12-14 

youngsters and the existing trophy 

being lifted by the 15-18 age group. 

12 teams and over 80 young people 

were represented in two leagues 

which amounted to Northfield being 

victorious in both categories against 

their Torry counterparts. 

All of the games were played in high 

spirits, both friendly and competitive, 

with many close games including a 

penalty shoot-out to decide the Sport 

di Strada Shield plus a 4-1 victory to 

claim the Sport di Strada Trophy. 

The awards were handed out by 

Aberdeen FC’s greatest ever player, 

Willie Miller, alongside the club’s next 

rising star, Connor Barron. 

Co-Op Aberdeen supplied 

refreshments for the event with fresh 

fruit and water while Central Coaches 

provided free transport for all the 

teams. 

For more images of the event please 

view here.

NEWS 



20 

Wolfson Foundation Boosts Camphill School 

Aberdeen’s Capital Appeal with £100,000 Grant 

Camphill School Aberdeen, a 

charity that provides day 

and residential support to 

children and young people 

with learning disabilities and 

complex additional support needs is a 

step closer towards its £10 million 

capital appeal after receiving a 

£100,000 injection from the Wolfson 

Foundation. 

The grant is to go towards the charity’s 

new residential house with independent 

living wing. The home will enable the 

charity to open its doors to more 

vulnerable young people in our 

community who are in urgent need of 

support. 

The Wolfson Foundation is an 

independent charity committed to 

research and education – with a focus 

on science, health, heritage, humanities 

and the arts. 

Alex Busch, Executive Director of 

Camphill School Aberdeen, said: “This is 

an extremely generous grant from the 

Wolfson Foundation which will directly 

benefit the young people in our care, 

both now and into the future. The new 

residential house is the cornerstone of 

the first phase of our £10 million capital 

appeal and this award is a significant 

milestone towards making 

that a reality. 

Currently, the demand for 

our services far exceeds our 

capacity. The only way to 

help more young people in 

the north-east is to bring 

our plans to life. We want 

to ensure that every young 

person who needs our 

support can access it and 

this award will help us 

Camphill School Aberdeen student Kier at site of the 

exciting build with model of new residential house 

achieve our vision.” 

Since the Foundation’s establishment in currently supported by Camphill School 

1955, it has awarded over £1 billion to Aberdeen. They often struggle in 

more than 12,000 projects throughout mainstream education and other care 

the UK. 

options - but thrive at the charity. 

Regardless of their abilities, the children 

Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive of 

and young people grow in confidence, 

the Wolfson Foundation said: “Wolfson 

independence and fulfil their potential – 

first supported the Camphill movement 

often achieving outcomes their families 

in the 1960s, and we are delighted to 

never thought possible. 

contribute funding to this much-needed 

new residential development in 

The school’s unique approach integrates 

Aberdeen – the site of the first Camphill education, lifelong learning, and expert 

School – for young people with learning care within a therapeutic environment 

disabilities. These facilities will play a as part of a shared living community 

vital role in helping young people with with onsite medical support. 

complex needs to live with greater Alex continued: “Since launching phase 

independence." 

one of the capital appeal in February, 

More than 95 young people are 

we have raised a fantastic £1,855,000 

but still need the support of the local 

community and businesses to raise the 

remaining 40% to fulfil our vision.” 

Find out more about the Capital Appeal 

and how you can help, here - Capital 

Appeal | Camphill School 

(camphillschools.org.uk) 

Students, Duncan, Dale and Becky with model of Camphill School Aberdeen’s new residential house

21 



NEWS 

Langstane Housing Association rolls out 

electric pool car for employee use 

Langstane Housing 

Association is proud to 

accept delivery of their first 

electric pool car for 

employees to use, replacing 

the organisation’s current petrol 

vehicle. This has been done with the 

long term aim of reducing fuel 

mileage costs and Co2 emissions 

generated by business travel. 

This follows the Association’s 

successful application for grant 

funding in 2018 to purchase an 

electrical charging point at the 

Association’s headquarters, 680 King 

Street, Aberdeen. The charging point 

allows local tenants and others to 

travel in a more cost effective and 

environmentally friendly manner. 

Plans to replace the Association’s 

existing vans and car with electrical 

versions were put on hold during the 

pandemic but are now being 

advanced. Property Manager Claire 

McEleny said “It’s a 

fantastic benefit for staff 

to have access to an 

electrical vehicle and 

charging infrastructure. 

This enables the 

Association to undertake 

fundamental works within 

our communities and 

customer homes whilst 

doing so in an eco friendly manner”. 

For Langstane Housing Association, 

sustainability is about ensuring the 

decisions and actions taken today are 

underpinned by a consideration of 

how such decisions and actions 

impact the world in the future. 

Chief Executive Helen Gauld said: 

“Introducing an electric pool car is an 

important step in demonstrating our 

commitment to delivering cost 

effective services in a sustainable 

manner. 

We can see that having 

environmentally-compatible vehicles 

is a viable business model, allowing 

us to reduce our carbon footprint and 

provide our team with an eco friendly 

mode of transport that is perfect for 

our business requirements.” 

Local schoolboy happy to be helping 

disabled adults 

Zac Mackenzie (12), a young 

volunteer, is new to volunteering for 

Future Choices, a local voluntary led 

charity which supports disabled 

adults gain social inclusion which 

improves the health & well-being of 

some of our most vulnerable 

members in our community. 

Zac is fundraising to help Future 

Choice's cause. The young volunteer 

is currently doing his Saltire Awards, 

and has been awarded 25 hours so 

far. 

He has launched his text appeal & is 

appealing to the public to donate £3 

from their mobile phones. 

Please text FutureChoices 

to 70085 to donate £3 

today (text costs the 

donation plus your 

standard network rate). 

Watch Zac appeal to the public in his 

very first appeal film - 

https://youtu.be/BSOIwz1MnSE 

Please spread the word about Zac's 

appeal so that he can raise as much 

funds as possible to be able to 

support Future Choices. 

Your text makes a difference!

NEWS 



22 

After last year's success, The Community Garden Festival returns to 

Aberdeen this August with a jam-packed programme of outdoor-themed 

events for all to enjoy. 

Taking place between the 8th and 

14th of August across the city, the 

Festival will see the return of popular 

events including bike tours, open 

days, harvesting, gardening, market 

stalls and workshops run by multiple 

third sector organisations. A full list 

of events and details can be found 

in the event brochure. 

#GARDENFES 

The Community Garden Festival 

is planned and organised by the 

Granite City Growing 

Implementation Group, as part of 

the Granite City Good Food, 

Aberdeen City's Sustainable 

Food Places Partnership. 

The Festival is supported by Aberdeen City Council and is 

organised by a wide variety of partners.

23 



NEWS 

View and download the 

Event Brochure here 

TABERDEEN 

Share your 

2022 Festival 

highlights using 

#GardenFest 

Aberdeen 

View the Digital 

Garden Map here 

CONTACT 

2-4 Poynernook Road, Aberdeen, AB11 5RW 

01224 596156 

MCarle@cfine.org 

www.granitecitygoodfood.org

NEWS 



24 

Aberdeen Cyrenians and Deloitte 

announce new partnership for social 

impact and successful futures 

Aberdeen Cyrenians, a local charity 

that cares for and supports 

vulnerable people in the North East, 

has today announced that it has been 

successful in its bid to become a 

charity partner for professional 

services firm, Deloitte. 

Having been selected by Deloitte’s 

people based out of the firm’s 

Aberdeen office, the new partnership 

will benefit local people across the 

region as part of Deloitte’s 5 Million 

Futures responsible business 

programme. The programme aims to 

help five million people get to where 

they want to be through access to 

education and employment. 

The partnership will see Deloitte 

offer wide ranging support including 

fundraising, volunteering and pro 

bono business advice. 

Chris Bennett-Taylor, CEO of 

Aberdeen Cyrenians, said: “We are 

delighted to be partnering with 

Deloitte’s 5 Million Futures 

programme. The initiative will make 

support available to our organisation 

in a number of ways but will 

ultimately help us build hope, health 

and happiness with the vulnerable 

people we work with. It is lovely to 

be working with an organisation that 

is serious about social impact and 

making a difference in the local 

community.” 

As part of the partnership, Deloitte’s 

people will be volunteering with the 

charity to offer their time and skills 

across a number of services. The 

charity has recently celebrated being 

honoured with the Queen’s Award 

for Voluntary Service in 2021. 

Shaun Reynolds, Office Senior 

Partner for Deloitte in Aberdeen, 

added: 

“I am delighted our people have 

chosen Aberdeen Cyrenians as our 

new charity partner. The charity’s 

work to shift perceptions and change 

the outlook for the most vulnerable 

in society is very much aligned with 

our social impact strategy of changing 

futures through access to education, 

employment and inclusion. 

“Partnering with charitable 

organisations in the locations in 

which we operate not only gives our 

people the opportunity to support 

their communities, but it also helps us 

develop our skills and knowledge, 

enabling us to deliver more inclusive 

services to our clients. I know my 

colleagues are looking forward to 

working with the team at Aberdeen 

Cyrenians over the next three years 

to make an impact that matters.” 

Aberdeen Cyrenians is one of 12 new 

charity partnerships across Deloitte’s 

nations and regions, joining 10 

charities who have renewed their 

existing partnerships with Deloitte. 

Deloitte’s Edinburgh office also has a 

new partnership with the Scottish 

Association for Mental Health 

(SAMH) while Deloitte’s Glasgow 

office continues its partnership with 

Move On. 

Deloitte’s charity partnerships will 

support its WorldClass ambition to 

improve 100 million futures globally 

by 2030.

25 



NEWS 

Community Active 

Travel Support Service 

Research shows that people from marginalised communities are less likely to embrace active travel (walking, 

wheeling and cycling). Which is why our new service puts these communities first when it comes to 

encouraging people to walk, wheel and cycle more. 

The benefits of walking and cycling 

for everyday journeys are well 

documented. 

Evidence also shows that people 

from marginalised communities are 

less likely to use active travel to get 

around their local areas. Now there’s 

a new Sustrans Scotland programme 

which aims to bring about a change. 

Community Active Travel Support 

Service (CATSS) has been developed 

to help third sector organisations 

encourage walking, wheeling and 

cycling in marginalised communities. 

Who can apply? 

Community organisations that wish 

to set up an active travel project (or 

develop an existing one) focusing on 

people in areas in the lowest 10 and 

20% of the Scottish Index of Multiple 

Deprivation. 

Community organisations that wish 

to set up an active travel project (or 

develop an existing one) aimed at a 

specific group which experiences 

inequality. For example, older people, 

disabled people. ethnic minorities, 

and women. 

If your organisation does not fit into 

either of these categories then you 

can still apply to take part in the 

Activate Mentoring programme, 

where community organisations 

experienced in running active travel 

projects can provide advice and 

support to those who are less 

experienced. 

Sustrans Communities Team can also 

provide occasional support to any 

community organisation based in 

Scotland. You can contact them via 

email at 

communities.team@sustrans.org.uk. 

What does it involve? 

Staff and volunteers of organisations 

who sign up will receive three to six 

months of in-depth support to set up 

or develop initiatives that will 

encourage more people in their 

community to walk, wheel or cycle 

more. 

This can also include assistance to 

connect with other Sustrans teams 

and active travel organisations, as 

well as organisations such as Third 

Sector Interfaces and Equality 

Councils who may be able to provide 

further support. 

If required, organisations taking part 

will also be able to access free 

training in skills such as fundraising, 

community engagement, and 

evaluation to develop the capacity of 

their organisation. 

What type of projects are eligible? 

Any project that will encourage 

people in your community to walk 

wheel or cycle either directly or 

indirectly will be considered for 

support. 

It could be something like running a 

small walking group, through to a 

whole range of activities, such as bike 

libraries, making public space more 

pleasant to walk though or sit in, 

litter picking, or public art projects. 

We know that the purpose of the 

activity may not always be to get 

people moving, for example: 

A walking group may be set up to 

reduce social isolation for older 

people. 

A growing project in a low income 

area might aim to raise awareness of 

climate change but in the process 

create a place people want to walk, 

wheel or cycle to. 

A project to help women with mental 

or physical health issues might start a 

regular cycle ride. 

A bike library scheme may be set up 

to help people of ethnic minorities 

access employment and services. 

The main things is that the project 

includes an element of walking, 

wheeling, or cycling, or makes 

walking, wheeling or cycling easier or 

more attractive for the people you 

work with. 

How to apply 

Just read the guidance and then fill in 

the quick and easy expression of 

interest form at 

https://bit.ly/3zivhVC



26 

shmu announce details of 

an exciting 

new era of 

digital 

broadcasting 

for Aberdeen 

and two opportunities to 

join their growing team

27 



Station House Media Unit (shmu), 

has this week been awarded a new 

small-scale DAB radio multiplex 

licence for Aberdeen North from 

Ofcom. 

The new Small Scale DAB platform 

will carry up to twenty different 

stations in digital quality and will 

provide an affordable long-term 

digital future for many existing 

broadcasters, as well as offering a 

platform to support local 

broadcasters to flourish. 

Community, hospital and student 

radio alongside smaller commercial 

broadcasters and specialist 

national networks will all feature 

on the platform. 

shmu’s Chief Executive Murray 

Dawson said “Having launched our 

own FM community radio station 

almost 15 years ago, we are using 

our extensive local knowledge to 

create partnerships between a 

wide variety of broadcasters 

organisations and individuals who 

will all benefit from this exciting 

new technology. We already have 

expressions of interest from the 

city’s universities and college as 

well as Grampian Hospital Radio 

and Community Radio stations 

Mearns FM and Buchan Radio. We 

are keen to hear from other 

broadcasters, both local and those 

from further afield, who might be 

interested in joining us on the 

platform. We have 18 months 

from the award of the licence to 

start the exciting new service, so 

we estimate that it will be up and 

running by the end of 2023.” 

The announcement and planned 

forthcoming development 

illustrate shmu’s ongoing 

commitment to expanding the 

reach of their work and to 

providing opportunities for 

individuals and communities 

across the region. To further 

realise this goal, shmu is currently 

"We are using our 

extensive local 

knowledge to create 

partnerships 

between a wide 

variety of 

broadcasters 

organisations and 

individuals who will 

all benefit from this 

exciting new 

technology." 

M U R R A Y D A W S O N 

C H I E F E X E C U T I V E , S H M U



28 

recruiting a Community 

Development Manager to oversee 

all the community-focussed work 

the organisation delivers and to 

help increase their presence across 

Aberdeen’s priority localities and 

communities. 

Murray continued, “As the 

restrictions continue to ease and 

more is happening in our 

communities, we plan to play a key 

role in helping to re-energising 

things. Our brand-new Community 

Development Manager post will 

oversee this work, playing a key role 

in re-engaging with our 

communities and leading all 

community engagement and 

outreach services across our 

organisation. With the current cost 

of living crisis and the difficulties 

encountered in the aftermath of the 

covid pandemic, this post will be 

pivotal to help our organisation 

support our communities to meet 

these growing challenges.” 

"We are 

investing in our 

communities 

and responding 

to their needs, 

which is at the 

heart of every 

decision shmu 

makes.” 

Despite the challenges faced by the 

third sector over recent years, shmu 

has continued to innovate and push 

boundaries, making the most of 

opportunities as they arise. 

Alongside the increase in demand 

for its services, shmu has seen a 

growth in its contracted and income 

generating work which has enabled 

the organisation to invest in areas 

that it feels are important, without 

the need to depend completely on 

funding applications. 

An example of this has been the 

development and delivery of shmu’s 

Foundation Apprenticeship 

programme across Aberdeenshire. 

Having delivered a pilot Creative & 

Digital Media Foundation 

Apprenticeship with 18 pupils from 

Westhill Academy in 2019, the 

organisation now delivers this 

qualification in 7 schools across the 

region and are also now delivering 

the Foundation Apprenticeships in 

IT Software and IT Hardware –

29 



working with over 120 pupils in the 

new academic year. By securing this 

contract the organisation has been 

able to build and broaden the skill 

base of its staff team, while 

generating an unrestricted surplus 

that it can invest in other important 

areas of the organisation’s work. 

In order to support this expanding 

area of shmu’s work, the 

organisation is recruiting a Training 

and Qualifications Manager. This 

new role will play an important role, 

ensuring that the Foundation 

Apprenticeship programmes are 

designed, managed and delivered to 

the highest standards through 

robust quality assurance and 

performance management. They 

will also be responsible for the 

development and delivery of shmu’s 

formal SQA accredited qualification 

programmes across the 

organisation, playing a pivotal role 

in realising shmu’s ambitions for the 

future of the organisation’s 

accredited provision. 

Reflecting on the new additions to 

shmu’s staff team, Murray Dawson 

said “We are investing in our 

communities and responding to 

their needs, which is at the heart of 

every decision shmu makes. These 

two exciting new posts will be 

integral to our efforts to reengage 

and reenergise our communities, 

helping give voice to residents of 

Aberdeen and increasing the reach 

and impact of the organisation’s 

work across the region.” 

Further information about the 

vacancies and details of how you 

can apply can be found on pages 59 

and 60 as well as online at 

acvo.org.uk/vacancies. 

Applications for both positions 

close on Sun 14th August. 

Find out more about shmu at 

shmu.org.uk

Create Aberdeen are a 

charity based in 

community centres 

across the city who 

provide activities, 

support and 

opportunities for 

adults with learning 

disabilities. 

www.createaberdeen.org 


Create 

Aberdeen 


ACVO visited Create Aberdeen at Inchgarth 

Community Centre on their final Friday Disco before a 

well deserved two-week Summer break. We spoke to 

several people, from service users to volunteers, 

about the benefits of the charity and how they make 

a difference within Aberdeen communities. 

www.facebook.com/create.aberdeen 

@CreateMAA 

30

31 



Alex Constantinides 

Service Development Manager and co-founder of Create Aberdeen 

"W 

e started up to 

provide inclusive 

activities for people 

with learning 

disabilities where we 

really wanted to be within 

communities rather than having 

segregated services. The 

community centres that we use 

are Inchgarth, Hilton and Airyhall. 

They have all been so welcoming 

and it has worked really well. I 

think a lot of people thought 

Create wasn't going to work 

originally but no, it has been 

brilliant. 

"We do a mix of creative activities, 

just to get people learning new skills 

and, most importantly, to have fun. A 

lot of our service users say they come 

to have fun which is great to hear!" 

The major benefits for people that 

come along to Create Aberdeen is 

the fact that they get to get out 

the house, make new friends and 

to do something that's fun and 

stimulating. We also tailor the 

activities to make it more 

individualised to each group so 

that everyone gains something 

from the activity. I think that helps 

people's confidence as well by 

seeing that they can achieve 

things that other people are 

doing. We just take it a bit more 

slowly or get that extra support to 

ensure that everyone can join in. 

"When COVID hit, we did think 'Ok, 

this is going to be it. We're not going 

to be able to get back up and 

running,' because we couldn't see how 

it was feasible. Amazingly, it's 

actually worked out really well." 

Of course the pandemic has not 

been a great time. A lot of service 

users really did feel isolated and 

this had quite a negative impact 

on carers as well. However, we 

managed to keep our services 

going through utilising the 

Internet and delivering online 

classes. A lot of people joined in and 

we actually attracted new people 

from that time period also. We had 

income coming in from this and also 

applied for funding and furlough 

money so we managed to get 

through the pandemic. 

Create Aberdeen is about meeting 

people, getting out the house and 

having a routine and having 

something that you're looking 

forward to in the day. Just the 

confidence that people get from 

trying different activities. A couple 

of the service users were talking 

about the rock band and just being 

able to think 'Right ok, I've got a 

disability but I can play guitar in a 

band or I can play drums in a band.' 

Nothing is impossible and when they 

see other people go up on stage 

dancing or acting, they know that 

those people have disabilities. They 

see themselves and think 'They can 

Alex 

do it. You know, I can do it too!' 

"That's what we encourage: 

people to not have those barriers 

and to not think 'I can't do that.' 

It's all about being positive." 

Greg ,who volunteers with us , is a 

very positive role model for other 

people because he's out there 

helping his friends, setting up the 

groups, acting on stage. Whatever 

he's doing, he's role modelling: 'I've 

got a learning disability, but I can do 

all this.' It's great. 

The welcome you get when you 

come into a group at Create has to 

be one of the most rewarding parts 

of my role. You get cheered, a hug 

from people and you just feel that 

you belong here. It is just so 

welcoming. Everybody is pleased to 

see everyone else and it makes you 

feel good. Also, I get to dance about 

and join in too!"

Craig, Greg and Finlay 

Service Users & Volunteer 



32 

"I’m Craig and I come to Create 

Aberdeen. I learnt about them 

on the Internet and then I got 

involved and started coming 

along to their classes. 

It was good during the 

pandemic because we had 

online classes so that got me 

involved even more. 

"My favourite thing to do at 

Create Aberdeen would have to 

be drama and rock band, being 

around my friends and just 

having fun every single day." 

I go to lots of different classes 

during the week: drama on a 

Monday, drumming on a 

Tuesday at Inchgarth, dancing 

on a Wednesday at Inchgarth 

and on a Friday we are going to 

start the rock band which I am 

really looking forward to." 

Craig 

"I’m Greg Brands and I’m a 

volunteer for Create 

Aberdeen. 

"I like coming to Create 

and doing all sorts of 

different activities: 

drumming, singing, dancing, 

Makaton and having fun!" 

Create Aberdeen helps the 

service users get involved in 

all these activities and more. I 

think Create is really 

important to its users as it 

helps them get out and about 

and have a change of scene. 

My favourite thing about 

volunteering at Create is 

being around my friends, 

seeing and meeting other 

people and getting to know 

everyone at the sessions." 

Greg 

"Hello, my name’s Finlay. I 

have just recently been 

coming to Create Aberdeen 

and I find it really fun. 

I enjoy going to the drumming 

group and I have just recently 

started going to Feel Good 

Friday. I have only been going 

to Feel Good Friday for a 

short time so I would 

probably say... 

"...drumming is my favourite 

class because I get to do that 

with my mates and it’s a 

really good laugh." 

I have met a lot of new friends 

here at Create Aberdeen and 

you get to socialise a lot more. 

You’re not just stuck in the 

house all the time and I'm 

able to get out and to do 

activities which I really enjoy 

doing." 

Finlay

33 



Jack Skinner 

Relief Support Worker 

"I'm Jack and I have been with 

Create since August 2021. I started 

off as a volunteer and then saw they 

were accepting applications, went 

for an interview and then 

successfully got taken on as a Relief 

Support Worker. I have enjoyed my 

time at Create even though I have 

only been with them for under a 

year. It has been great fun so far and 

there's lots of great people that I 

come into contact with. 

I am fairly new to this type of role as 

a Relief Support Worker. I have a 

sister who has special needs so I 

have been involved with her a lot. 

However, I haven't done much in 

terms of care-work with others until 

now. It's a new experience for me 

and I am getting on great with it. 

"Create Aberdeen gives our clients 

a place to meet and socialise. We 

deliver a variety of activities which 

allows them to have time away 

from their carers and parents. This 

also gives them some freedom and 

independence, something to enjoy 

and to look forward to." 

Before the pandemic, we had a rock 

band which we are managing to get 

back up and running after the 

summer holidays. We also do 

Makaton choir, discos, music, 

singing, dancing... lots of creative 

activities! 

I like seeing the clients being happy 

and enjoying themselves which 

makes me feel good as well. It's very 

rewarding. Everyday brings new 

opportunities and there's a lot of 

variety in my role. I also enjoy 

helping and seeing the difference I 

make to the clients through my 

work. It's a fantastic group of 

people, a great community and the 

clients are all friendly and amazing." 

"I'm Gail Sangster and I have Finlay 

who is a 16-year-old with Cerebral 

Palsy. 

We came and tried out Create 

Aberdeen around April/May time 

while Finlay was on study leave. Six 

weeks of not being in school was 

quite difficult for him. After finishing 

study leave, Finlay returned to 

school to start his Highers but now, 

over the summer, we are back. 

"Create Aberdeen is great 

because it gives something for 

Finlay to do socially." 

I think having a disability can be 

difficult for youngsters his age to be 

able to socialise with people. He 

goes to a mainstream school, which I 

think makes it even more isolating. 

As much as the school try very hard, 

Finlay's needs means he has to go 

elsewhere to get fed and such like. 

So socially, he finds life quite 

demanding. To come to somewhere 

like Create Aberdeen, 

and in terms of social 

impact, Finlay is having 

the time of his life. The 

two boys he has 

become friends with have very 

quickly taken him onboard and 

given him that smile back in his face 

which has been lovely. 

"Finlay is happier in himself, 

mental health wise. COVID was 

really, really difficult for him." 

Not being able to have that same 

connection with people. For 

example, he wasn't able to go for a 

walk with his pals in the fresh air so 

he was really isolated. To see him 

coming along to this, having that 

smile back on his face, his 

confidence growing, chatting to 

different people and enjoying 

himself: it’s great to see. 

The first week of coming along, I just 

sat in awe of the volunteers: what 

they do, the setup that they have 

got, the space that they have and 

their drive to make it fun and 

engaging for people. It is 

really inspiring to see. 

As a mum watching Finlay 

gets his 

spark back has been 

incredible. He loves every 

minute of being at Create 

Gail Sangster 

Parent 

and literally can't wait until the next 

class. He loves Tuesdays for the 

drumming: 'Oh it's drumming 

today!' Then come the holidays, 

Finlay downloads the timetable and 

he says, 'Mum, this is what I want to 

do.' Just him being more 

independent and knowing what he 

would like to do has really boosted 

his confidence. 

To know that when he has finished 

school, and if he doesn't go to 

college, there's something for him 

which I think is really important. 

Something that is fun and sociable. 

It doesn't always have to be 

educational for them although 

Create doing amazing educational 

things with the clients as well. It's 

meant a lot to know there's 

something else for his future. 

"Create Aberdeen is a really 

fantastic charity and it's done a 

lot from a volunteer basis." 

If anyone's got some free time, come 

along, support them and see the 

difference they make to the service 

users. It definitely warms your 

heart."



34 

POSITIVE CHANGE 

THROUGH FOOTBALL 

STREET 

SOCCER 

SCOTLAND 

STREET SOCCER SCOTLAND USES 

FOOTBALL INSPIRED TRAINING AND 

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AS A MEDIUM 

TO EMPOWER PEOPLE WHO ARE 

AFFECTED BY SOCIAL EXCLUSION 

Street Soccer Scotland's 

programmes are in place to 

help socially excluded men and 

women across the country feel 

better about themselves and 

their future, using football as the 

tool for building connections, 

breaking down barriers and 

making positive changes. 

New players are welcome at all 

times to their free weekly 

sessions which are hosted year 

round. Currently in Aberdeen, 

Street Soccer offer sessions for 

kids on Mondays and Thursday, 

walking football on Wednesdays 

and Fridays, mixed adult 

sessions Tuesday and Thursday 

and their women’s only 

programme runs every Friday. 

All sessions take place at Goals 

on Great Southern Road in 

Kincorth. 

A key focus of the work of Street 

Soccer is to support the mental 

health and wellbeing of players, 

and with 1 in 4 Scots 

experiencing mental health 

issues in their lifetime, there has 

never been a greater need for 

action. As well as encouraging 

healthy habits to form by 

engaging in regular sport and 

exercise, the Street Soccer team 

also take steps to ensure that 

those who need support can 

access it as soon as they can. 

"I THINK FOOTBALL 

IS GREAT FOR 

MENTAL HEALTH 

because it gets you out of the 

house and gets you amongst 

people” said Peter Wood, 

Development Officer for Street 

Soccer Scotland in Aberdeen.

35 



“You’re part of a team so you are 

working together to find 

solutions on as well as off of the 

park. 

“Football is only 30% of what we 

do at Street Soccer Scotland, 

the other 70% is the 

development aspect – this could 

be in the form of helping with a 

housing application, a family 

crisis or any other challenges our 

players are facing. 

“Football is the hook; once you 

get involved you become part of 

a community and become part 

of a team. I’m really proud to be 

part of that.” 

By supporting a number of 

different groups at risk of social 

exclusion, such as those 

experiencing homelessness, 

those with additional needs and 

those with refugee status, Street 

Soccer aims to be part of the 

solution in creating a more 

inclusive society. 

Speaking from personal 

experience, CEO & Founder of 

Street Soccer David Duke states 

“The effects of poverty are brutal 

and devastate communities. 

Living in this environment 

means people are faced with a 

lack of opportunity, which leads 

to a lack of hope. 

I have experienced this and can 

only describe it as being locked 

in a cold and dark room with no 

doors. Waking up everyday with 

a feeling of hopelessness can 

lead to poor mental health, 

addiction, crime and in some 

cases death.” 

“That is why we are totally 

inclusive, respectful, and 

understanding while offering 

opportunity to anyone who 

needs it. We do not impose a 

time limit or any other 

expectations, only reassurance 

that we are here to inspire 

people to be all they can be.” 

Recently receiving support from 

the Scottish Government’s 

Communities Mental Health & 

Wellbeing Fund, which was 

distributed in the Aberdeen area 

by ACVO, Street Soccer’s 

programmes of work have been 

invaluable in bringing people 

together in the city. 

This sentiment was captured in 

our recent short film, where 

players and members of the 

Street Soccer support team 

spoke openly about their 

personal experiences and how 

the programme has enabled 

positive change in their lives.



36 

And, as the programme goes 

from strength to strength in 

Aberdeen, Street Soccer 

Scotland are on the lookout for 

new players to join the 

community. 

“Street Soccer Scotland has no 

age limit, we are inclusive and 

have an open door policy – we 

work with everybody and 

anybody” said Peter when asked 

about why he thought the 

organisation was so important 

for the city. 

“We take time with our players, 

consider their circumstances 

and show respect to them. We 

accommodate all needs and our 

work really helps to break down 

barriers and can offer additional 

support or advice if people need 

it. 

“Through attending the sessions, 

players have the opportunity to 

develop their skills and 

confidence. We champion 

supporting and getting behind 

people. 

“For example, we have the Street 

Soccer Nations Cup tournament 

in Dundee coming up soon, 

with eight different nations 

competing from around the 

globe and I’ve just spoken to 

three of our players to say we 

are going to send them along 

for the trials – that’s a life 

changing opportunity to get the 

chance to represent your home 

country. 

“I’ve seen real growth and 

development with the players 

both on and off the pitch – we 

always finish ten minutes early 

so they can get a bit of a banter 

and a chat before they leave. 

Yes, it can get quite passionate - 

it’s Scottish football. But once 

they leave the park they are 

laughing and joking have that 

sense of achievement from 

having done something really 

positive and really inspiring for 

themselves”. 

FOOTBALL IS THE 

HOOK - ONCE 

YOU GET 

INVOLVED YOU 

BECOME PART OF 

A COMMUNITY 

AND BECOME 

PART OF A TEAM. 

I’M REALLY 

PROUD TO BE 

PART OF THAT. 

Peter Wood, Development Officer 

Street SoccerScotland 

More information about the work of Street Soccer Scotland is available at 

streetsoccerscotland.org. 

To find out more about the sessions in Aberdeen, please get in touch with 

Programme Coordinator for Aberdeen, Peter Wood on 07487 603708 or email 

peter@streetsoccerscotland.org

VOLUNTEERING 



38 

Volunteering 

August update from ACVO's Volunteering Services Manager, Mike Melvin 

Find out more at volunteeraberdeen.org.uk 

Fantastic support show to launch of 

Volunteering 

Action Plan 

ACVO was delighted to 

participate in the superb 

launch of the Volunteering 

Action Plan for Scotland at the 

Gathering Event in June along with over 

250 individuals all dedicated to 

volunteering. 

Speaking at the launch Shona Robison 

MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Social 

Justice, Housing and Local Government 

highlighted the importance of 

volunteers stating “the contribution of 

volunteers in the recent past has been 

exceptional; we owe all volunteers a 

debt of gratitude for all that they have 

done and continue to do.” Key themes 

from the launch event workshop 

discussions included Space for 

innovation; Power of a network; 

Learning culture; Trust from funders; 

Adaptability; Space for innovation. 

Since the launch, involvement in the 

Plan has continued to increase greatly 

and make a real difference for 

volunteering. There have been more 

than 200 mentions and shares of the 

Plan on social media and online with 

almost 2K interactions reaching over 

700K online users. More than 100 new 

individuals/organisations have signed 

up to get more involved in the Action 

Plan going forward showing 

tremendous support and commitment 

for the Volunteering Action Plan and in 

building volunteering. 

The Plan is the result of great 

collaboration led by the Scottish 

Government and involving hundreds of 

people across Scotland, Volunteer 

Scotland, local Third Sector Interfaces, 

local and national voluntary groups, 

public partners all dedicated to 

volunteering. It will create a Scotland 

where everyone can volunteer, more 

often, and throughout their lives, with 

47 ‘actions on the ground’ identified to 

support and further build the amazing 

and crucial contribution volunteers 

make over the next decade. It is a living 

plan and there will be continued 

opportunities to review, refresh and 

take forward new actions to advance 

volunteering. 

Over the coming months the Scottish 

Government, Volunteer Scotland and 

key partners will be working on putting 

in place the architecture that will deliver 

the Plan. ACVO will keep everyone in 

Aberdeen up to date of developments 

and ongoing opportunities for 

involvement to progress the Action Plan 

and the wonderful volunteering we 

have in Aberdeen and across Scotland. 

The Volunteering Action Plan is 

available at 

volunteeringactionplan.co.uk 

and you can also join in, get involved, 

pledge your support and receive 

further updates at: 

volunteeringactionplan.co.uk/getinvolved

39 



VOLUNTEERING 

Find out more at 

volunteeringactionplan.co.uk

VOLUNTEERING 



40 

Volunteer Scotland 

BOOK YOUR NEXT INTERACTIVE 

LEARNING BITES SESSION NOW! 

The latest range of online interactive learning bites from Volunteer 

Scotland are open for bookings now! The sessions cover topics from 

their face to face training courses. 

These learning bites are 2 hour live sessions delivered by one of 

Volunteer Scotland Practice Team via Zoom and cover a range of topics 

to help ensure your organisation gets the most from volunteering. 

Feb 

Wed 7th Sept | Wed 23rd Nov 

This session will focus on resources to support a volunteer 

programme and look at what should be included in a volunteer policy. 

Thu 22nd Sept | Tue 29th Nov 

This session is for practitioners to come together to share practice 

and look at good practice, focusing on how to develop volunteer roles 

and create role descriptions. 

Thu 4th August | Wed 5th Oct 

This session will be focusing on how to develop a positive volunteer 

induction. 

Tues 30th Aug | Tue 8th Nov 

This session will be focusing on how to involve 

and match volunteers to roles/tasks. 

Thur 8th Dec 

This session will explain the purpose and benefits 

of a volunteering strategy.

41 



VOLUNTEERING 

Wed 17th Aug | Thu 3rd Nov 

This session is for practitioners to come together to 

share practice and look at good practice. Identify and 

apply the right support methods for the individual. 

We aim to make all online sessions interactive. 

Tues 9th Aug | Wed 19th Oct 

This session is for practitioners to come together to share practice and 

look at good practice, focusing on how to managing volunteer difficult 

situations. We aim to make all online sessions interactive. 

Feb 

Thu 13th Oct | Thu 15th Dec 

The aim of this session is to raise the awareness of mental health and 

wellbeing within our volunteer programmes. 

Wed 17th Aug | Wed 26th Oct. 

This session is for practitioners to come together to share practice and 

look at good practice. We aim to make all online sessions interactive. 

Tue 13th Sept | Thu 17th Nov. 

This session will be focusing on your organisations volunteer culture 

and how aspects of culture might impact upon someone’s experience 

of volunteering. 

INTERACTIVE LEARNING BITES COSTS 

ESTIMATED ANNUAL ORGANISATION INCOME 

COST PER DELEGATE & TRAINING SESSION 

LESS THAN £100K 

FREE 

BETWEEN £100K - £500K £22.00 

OVER £500K £35.00 BOOK ONLINE AT 

VOLUNTEERSCOTLAND.NET

VOLUNTEERING 



42 

Voluntary Board Members wanted 

for Langstane Housing Association 

Do you believe in the delivery 

of high quality services that 

can and do improve 

people’s lives on a daily basis? 

Have you experience in any of the 

following – finance, audit and 

performance management, housing 

management and construction, health 

and safety, the legal system, property 

maintenance, social justice, human 

resources, equalities, or marketing? 

Are you willing to give up some of your 

free time to become part of the 

governing body of a locally based but 

ambitious housing association? 

Langstane Housing Association is a 

charitable registered social landlord that 

provides homes and services to 

approximately 2,900 households across 

the North-East of Scotland. 

With its main office in Aberdeen and a 

satellite office in Elgin, the Association 

is looking to enhance and strengthen 

the diversity of its Board of 

Management. 

As a member of the Board, you will 

operate at a strategic level and be 

determined to ensure the Association 

can be the best it can be whilst 

maintaining its core values. In return for 

your enthusiasm, time and commitment, 

you will gain invaluable experience, 

including decision-making at a strategic 

level; risk, governance and financial 

management; and be involved with likeminded 

colleagues from all walks of life 

who consider, at times, complex issues 

and promote the Association (and its 

services) at every opportunity. 

With a turnover in excess of 

£16.6million per annum and registered 

subsidiaries, the Association undertakes 

a wide range of services and offers a 

training programme with the 

opportunity to develop your knowledge. 

This highly rewarding position is 

voluntary with all reasonable expenses 

reimbursed. The Board meets at least six 

times per year and meetings can be 

attended in person or virtually. 

Board members also attend various 

Committee meetings throughout the 

year. We welcome interest from those 

who share our values and who can bring 

new thinking to how we operate and 

approach issues. We also wish our Board 

to be as diverse as those we serve and 

welcome those from all sectors of our 

communities. 

The closing date for noting an interest is 

12 August 2022. 

If you wish to note an interest or discuss 

this opportunity informally please email 

or phone, giving your name and contact 

details (email address and / or phone 

number), Helen Gauld, Chief Executive, 

on Helen.Gauld@langstane-ha.co.uk or 

phone 01224 423004. 

You can also find more information and 

complete an application form at 

langstane-ha.co.uk

THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY 

VOLUNTEERS 

NEEDED 

Fundraising Committee 

We really rely on fundraising to keep our charity going. We are looking for volunteers to join 

the BPD Support Fundraising Committee. 

We are looking for passionate people who want to help make a difference for our community 

BENEFIT 

Gain confidence 

Make a difference 

Meet people 

Learn new skills 

Take on a challenge 

BPDABERDEEN@GMAIL.COM

VOLUNTEERING 



44 

Volunteers wanted for 

Mel's Union Street Mile 

Gathimba Edwards 

Foundation (GEF) are on the 

the lookout for volunteers 

to support 'Mel's Union Street Mile' 

which will take place on Saturday the 

27th of August 2022 as part of 

Celebrate Aberdeen 

 

The race has been renamed Mel's Union 

Street Mile for 2022, in memory of 

GEF's Founder, Myles' dad Mel who 

passed away in 2019. 

 

Over 1,000 runners have raced through 

Aberdeen’s most famous street since 

the race started and it sets the stage for 

the fantastic Celebrate Aberdeen 

Parade which brings the strong sense of 

community and all that’s good about 

Aberdeen to the fore. 

 

There will be three races – P5-P7 which 

will start at 10.30am; S1-S4 (10.40am) 

and an adult and S5/S6 race (10.50am). 

Every runner has the opportunity to 

receive a unique Safari animal themed 

medal. 

 

Money raised for the event will do 

towards GEF's mission which includes 

Providing children in Kenya with an 

education by supporting school, college 

and university fees; Further support 

their education by supplying school 

uniforms, books, shoes & access to 

school meals; Broaden the value of 

learning by hosting educational 

seminars; Care for them by providing 

access to psychosocial support; 

Supporting children in Aberdeenshire 

with severe disabilities via the Neil 

Jaffrey Initiative 

 

To apply for Mel’s Union Street Mile with 

Celebrate Aberdeen & Baker Hughes, visit 

gathimbaedwardsfoundation.org/safariseries/ 

 

To volunteer with Gathimba Edwards 

Foundationon the day as a race marshall 

please contact Kayleigh Paterson-Donald on 

kayleigh@gathimbaedwardsfoundation.org

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES 



46 

Aberdeen Mela Volunteers 

The Aberdeen Mela – One World Day is a cultural event celebrating and promoting the diversity of culture and community 

within the local area of Aberdeen and the North East of Scotland as well as across the country. 

Alongside the festivities and cultural exchange, the festival also looks to promote a greater awareness of global development 

issues to motivate and inspire people to act for a more equal world and demonstrate opportunities for people to get more 

involved. 

The festival will run on 21st August from 12noon to 7pm at Westburn Park in Aberdeen. There will be different stages 

presenting acts as diverse as Bhangra dancers and international choirs to Asian singers and traditional Scottish musicians. As 

well as general family and children’s activities there will also be a wide range of ethnic and Scottish catering facilities, stalls 

for crafts, clothes and information. 

We are currently recruiting volunteers to help at the Aberdeen MELA. All help makes a difference and is greatly appreciated. 

It is also the opportunity to be part of a great, major event in Aberdeen. Come be part of the fun! 

For further information please contact Ahashan Habib, CEO, Aberdeen Multicultural Centre at email: a.habib@abmc.org.uk or 

telephone: 07588529412. 

Facilitators – North East Eating Disorders Support 

The latest from our team. 

NEEDS – North East Eating Disorder Support (Scotland) is looking for volunteer facilitators, 1 evening per month, for our 

monthly support group meeting for those who are suffering from an eating disorder, as well as for our 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. Volunteers should be aware that their social media profiles may be 

examined to ensure that these are compatible with the aims of our charity. 

Meetings are held on the 1st Monday of each month 7.30-9.00pm at The Macrobin Centre, Royal Cornhill, Hospital. All help 

makes a difference and is greatly appreciated. For further information please contact Irene Kerr, Charity Administrator at email: 

gram.needsadmin@nhs.scot or telephone: 07789888345. 

The Big Bounce Event Volunteers – Charlie House 

We are looking for volunteers to help with an event in Aberdeen city centre – The Big Bounce. The event takes place at the 

Bon Accord Centre between the 11th-14th August 2022. Flexible times are available to help during these times. Volunteers 

will be greeting members of the public, checking tickets, helping at the inflatables, and making sure members of the public 

have a safe and fun experience. 

The Bon Accord Centre in partnership with Aberdeen Inspired will again take part in ONE GREAT DAY in 2022 by hosting 

Aberdeen’s Big Bounce. Charlie House has been invited to be the local charity partner of the event. 

With bouncy castles, giant inflatables, music and much more, it’s once again guaranteed to be the leading family event in the 

Aberdeen summer calendar. 

Excellent support and relevant training is provided to all volunteers. Volunteers will be given full induction, including a health 

& safety briefing on the day. Charlie House staff will be on hand to provide support and guidance throughout the event. 

Charlie House will also pay any out-of-pocket expenses for volunteers as well as mileage (at 45p/mile) and reasonable public 

transport costs. Volunteers will also receive a voucher for a drink from the charity’s ReCHarge Café. 

A great, enjoyable and exciting opportunity to help with a major event and assist a great charity. All volunteers make a real 

difference and all help is greatly appreciated. 

For further details please contact Dolina Bell, Volunteer Coordinator at email: volunteer@charliehouse.org.ukor telephone 

01224 313333.

47 




Committee Members - HALLA - Harlaw Area 

Lifelong Learning Association 


Volunteers we need you, with you inspiration and motivation to serve as a board member on the Management Board of 

HALLA (Harlaw Area Lifelong Learning Association). 

We are a Board of people who run daytime and evening classes at Kaimhill Learning Centre. We have a FB page ( 

@HALLACommunity) where you can see some of our activities and tutored classes. 

We meet once a month to discuss new opportunities and management issues, to find new ways of how-to bring people of all 

ages in the local community into the centre. We have several weekly, social, informal learning groups where Board members 

can get to know each other and form a friendly working relationship. 

A volunteer should be passionate, enthusiastic and have a keen interest in community matters. A volunteer does not 

necessarily require specific skills since we all support each other to develop new skills but if you have specific ones, it would 

be good to introduce them to the rest of the Board so we can use them to benefit the local community. 

The Board would appreciate people with knowledge of IT and office procedures but enthusiasm and interest in the 

community are equally important. This is an amazing opportunity to discover your “hidden talents” !!! 

You are very welcome to attend a committee meeting and see if this is for you. 

A fantastic opportunity to help and make a difference for the community. All assistance is greatly appreciated. 

For further details please contact Giuseppina Caligiuri, HALLA Vice Chair at email Hallaassociation@gmail.com or telephone: 

01224 498 164 / 07511377364. 

Cairns Counselling – Volunteer Administrator(s) 

Cairns Counselling has been dedicated to providing counselling to the people of Aberdeen city and the surrounding area since 

1994. As a well-established service, we are trusted by many professionals and have a long history of enabling change. 

Established to provide emotional support to adults in need, our service has grown from humble beginnings to the present day 

where we are open six days a week including two evenings. We are proud to have been given the Queens Award for Voluntary 

service in 2016. As a well-established service, we are trusted by many professionals and have a long history of enabling 

personal change. 

We are looking for office-based volunteers who can help us carry out general administrative duties and liaise and communicate 

with our staff, volunteer counsellors and clients. 

Through volunteering with Cairns Counselling you will 

Have the opportunity to acquire new skills, refine old ones and increase your confidence; 

The chance to meet new people and enjoy new experiences; 

A useful addition to your CV; 

The opportunity to help Cairns Counselling make a difference in the community 

; 

If you are interested in this role, please email Nichola Duncan, Office Manager, office@cairnscounselling.org.uk 

Assistant Section Leader / Section Assistants – 

27th Aberdeen Scout Group 

Come join us in providing that adventure and sharing #SkillsForLife. Volunteering with our sections needn’t be a weekly 

commitment, if you’re not sure if it’s for you ask us about the four week challenge. 

We have three sections in the group for you to choose between, depending on just how much you want to “grow down” as a 

means to relax. Our Beavers (6-8 year olds) and Cubs (8-10½ year olds) meet on Tuesday Evening, whilst the Scouts (10½ – 

14 year olds) meet on Fridays. 

You’ll be getting involved with delivering games and activities for our young people, whether that’s dishing out tails or getting 

them unstuck with something they’re making. Assistant Section Leaders will additionally take an active part in the planning of 

these activities and generally assist the section leader in running the section. 

You don’t need to travel to the other side of the world to make a difference. 

For further details please contact Bryan McKellar,, Executive Committee Member at E Mail: joinus@27thaberdeen.org.uk or 

telephone: 07981 477560.




48 

Social Media Marketing Volunteers - 

Inchgarth Community Centre 

Help us keep our social media pages updated with the most recent information about our exciting activities, events and 

classes. You will also manage online marketing campaign to get more members and volunteers if you fancy it. 

This is also an opportunity to improve your Social Media Marketing skills and gain experience in a PR/Marketing position. 

Experience required: Knowledge of social media, basic IT skills, positive attitude. 

All volunteers are greatly appreciated and provided with excellent support. Please contact us to find out how you can help, 

join our fantastic team of volunteers and make a real difference in the community: Email: volunteerinchgarth@gmail.com / Tel: 

01224 325191 / Website: http://www.inchgarth.org/ 

Scottish Ambulance Service Involving People 

Network Volunteers 

The Scottish Ambulance Service Infection Control Committee plays a vital role in ensuring ambulance staff are trained to the 

highest standards and our vehicles maintained in accordance with national cleanliness specifications. We need a volunteer to 

provide an independent patient’s perspective to assist in this process. 

This role will require you to have access to Microsoft Teams and an internet connection. The group meets for four times per 

year for three hours. Though we cannot pay for attendance, we do pay agreed expenses. 

We pride ourselves on providing a very high standard of care and you could play a key role in helping to maintain these 

standards. Please get in touch here to apply: https://www.scottishambulance.com/contact-us/involving-people-network/ 

Volunteer Listeners – The Community Chaplaincy 

Listening (CCL) Service 

Can you be a good listener? Could you help someone explore what they are going through? 

The Community Chaplaincy Listening (CCL) Service helps people (re)discover hope and inner strength in times of “illness, 

change and loss”. CCL Listeners do not offer counselling, but they offer the person a space to talk, to tell their story in their 

own time, for their own wellbeing, with the knowledge that the listener is there to listen. Volunteers can play a vital role 

supporting the work of the Department of Spiritual Care/CLS. 


Listening to people’s concerns can help them feel less isolated and anxious while helping them feel more hopeful and valued in 

a confidential and non-judgemental way. 

There is no requirement for volunteers or service users to be a member of a faith or belief group, just be able to provide a 

service that has patients at the heart, where they can feel safe, seen and heard, allowing them the space to reflect on their own 

personal situations. 

A fantastic opportunity help. All help makes a real difference and is greatly appreciated. For further details please contact us at 

email: gram.listening@nhs.scot or telephone: 07584 217 192 or 01224 553316.

49 




Market Garden Volunteers - TAMS - 

The Allotment Market Stall 


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 

Support at Home Volunteers – RVS: Royal Voluntary 

Service (Grampian Services) 


As part of our Supporting You at Home service we help vulnerable clients to become less isolated, increase confidence and 

become part of their local community. We accept referrals for people who have recently been discharged from hospital, but 

we consider applications for any adult aged 18+. Your role as a Support at Home Volunteer will be to offer valuable support 

for clients who require help with any of these services. This role is available in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. 

-Home Visit: you will provide a friendly chat/visit to someone who is lonely/isolated. 

-1-1 Garden Visit; 1-1 Assisted Walks: weather dependant! You can provide social companionship or encourage mobility. 

-Shopping: you can help get shopping for someone who is unable to do their own shopping or take someone shopping 

(depending on mobility) to encourage mobility and socialisation. 

-Transport: taking someone to an appointment. 

All help makes a difference and is greatly appreciated. For further details please contact the RVS Grampian Team at: 

grampiansupport@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk or 01224 937110. 

Clan Cancer Support Volunteers 


Leading north east cancer charity Clan Cancer Support is appealing for 100 new volunteers across the north-east as it aims to 

reach more local people affected by cancer ahead of its 40th anniversary next year. 

Clan is looking for people to take on a range of roles involving listening and support services, event support, retail support, 

driving clients to medical appointments and gardening to help maintain the grounds at Clan’s support centres. 

Volunteers will also have the opportunity to take part in Clan’s sculpture trail, The Big Hop Trail, which is due to take the public 

on a cultural tour of the north-east and the islands from July to September in 2023. The event, which coincides with Clan’s 

40th anniversary next year, will see 40 striking hare sculptures located throughout Clan’s geography celebrating the charity’s 

commitment to supporting people affected by cancer, their family, carers and friends. 

Claire Mechie, Clan’s volunteer coordinator, said: “Volunteers are the lifeblood of Clan and we are indebted to them for the 

amazing role they play in ensuring we can provide first class support services to people affected by cancer across the northeast. 

“Lockdown completely disrupted our operations and our volunteering programme, but we’re now back with face-to-face 

events and client services, meaning we are looking for motivated and positive people who are keen to invest their time with us. 

“Whether it’s listening and providing support, helping at one of our events or supporting our shops or driving our clients to 

appointments, our volunteers have the power to help people affected by cancer in their local area.” 

To find out more and to enquire about volunteering at Clan please email volunteering@clancancersupport.org or call 01224 

647000.




50 

Committee Members – Bridge of Don 

Community Centre 

We are seeking new Committee Members. To be a member of the committee and contribute to our recovery from COVID. 

Your skills will contribute to developments as well as continuation of the current programme. Our preferred means of 

development is to follow ideas that come from the community. 

The committee meets monthly on Thursday evenings 6.30pm – 8.30pm at the Community Centre which is in the Bridge of 

Don Academy Building. Car Parking is good and the No 1 bus has a stop near to the building. 

A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference for the community. All assistance is greatly appreciated. For further 

details please contact Catherine C Mason, Chair at email: katiecmason@btinternet.com or telephone: 07534995560. 

Trustee - Music4u 

The Board of Trustees are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing the charity’s 

aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. 

While all Trustees always retain their responsibility for the Charity as a whole, some will be chosen for their specific expertise in 

particular areas and will support and advise the Board on that area of expertise. 

Trustees are expected to contribute around 10 hours per month to the charity and to attend 6 Board Meetings per annum. A 

minimum commitment of 12 months is requested. 

Trustees are expected to attend a minimum of 2 Workshops, 2 Performances and 2 Fundraising Events per annum. 

This is a voluntary position, although reasonable travelling expenses can be refunded. 

A fantastic opportunity to assist in the continued successful development of Music 4 U. All help makes a difference and is 

greatly appreciated. For further details please email info@m4u.org.uk 

Coffee Shop/Bakery Volunteers – The Breadmaker 

(part The of latest Aberdeen from our team. Day Project charity) 

The Breadmaker is part of the Aberdeen Day Project – a registered charity, successful social enterprise, artisan bakery and 

coffee house. 

We are seeking volunteers who would like to help in a coffee shop/bakery environment and also volunteer with a team to 

provide training and support for adults with learning disabilities in a working Coffee shop and Bakery environment. 

An exciting and fantastic opportunity to volunteer in an award winning bakery and help make a real difference for people we 

support as well. Excellent training and support is provided to all volunteers and all help is greatly appreciated. 

For more information please contact Alistair Reid, CPD Manager at email alistair.reid@thebreadmaker.org.uk or tel.: 01224 

641520.

51 



FUNDING 

Funding 

Funding news and highlights from ACVO Funding Officer, Claire Shaw 

ASH Scotland small grants for 

community organisations 

A range of community groups have benefited from ASH Scotland’s small grants 

scheme, from community radio to youth projects and a men’s shed. 

Apply now and help improve 

people’s health and wellbeing 

in your community by 

addressing smoking. 

Successful applicants receive: 

a small grant of £500 

a package of tailored 

support, over a 6 month 

period 

Free resources and training 

The next round of applications 

closes on 29 August 2022. 

Applications are open to new 

and existing supporters of 

Scotland’s Charter for a 

Tobacco-free Generation. 

Before completing the 

application form, please make 

sure you have read the 

information sheet about the 

small grant support package. 

This explains the commitment 

involved and who is eligible to 

apply. 

If you would like to discuss your 

application informally before 

applying, please email 

enquiries@ashscotland.org.uk 

and a member of ASH 

Scotland's Engagement Team 

will be in touch to arrange a 

chat. 

For more information and to 

apply, visit 

ashscotland.org.uk/smallgrants

FUNDING 



52 

Social Enterprise Net Zero 

Transition Fund 

SIS, in partnership with Zero Waste Scotland, is pleased to present the Social 

Enterprise Net Zero Transition Fund (NZTF), designed to support social enterprises 

and the wider third sector to make the transition to carbon net zero. 

The purpose of the fund is to support 

these social sector organisations 

(SSO) in their journey to become 

carbon neutral, and to develop the 

circular economy. Through the fund, 

the SIS and ZWS teams are 

interested in supporting activities 

that will reduce carbon footprint. 

Some examples of these activities are 

below. Please note this is not an 

exhaustive list and the teams are 

keen to see a range of activities come 

forward: 

Reducing energy consumption 

Improving energy efficiency 

Developing or moving to 

renewable energy sources 

Transitioning to sustainable 

transport options 

Scaling local food production and 

supply 

Minimising or re-purposing food 

waste 

Developing circular economy 

products, services, processes and 

practices. 

The fund provides loans from 

£10,000. SSO’s who have a particular 

circular economy focus or are 

proposing specific projects with a 

focus on re-use, repair and 

leasing/sharing models, may also be 

eligible for a small grant award. 

Who is eligible for the loan? 

To be eligible for a loan SSOs must 

satisfy the following requirements: 

SSOs must generate a trading 

income that allows for Loan 

repayments. 

Organisations must be based and 

operating in Scotland or for 

organisations that are not, the 

activity funded by NZTF must be 

delivering most of their impact in 

Scotland. 

SSOs must be able to evidence 

their ambition to transition to a 

net zero model and / or 

SSOs looking to establish or grow 

circular economy practices. 

Who may be eligible for a small 

grant*? 

To be eligible for a small grant SSOs 

must be looking to establish or grow 

circular economy practices in reuse/repair/sharing 

activities – some 

examples are below: 

Proposed project delivers new or 

additional re-use or repair activities 

that will achieve positive carbon 

benefits. The project must result in a 

carbon saving or add value to a 

‘waste’ product or material 

Strategic projects which address 

significant challenges and create 

transformational behaviour change, 

likely to require significant financing 

and partnerships. 

Business growth and development of 

established reuse/repair/sharing 

activities (where projected sales and 

future income can be forecast). 

Replication of existing working 

models of circular economy practices. 

Please visit zerowastescotland.org.uk 

for more information regarding 

circular economy practices: 

How do I apply? 

If you would like to apply, please 

complete an Expression of Interest 

form here. This is a short form, which 

seeks to understand your Net Zero 

Transition plans and your plans for 

the funds. Please send your 

completed EOI form to 

hello@socialinvestmentscotland.com 

with the requested supporting 

information. 

EOI’s will then be reviewed by the 

SIS and ZWS teams. If you are invited 

to the next stage, you will be 

assigned an Investment Manager who 

will guide you through the process 

and the information the teams 

require for the next stage. 

For more information, visit: 

socialinvestmentscotland.com 

*Organisations must meet the ‘Subsidy control’ criteria (Please be aware that this support will be provided through Special Drawing Rights which allows a maximum of 

£322,000 available to a single business in a three-year period, including previous de minimis support that may have been received in the past three years.

53 



FUNDING 

Encouraging and 

Supporting Grassroots 

Activity Fund 

The new fund is aimed at smaller, grassroots organisations and groups looking 

to provide community-led support for people affected by dementia. 

Applications are now open 

for the Encouraging and 

Supporting Grassroots 

Activity Fund, the newest strand of 

Age UK's partnership grants 

programme with the Scottish 

Government and Age Scotland. 

The fund is aimed at smaller, 

grassroots organisations and groups 

looking to provide community-led 

support for people affected by 

dementia. A total of £145,921 of 

funding is available for this strand and 

within this, applicants can apply for 

awards of £5,000 to £20,000 over a 

12-month period. 

Applications should demonstrate that 

proposed funded activities will: 

Address gaps in support for 

people with lived experience of 

dementia in a local area 

Enable the ordinary by removing 

barriers for people with lived 

experience to get together and 

take part in groups and activities 

Trial new approaches and 

activities that will empower 

people with lived experience of 

dementia 

Support intergenerational activity 

– this could mean working with 

young carers of people living with 

dementia or generally including young 

people within the community 

The fund criteria and application 

process have been co-produced by 

About Dementia staff and a lived 

experience panel of people living with 

dementia and unpaid carers. These 

individuals have played a crucial role 

in the fund design and they will be 

continually involved in the assessment 

and decision-making process as the 

fund progresses. 

How To Apply 

For more information on the fund, 

requirements and how to apply, 

please visit ageuk.org.uk/scotland to 

find application details, forms and 

instructional videos to help with your 

application.

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES 



54 

Health & Social Care 

Updates 

A Chance for Change: 

What you said you want from the refreshed Scottish 

Government Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 

Scottish Recovery Network 

has recently released a short 

animation to support the 

findings of their report ‘A Chance for 

Change - What you said you want from 

the refreshed Scottish Government 

Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy’ 

 

The report details feedback gathered to 

inform the refresh of the Scottish 

Government’s Mental Health and 

Wellbeing Strategy. The feedback is 

largely drawn from a series of ‘Help 

Shape the Future of Mental Health’ 

conversation cafés held in March 2022. 

The cafés gathered the views of those 

with lived experience and front-line 

practitioners with an interest in mental 

health recovery. 

The report is also informed by the 

results of a comprehensive engagement 

exercise on the future for mental health 

recovery in Scotland. This was 

undertaken in Autumn 2020 by Scottish 

Recovery Network at the request of 

their Scottish Government sponsor. This 

included 10 online discussion events 

and an online survey completed by 335 

people. 

Scottish Recovery Network’s work is 

collaborative in nature. They connect 

with people with lived experience and 

those developing, managing and 

delivering a wide range of mental health 

and wellbeing services and support. The 

discussions they have and the feedback 

and ideas people share with them have 

also informed this report.

55 



VACANCIES 

Vacancies 

keeep up to date with the latest third sector opportunities at acvo.org.uk/vacancies 

Fundraiser 

ABERDEEN ARTS CENTRE 

Aberdeen Arts Centre are recruiting a fundraiser to investigate, consider and progress a range of funding 

streams into the business to assist with our plans for future expansion. 

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE: 

To investigate, consider and progress a range of funding streams into the business to assist with our plans for 

future expansion. 

This role will be hybrid, with a combination of at home and in office working. There will be an expectation that 

one day a week will be onsite at our premises in central Aberdeen but for the right candidate this is 

negotiable. 

This is a new role within Aberdeen Arts Centre. It is a part- time, permanent position. 

Salary will be around £26k, pro rata, based on experience. There is also a competitive pension scheme. 

PERSON SPECIFICATION: 

An experienced arts fundraiser, with a particular understanding of fundraising from trusts and foundations. 

The ideal candidate will have acted at manager level, or be ready to make the step change, with a thorough 

understanding of fundraising theory and the main arts funders both in Scotland and across the UK. They 

should be able to work independently, to interpret data and information and to craft a strong case for 

support. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS 

3 years+ experience in arts bid writing to a high standard 

Demonstrable experience of individual and corporate fundraising 

A good understanding of arts funders and their requirements • Good knowledge of best practise 

approaches in the sector 

Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to make pitches and liaise with clients 

both verbally and via written reports and communications 

DESIRABLE SKILLS 

Experience of engaging positively with Creative Scotland and handling their funding application process 

A passion for the performing arts with a social purpose and commitment to opening up access and 

ensuring diversity across the sector 

Experience of prospect research across statutory, individuals, trusts and corporates 

CLOSES AUGUST 31st 

acvo.org.uk/vacancies/aberdeen-arts-centre-fundraiser/

VACANCIES 



56 

Support Manager 

INSPIRE 

Permanent/Full time 

£27,009 – £31,390 

Aberdeen 

CLOSES 7th AUGUST 2022 

Inspire has been supporting adults with learning disabilities in Aberdeen for over 30 years and today operates 

13 services across the City, enabling more than 150 local adults with additional support needs to get the most 

out of life. 

We are currently seeking a new Support Manager to lead the dedicated team of 14 staff at our Viewfield 

service in the Airyhall area of the City and help the people we support there to fulfil their ambitions and play a 

full and active role within their community. 

Inspire has operated the Viewfield service – which comprises two separate houses situated directly next door 

to each other – since 1992. The service is home to eight adults with learning disabilities, with four gentlemen 

living in one property and four ladies in the other. 

Those who call Viewfield home all have great personalities, are physically mobile – with a mixture of 

communication levels – and range in age from their late 20’s to their early 80’s. They have a variety of interests 

including gardening, football, music, attending discos and concerts and going out for lunch – meaning no two 

days at Viewfield are truly ever the same! 

Some of those supported at the service also attend work placements and volunteer jobs through the week 

and are regular participants in Inspire’s ‘added-value’ activities programme, attending events both virtually 

and in-person. 

The staff team at Viewfield are also a mix of ages and experience and we are looking for a Support Manager 

who is confident in motivating and encouraging colleagues to develop personally and provide the best support 

they can to those in their care. 

This is an exciting time for everyone at Viewfield as we are currently upgrading the two houses for the people 

we support. The new Support Manager will lead the team to ensure the service provides a homely 

environment for those who live there and work closely with, and encourage regular input from, families and 

guardians during this process and beyond. 

This is a great opportunity for someone looking to take the next step in their social care career and utilise the 

skills and experience gained in previous roles. 

acvo.org.uk/vacancies/inspire-support-manager/

57 



VACANCIES 

Housing Support Worker 

– Key Projects 

CASTLEHILL HOUSING ASSOCIATION 

Job title: Housing Support Worker – Key Projects 

Location: Office based Carden Place 

Hours of work: 28 per week – A flexitime system is in place for eligible posts. 

Salary: Starting part time salary will be £25,704 per annum. The salary grade for this post is 6, £32,130 FTE. 

Closing date: 10 August 2022, 4pm. 

A leading provider of affordable housing, based in Aberdeen, Castlehill Housing Association has been 

providing high quality, affordable homes throughout North East Scotland for nearly 50 years. 

With over 2,000 properties throughout Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray, we meet the housing needs of a 

diverse range of people, whilst playing a significant role in improving our tenants’ quality of life. 

Key Responsibilities: 

The post is under our Key Projects department. The Key Project is a free and confidential housing support 

service for tenants, where our aim is to help tenants sustain their tenancy, or “keep the key” by helping them 

to tackle any risk that may threaten their tenancy. The services may be offered at any point of the tenancy, to 

offer a variety of support services. 

The post holder will be expected to provide direct support to a number of Castlehill residents in Aberdeen City 

and Aberdeenshire, underpinned by a flexible approach to meeting individual needs. Housing Support from 

the Key Project aims to assist vulnerable people who may otherwise be at risk of homelessness through loss of 

their tenancy. 

About you: 

You will have SVQ Level 2 in Health & Social Care, or are working towards this, and have previous experience 

in a similar role, where individuals have been affected by social exclusion, in social housing environment. 

Due to small team size, you are expected to undertake lone working and effectively planning own workload, 

have problem solving ability and good time management skills. You have great capacities to communicate 

verbally and in writing, and you possess good IT skills. For the full description of the essential and desirable 

criteria, please access the job profile on our website. 

If you think you’d like to join our team then please visit our website www.castlehillha.co.uk/about-us/jobswith-us 

for further details on the position and for information on how to apply. 

For an informal chat regarding the post please contact Susan Pirie on 01224 039468 or email 

susan.pirie@castlehillha.co.uk. 

The closing date for applications is 10 August 2022. Interviews will be held on 23 August 2022. 

acvo.org.uk/vacancies/castlehill-housing-support-worker/

VACANCIES 



58 

Senior Fundraising Coordinator 

BEFRIEND A CHILD 

At Befriend a Child we believe every child deserves a happy childhood and the best 

chance in life to succeed and thrive. We support children and young people growing up in 

difficult life circumstances across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. We help them develop 

into confident young adults and achieve their full potential. We do this by matching 

them with trained volunteers who deliver 1:1 befriending and mentoring programmes, 

which over time have a transformational effect. 

Due to growth within our fundraising and marketing team, we are looking to recruit a 

Senior Fundraising Coordinator to support the fundraising efforts of the team and have 

responsibility for developing and delivering fundraising activities across a range of 

income streams. These include individuals, schools, community groups and companies, 

3rd party fundraising events, as well as from our own events. This essential role will 

develop, implement, and evaluate fundraising activities and campaigns that have 

defined targets and outcomes, with the support of the Head of Fundraising and 

Marketing. 

If you are inspired by our cause, can demonstrate success achieved in a similar role, are 

organised with excellent communication skills, we would love to hear from you. This is 

an exciting time to join the charity as we grow and develop our programmes for local 

children, young people and families. 

This is a full time post, working 37.5 hours a week. Our working day is generally 9.00am – 

4.30pm with occasional evening and weekend work in which we operate flexitime and 

TOIL. This role is based in our office at 9 Bon Accord Square Aberdeen with some hybrid 

working if desired. A full clean driving licence and access to a car is essential due to the 

nature of the role. 

For an informal chat to find out more or a recruitment pack please contact Katie Kyle on 

k.kyle@befriendachild.org.uk or call 01224-210060. Closing date for applications is 

Monday 8th August. 

www.befriendachild.org.uk 

acvo.org.uk/vacancies/befriend-a-child-senior-fundraising-coordinator

59 



VACANCIES 

Community Development Manager 

STATION HOUSE MEDIA UNIT (SHMU) 

37 hours per week, £31,419 - £34,213 p/a | Closes midnight on 14th August 2022 

We are recruiting a Community Development Manager - a pivotal leadership role within our organisation that 

will play a key role in supporting our programmes to re-energise our communities across the North East. 

No matter what your job is at shmu, everyone’s work is about the same thing – transforming the lives of 

individuals and communities across North East Scotland. We are looking for an exceptional, passionate, detailoriented 

individual to join our team as a Community Development Manager 

We passionately believe in supporting people to expand their horizons and achieve their full potential. Our 

approach, methods, projects and initiatives are nationally recognised, positioning us as a centre of excellence 

for the work we do. 

We appreciate the importance of good mental health and wellbeing amongst our team and strive to provide a 

working environment which supports people to achieve this. We are also committed to supporting the 

wellbeing of all those who engage with our services - hear more about the impact of our work in this area 

here. 

Our Community Development Manager will play a key role within the organisation, working alongside the 

Chief Executive to design, manage and coordinate all strategic and operational aspects of all community 

engagement and outreach services across the organisation. 

The postholder will lead on the development and implementation of our Community Development & 

Engagement Strategy, including a review of all our existing community services and engagement with a range 

of our community partners, and play a key role in ensuring the impact of our community development work is 

recognised and valued. 

Alternatively, please contact Aynsley if you require further information or for an application pack; 

aynsley.murray@shmu.org.uk 

acvo.org.uk/vacancies/shmu-community-development-manager/

VACANCIES 



60 

Training & Qualifications Manager 

STATION HOUSE MEDIA UNIT (SHMU) 

37 hours per week, £31,419 - £34,213 p/a | Closes midnight on 14th August 2022 

We are recruiting a Training & Qualifications Manager - a pivotal role with the responsibility for the 

development, delivery and quality assurance of all our qualifications, which will help us to realise our 

ambitions for the future of accredited provision across our organisation. 

Through our community media outlets, we provide unparalleled access to community media opportunities, 

training and support. We have over 20 years of experience in delivering youth-led initiatives, focussing on 

long-term support, concentrating on the key points of transition (from primary to secondary school, and 

leaving school) and with young people experiencing challenges and disadvantage. 

To further support our communities and our young people, shmu have been an SQA accredited centre since 

2012 and deliver a suite of media and personal development focused qualifications for young people, including 

delivering Foundation Apprenticeships in schools across Aberdeenshire. We also support our volunteers and 

adults engaged with our services to undertake accredited qualifications from our suite of SQA awards, 

encouraging skills development, positive learning experiences, increased confidence and self-belief. 

As a result of significant developments in our accredited programmes, we are looking for a Training and 

Qualifications Manager to lead on this area of work. 

Our Training and Qualifications Manager will act as the SQA Coordinator, ensuring that all the organisation's 

accredited programmes are designed, managed and delivered to the highest standards through robust quality 

assurance and performance management in accordance with our own policies and SQA guidelines. 

The postholder will also support the operational staff team to deliver our suite of accredited programmes 

across the organisation, ensuring the qualifications meet the needs of those who undertake them. 

Closing date for applications is midnight on 14th August 2022. 

acvo.org.uk/vacancies/shmu-training-qualifications-manager

Want to reach 

Aberdeen's 

third sector 

with details of 

your vacancy? 

If you are hiring, 

we can help! 

Get in touch now to find out 

how you can advertise your 

latest job role through 

ACVO News and at 

acvo.org.uk/vacancies 

Let ACVO help you to find 

your next team member 

Get in touch with andrew.davidson@acvo.org.uk to find out 

how to advertise your vacancy on our site and in ACVO News.

acvo.org.uk

ACVO News August 2022

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