ACVO News March 2025

ACVO NEWS
T H E L A T E S T F R O M A B E R D E E N ' S T H I R D S E C T O R
P A G E 2 4
M A R C H | 2 0 2 5

acvo.org.uk

ACVO News
March 2025
3
CONTENTS
THE LATEST UPDATES FROM AND FOR ABERDEEN’S THIRD SECTOR
04
ACVO UPDATES
The latest developments from ACVO and
updates from our team
24
GREAT WESTERN COMMUNITY CENTRE: BREATHING
NEW LIFE INTO A BELOVED SPACES
What was once Holburn West Church has now become a thriving hub for
local Aberdeen residents; Great Western Community Centre. Thanks to
the dedicated efforts of the community and the trust that stepped in to
save it when facing closure, the space has been transformed into focal
point for engagement and local connectivity.
30
12 NEWS FROM YOU
News from ACVO Members and other local
and national third sector organisations
30 VOLUNTEERING
The latest from Mike Melvin and
developments from Volunteer Aberdeen
32 FUNDING
Funding news, announcements and the
latest opportunities to get funded!
33 ACVO OPPORTUNITIES
08
33 FUNDING
34
VOLUNTEERING
ACVO TSI BOARD WELCOMES
CAMERON MCCREADY
BECOME A VOLUNTEER
CHARTER CHAMPION!
38
EVENTS
40 VACANCIES
We are delighted to announce a
recent addition to our Board of
Directors with the appointment
of Home-Start Aberdeen Chief
Executive, Cameron McCready.
Find out how your organisation
can sign up to the Volunteer
Charter and promote best
practices for volunteering locally
and across the country!
ACVO TSI 38 CASTLE STREET,
ABERDEEN, AB11 5YU
ENQUIRIES@ACVO.ORG.UK
WWW.ACVO.ORG.UK
MARCH 2025
Not on the mailing list to receive
ACVO News direct to your inbox
every month? Sign up here.
Scottish Charity No: SC036845
© 2025 Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations.

ACVO UPDATES ACVO News
4
March 2025
Third Sector
Support Day
The ACVO team would like to say a huge
thank you to everyone who attended our
recent Third Sector Support Day on
Tuesday 25th February at our ACVO office!
The day was the perfect opportunity to
meet with people from across our third
sector and to give them advice, guidance
and support about any issues or questions
they had.
Across Team ACVO, we were each able to
support individuals with queries relating to
funding, policy, communications,
partnerships, finance, strategic development
and more!
We hope everyone who attended found
their session valuable and we look forward
to providing another support day in the
future.
Our door is always open - if you would like
to have a chat with a member of the ACVO
team, get in touch with us at acvo.org.uk to
get the conversation started!

5
ACVO News
March 2025
ACVO UPDATES
ACVO Events
happening this month!
Tues 11th March 2025 | 12:30 - 13:30
Online Lunch and Learn: Cyber Security
Join Alex Dowall, head of Cyber and Fraud at the
Cyber and Fraud Centre - Scotland Social
Enterprise for a session on the services and
resources that they can provide to help you stay
secure online.
Online | MS Teams
BOOK NOW
Wed 19th March 2025 | 10:00 - 12:00
Exploring digital communications campaigns
Join Communications Officer Andrew and
Digital Media Assistant Emily for a closer look at
recent developments and digital projects
implemented by ACVO TSI to help increase the
visibility of Aberdeen's third sector.
Thu 20th Mar 2025 | 10:00 - 12:00
Training Session: Committee Skills
If you want to feel more comfortable serving on
a committee then this session is for you. Led by
ACVO Development Officer Sandy Mathers, this
session is designed to make you more confident
as a committee member.
ACVO Office, 38 Castle
Street, AB11 5YU
BOOK NOW
find out more at
acvo.org.uk/events
Salvation Army Citadel,
28 Castle Street, AB11 5BG
BOOK NOW

ACVO UPDATES ACVO News
6
March 2025
Year 4 Recipients of the
Health & Wellbeing Fu
ACVO is delighted to announce the 48 local
projects in Aberdeen that received a share of
£500,000 through Round 1 of the fourth year
of the Scottish Government’s Communities
Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund

7
ACVO News
ACVO UPDATES
March 2025
Communities Mental
nd Announced!
We are pleased to announce that 48 local
organisations have been awarded funding
in Round 1 of Year 4 of the Communities
Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund,
supporting vital grassroots initiatives
across Aberdeen. This funding, provided
by the Scottish Government, enables
local groups to deliver projects aimed at
improving mental wellbeing, tackling
social isolation, and fostering stronger,
healthier communities.
Since its launch, the Fund has made a significant impact
in Aberdeen, with nearly £2 million distributed to 223
projects over the past three years. This latest round
continues that legacy, ensuring that community-led
initiatives receive the support they need to make a
tangible difference in people’s lives. From creative arts
programmes and outdoor wellbeing activities to peer
support groups and mental health interventions, the
newly funded projects will provide essential services to
adults of all ages and backgrounds.
Claire Shaw, Funding Officer at ACVO said "We are
delighted to see another round of funding awarded to
such a fantastic range of organisations working to
support mental health and wellbeing in Aberdeen. Over
the past three years, we’ve witnessed the incredible
difference this Fund has made in communities across the
city. The projects supported in this round will continue to
build on that success, helping to reduce loneliness,
support mental resilience, and create welcoming spaces
where people feel valued and connected."
The Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund was
established to support initiatives that address key issues
such as social isolation, suicide prevention, poverty, and
inequality all while prioritising prevention and early
intervention.
The Scottish Government reaffirmed its commitment to
this work in March 2024, allocating an additional £15
million to the Fund across Scotland for 2024-25 as part
of its broader Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy.
With 48 new local projects now set to receive funding,
ACVO is excited to see the positive impact these
projects will have in the year ahead.
Applications for Round 2 of the Fund, which invited
applications for grants of up to £3000, closed on
February 7th 2025. The assessment process for this
round is currently underway with an announcement of
successful applicants expected soon.
Full details of the projects funded in Round 1 can be
found at acvo.org.uk/funding/cmhwfundprojects/year4.
Communities Mental
Health & Wellbeing Fund

ACVO UPDATES ACVO News
8
March 2025
ACVO TSI Board Welcomes
Home-Start Aberdeen Chief
Executive Cameron McCready
e are delighted to
announce a recent
addition to our Board
of Directors with the
appointment of
WHome- Start Aberdeen Chief
Executive, Cameron McCready.
With over 15 years of experience in
the third sector, Cameron brings a
wealth of knowledge and a deep
commitment to advocating for
organisations and the communities
they serve.
Having benefited personally from
ACVO’s services, Cameron saw this as
an opportunity to give back. “I’ve
worked alongside members of the
ACVO team as part of my role at
Home-Start Aberdeen and even found
my current position through an advert
in ACVO’s opportunity bulletin, so it’s
an organisation I have had close ties
with” he shared.
“Now that I’ve settled into my role as
Home-Start Chief Executive, and my
kids are getting a bit older, I feel I have
a bit more time to contribute. Being on
the ACVO Board allows me to support
not just one organisation but also the
wider third sector, and that’s what
really appealed to me”.
For Cameron, a key motivation for
joining the Board is the opportunity to
contribute to work around policy
change and sustainable funding.
“Funding in the third sector is always
precarious, and budgets are tighter
now than ever before. Cuts are
constantly on the horizon. Through this
role, I hope to be able to influence
decisions, using our collective voice
more effectively to advocate for the
resources we need and to highlight the
impact we make.”
Beyond funding, Cameron is
particularly passionate about raising
awareness of third sector organisations
and the vital services they provide.
“Often, people don’t realise the
importance of these services until they
need them. Whether it’s a young family
turning to Home-Start or an older
person seeking support from Age UK,
these organisations fill critical gaps.
Without them, people fall through the
cracks.”
“Many people don’t fully realise the
diversity and the breadth of services
offered by the third sector, so I’d like
to be part of that ongoing drive to
show the wider public that we are here
and that the services we offer really
are essential.”
Cameron also recognises the unique
role the third sector plays in building
trust and bridging the gaps between
individuals and other institutions.
“There’s often a power imbalance
when people interact with statutory
services like social work, housing, or
the police. The third sector operates
differently – it’s about trust,
relationships, and empowering
individuals. That’s why it’s crucial for
ACVO and its Board to amplify the
voices of those we serve.”
Looking to the future, Cameron is
eager to see how initiatives
coordinated by ACVO, like the Third
Sector Hub feasibility study, unfold.
“The third sector in Aberdeen is facing
challenges, but also exciting
opportunities. We need to support
organisations by reducing
administrative burdens, improving
collaboration, and ensuring long-term
sustainability.”
“I’m interested to see where the
feasibility study goes and if there is an
appetite for it in the city. If we could
share some of the backroom HR or
admin services as proposed in the
study, it could potentially free up
resources and budgets to deliver more
of those critical front-line services.”
“I think it's an exciting time to be
involved with ACVO. I'm really
interested to see how some of the
things that are ongoing just now shape
up and, ultimately, where ACVO and
the third sector are in five years.”
As he steps into his role on the Board,
Cameron hopes to bring his extensive
experience, networks, and passion for
the sector to ACVO.
“I’ve been fortunate to learn from
board members in my own career, and
now I have the chance to give
something back. I’d encourage anyone
considering a board role to go for it –
the third sector depends on volunteers
and skill-sharing. Everyone has
something valuable to contribute.”
You can find out more about the other
members of the ACVO Board at
acvo.org.uk/acvo-board/

9
ACVO News
ACVO UPDATES
March 2025
Many people don’t fully
realise the diversity of
services offered by the
third sector. I’d like to be
part of that ongoing drive
to show the wider public
that we are here and that
the services we offer
really are essential.
Home- Start Aberdeen Chief Executive and
ACVO Board Member, Cameron McCready

ACVO UPDATES
ACVO News
March 2025
10
Latest update from The Promise in Aberdeen
from Gette Cobban: Senior Development Officer, ACVO TSI
Five years since The
Promise was made
“The Promise is now at it’s halfway point. Significant
progress has been made so far but it is important to
continue our hard work to ensure this promise is kept.”
Gette Cobban, Senior Development Officer - ACVO TSI
T
when
his year marks the
halfway point from when
The Promise was made, to
it needs to be kept.
This is a really important year: an
opportunity to reflect on all the positive
changes that have happened so far and
focus on what still needs to change.
On February 5th, five years since The
Promise was made, The Oversight Board
for The Promise published their third
report on progress. The report is clear that
despite 2025 marking the halfway point in
time, Scotland is not halfway in progress.
The report focuses on Whole Family
Support and the Workforce. It found
issues including short term funding, a
stretched workforce with recruitment and
retention issues, and a need for urgent
investment. The Oversight Board are
calling for all responsible for delivering
The Promise to focus efforts, work
together, and ask for and accept support
where necessary.
However, they also report on the
significant progress that has been made,
and the “commitment and goodwill” of
those responsible for delivering it.
Because of this, they remain hopeful and
determined that The Promise can be kept
by 2030.
Five years since The Promise was made,
The Promise Scotland has also been
reflecting on the significant number of
positive changes made by people working
hard to keep The Promise.
These include:
· the introduction of a whole family
wellbeing fund to support local service
transformation
· improved work to keep brothers and
sisters together
· passing laws, including the Children
(Care and Justice) (Scotland) Act which
has ended the detention of under 18s in
Young Offenders Institutions, and the UN
Convention on the Rights of a Child
Read Report Three
· the introduction of payments, including
the Care Experience Student Bursary and
the minimum standard allowance for
foster and kinship carers.
However, the organisation is calling for
everyone to work together to ensure that
positive changes are built upon, with the
pace of work quickened, to ensure
changes are being felt by all children
young people, and families who
experience care.
Read the latest Oversight Board report
here: www.oversightboard.scot
Find out about the positive changes that
have happened on The Promise Scotland
website thepromise.scot/what-mustchange/halfway
Find updates
and resources
from The Promise
in Aberdeen now
on the ACVO
website!
acvo.org.uk/
thepromise

ACVO Opportunities
Community
Spaces
The ACVO Team know that Aberdeen has a wealth of community
and third sector spaces available to hire and with our
Community Spaces directory we want to help spread the word!
Who is this platform for?
Third Sector/community organisations in Aberdeen that have a
space for hire are welcome to submit their details via our platform
to be featured, free of charge, on the Community Spaces page on
the ACVO website.
The ACVO team regularly receive enquiries about the hire of
spaces in the community for meetings, events and team days so
the aim of this new initiative is to provide a listing platform so
others working within the sector, and the wider public, can
discover the amazing facilities our sector has to offer and support
organisations directly by spending their money with the hire.
Any third sector or community organisation with a space to hire in Aberdeen City!
How does the process work?
You can submit details using the form on the Community Spaces platform on the
ACVO Website and your space will be added free of charge to the public directory.
The platform is essentially a listings site so ACVO will not process any enquiries
relating to the space – you should provide contact details/web links which people
can use to get in touch directly with you to make enquiries.
What information should I provide?
All required information is listed on the Community Spaces submission form but if
you have any questions about it you can get in touch via enquiries@acvo.org.uk
find out more at
acvo.org.uk/spaces

NEWS ACVO News
12
March 2025
Local charity
Archway
appoints new
Chief Executive
Officer
Archway, a parent-led local charity dedicated to providing care and support to children and
adults with learning disabilities and their families across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, is
delighted to announce the appointment of Iain McKenna as its new Chief Executive Officer.
I
ain brings extensive
experience in strategic
leadership and operational
management from
previous roles in the third
sector and regional radio where he
managed multi-million-pound revenue
streams, maintained agile and responsive
operations, enhanced efficiency, and
"I look forward to
learning from the
incredible team at
Archway and
working with them to
continue delivering
high-quality,
personalised care."
- Iain McKenna, Chief
Executive Officer at Archway
fostered innovation in high performing
teams.
In this role, Iain is responsible for guiding
Archway towards achieving its mission
and strategic goals, cultivating
partnerships and ensuring the effective
management of resources to drive the
charity’s growth.
Commenting on the appointment, Iain
said: "I am honoured to join Archway, an
organisation with a long-standing
commitment to supporting individuals
with learning disabilities and their
families. I look forward to learning from
the incredible team at Archway and
working with them to continue delivering
high-quality, personalised care; exploring
new opportunities to enhance our
services, and raise awareness of
Archway’s impact in the community."
Amanda McCulloch, Chief Executive at
TMM Executive, managed this critical
leadership search for Archway,
“Comprehensively understanding the
organisational needs and developing a
clear role description and compelling
candidate profile facilitated the targeted
search for potential applicants. I focused
on values-driven leadership and the
vision, skills and passion to drive Archway
forward while maintaining its strong
family ethos and community focus. Iain
stood out as an exceptional candidate
perfectly aligned with Archway’s mission
to be a recognised leader in best
practices supporting people with learning
disabilities. His financial and operational
acumen will ensure Archway continues to
thrive and serve families in the best
possible way, now and into the future."
Archway was founded in 1986 by a group
of parents seeking respite care for their
children with learning disabilities. Over
the past forty years, it has grown to offer
a range of community-based services,
including permanent care, residential
respite breaks, holiday respite breaks,
emergency respite, and day activities.
For more information about Archway
and its services, please visit
archway.org.uk

13
ACVO News
March 2025
NEWS
Langstane Housing Association
employee nominated for prestigious
Women in Property award
Langstane Housing Association is delighted to announce that Chloe Beech, a
valued member of the Langstane property team, has been nominated for
the esteemed Women in Property award by Robert Gordon University
C
hloe is currently pursuing
a BSc in Building
Surveying and has
consistently impressed
her tutors with her
outstanding academic performance.
2025 will see Women in Property
marking its 19th National Student
Awards, promoting excellence amongst
female students from built environment
disciplines. Students from across the
regions are nominated by their
lecturers, and the selected regional
winners then go before the national
judging panel. Regional winners will
receive benefits to support their career
development. The ceremony is set to
take place in London this September
2025.
Chloe’s nomination recognises her
exceptional potential and her
dedication to the property and
construction industry. Her practical
experience as a joiner and property
surveyor, combined with her academic
excellence, makes her an ideal
candidate for this prestigious award.
When asked about her nomination,
Chloe said, "It came as a surprise to
me, but I'm truly humbled by the
recognition. I feel grateful to have such
a supportive network of colleagues
and mentors. This nomination is a
testament to the hard work and
dedication I've put into my studies and
my career so far, and I'm excited to see
where it takes me."
"We are incredibly proud of Chloe and
her achievements,"
said Langstane
Housing Association
Property Manager, Claire McEleny.
"Chloe’s commitment to her studies
and her contributions to Langstane are
truly commendable. We wish her the
best of luck in the competition."
The Women in Property National
Student Awards recognise the talent
and potential of female students
pursuing property and constructionrelated
degrees. The awards aim to
identify rising stars and provide them
with opportunities for professional
development and networking.
To find out more about Langstane
Housing Association, visit their
website at www.langstane-ha.co.uk

NEWS
ACVO News
March 2025
14
Tickets on sale now for Archie
Foundation’s Variety Show 2025
Tickets for The Archie Foundation Variety Show are now on sale, with
hundreds of supporters already preparing to take their seats
at the Tivoli Theatre on April 19.
T
alented young dancers,
magicians, singers and
comedians who have been
supported by The Archie
Foundation or NHS Grampian will take to
the stage to raise funds for the charity as
it celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Sponsored by Westhill-based industrial
services provider TEXO and supported by
the Tivoli, the much-anticipated Variety
Show is returning for a second
consecutive year – with the addition of a
matinee performance to meet demand.
Rehearsals are underway with a new lineup
of young acts.
Organiser and Archie volunteer Cassie
McGunnigle said the 2025 Variety Show
would celebrate the unique talents and
abilities of the children.
She said: “Now that tickets are on sale
and rehearsals are underway we are
counting the weeks to this year’s show.
As always, the children are the very heart
and soul of the show, which will celebrate
their creativity and resilience.
“With the valued support of TEXO
and the Tivoli Theatre and the addition of
an afternoon performance, we are sure
this year’s show will be even more
successful! We’re excited to see
everyone showing off their special
talents.”
Industry professionals will mentor the
young performers to provide advice,
guidance and encouragement to the
performers, boosting their confidence
and ensuring they are ready for their big
moment in the spotlight.
"As always, the children are the very
heart and soul of the show, which will
celebrate their creativity and resilience."
- Cassie McGunnigle, Variety Show 2025 Organiser
and Archie Foundation Volunteer
Archie has helped children and families
across the north of Scotland for 25 years,
funding specialist roles and projects at
Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital and,
more recently, at Highland Children’s
Unit, Tayside Children’s Hospital and Dr
Gray’s Hospital, Elgin.
For more information and to book
tickets for The Archie Foundation
Variety Show 2025, visit
archie.org/events/varietyshow

15
ACVO News
March 2025
NEWS
Aberdeen charity
calls for urgent
intervention to save
playscheme service
Autism & Neurodiversity North Scotland
(A-ND) has cited a lack of funding support
as the reason for a 20% cost increase for its
Aberdeen Playscheme sessions.
"This has been an
incredibly difficult
decision to make, and
we have done
everything in our
power to lessen the
impact this will have
on the families we
work with."
- Billy Alexander,
CEO of A-ND
T
o reduce the financial
burden for the families it
supports, the charity had
previously been absorbing
the increasing costs, totalling more than
£86,000 in the last year.
In response to rising National Insurance,
operational, and Living Wage costs, the
charity contacted the Aberdeen City and
Aberdeenshire Councils to appeal for an
increase in funding last August, however
these requests were denied. The session
cost per child, which includes specialist
support for autistic and neurodivergent
children, amounts to just over £190,
rising to more than £200 in April 2025,
however the local authorities contribute
a maximum of £165 towards this.
Despite rising costs and inflation, this
funding has not changed since 2022. This
month, Aberdeen City Council has agreed
to provide an increased backdated
payment of 6.9% and is engaged in
continuing conversations to help find a
further solution that will lessen the
impact on local families in April 2025,
however Aberdeenshire Council has
declined several invitations to be
involved in negotiations.
Commenting on the decision to increase
Playscheme session fees, CEO of A-ND,
Billy Alexander said: “This has been an
incredibly difficult decision to make, and
we have done everything in our power to
lessen the impact this will have on the
families we work with. In doing so, we
have operated at a deficit, but with the
projected annual shortfall set to increase
to more than £114,000, our Aberdeen
playscheme and worse, organisation, will
not survive without increasing the costs.
“We remain fully committed to the
families we support, and we welcome
ongoing conversations with Aberdeen
City Council and remain hopeful that
Aberdeenshire Council will engage with
us to find a solution to ensure funding is
in place to prevent financial hardship for
families. We can no longer bear the
burden of delivering statutory services
without the support of local authorities.”
A-ND Chairperson, Terry Allan, added
“Without urgent intervention, this failure
to invest in third-sector services will lead
to the collapse of essential lifelines for
neurodiverse individuals and their
families, a situation that can no longer
be ignored.”

NEWS
ACVO News
March 2025
16
LGBT+ Visibility and
Awareness with Four
Pillars Workshops
hile Aberdeen is known as
the Granite City, there are
certainly places and Wpeople within that coexist
within a rainbow range of backgrounds
and expressions. Four Pillars has been
the city’s LGBT+ charity and drop-in
centre for over 8 years; providing
meeting space, service referrals and
learning resources for the members of
the community as well as other
residents of Grampian and beyond.
Their most recent endeavour has been
delivering workshops to increase
awareness of LGBT+ specific issues
encountered in health and social care.
While Scottish people have become
much more inclusive towards people of
different gender and sexual
expressions, the systems and
administration we use for our daily
interaction allows a lot of people to fall
through the boxes they tick on forms
necessary to access services.
Because of that, many LGBT+ are
forced to confine to the rigidly defined
terms and lose visibility on issues that
affect everyone, resulting in a lack of
consideration on specialised care that
could be used for a person’s benefit,
regardless of their sexual orientation or
gender identity. Four Pillars’ workshops
are to address topics that have been
ignored yet continued to increase in
both size and complexity.
The workshops are delivered in person
in Aberdeen City until April after which
they will move online, each taking
between 60 and 90 minutes, taking the
form of an interactive presentation
with space for questions and
discussion points. Each of the six
workshops investigate a different
aspect of life for LGBT+ people and
what kinds of interactions they are
likely to encounter.
Online Safety in the LGBT+
Community is intended to raise
awareness of misinformation, data
protection and personal safety (in
terms of online scams or cyberbullying)
LGBT+ people face and looking at what
tools are available to better protect
themselves.
Sexual Health in the LGBT+
Community talks about different
categories of sexually transmitted
infections, vectors of transmission,
testing and treatment options - while
acknowledging and highlighting the
challenges LGBT+ people face when
accessing sexual healthcare.
Living with HIV in Care Setting
presents the dangers of stigma
attached to one's HIV status, as well as
learning more about HIV more
generally, and tackling stereotypes
through example-scenarios
LGBT+ and Parenting is a workshop
about raising a child while being an
LGBT+ individual or perhaps wanting
to engage with the community on a
more proactive level. It also provides
information on the options for LGBT+
people in creating family units.
An Aging LGBT+ population looks at
the problems of LGBT+ people aged 50
and above with their physical, mental,
emotional and sexual health, as well as
stigma attached to maintaining a good
standard of living across those
different aspects of one's wellbeing.
Understanding Transgender Dementia
is to introduce what dementia is while
also examining its impact on one’s
identity and issues around surrounding
potential mental decline.
All these workshops are held in public
spaces such as libraries, community
centres, town halls and healthcare hubs
like the Aberdeen Health Village or the
Vaccination Centre.
If you wish to attend, please find the
sign up form at fourpillarsuk.org/lgbtworkshops
Four Pillars is currently
running a special promotion where
these workshops are held for free until
April 2025. Attendees can also use the
mail@fourpillarsuk.org address to get
in touch to assist with bookings, as well
as answer any additional questions

19
ACVO News
March 2025
NEWS
Scottish Childminding Association:
Discover a career in childminding!
Are you looking for better work-life balance? Have
you thought about becoming a childminder?
The Programme for Scotland’s Childminding Future (PSCF),
funded by Scottish Government and led by the Scottish
Childminding Association (SCMA), aims to grow the
workforce and bring positive change for childminding.
With one-to-one support, free online training and a
business start-up grant available to those interested in
"Becoming a childminder
provided the perfect solution
for me - it gives me freedom
and flexibility."
- Sophie Bilsland, childminder from
Cove, Aberdeen
Aberdeen City, there’s never been a
better time to become a childminder.
Becoming a childminder allows you to enjoy a flexible
career that fits around your family while contributing
towards children's development, learning and wellbeing.
You can run your own business from home, be your own
boss and provide a vital service in your community all whilst
having the opportunity to develop new skills and gain
valuable qualifications.
Sophie Bilsland, from Cove in Aberdeen, was the first in
Scotland to open her new childminding setting with
support through PSCF.
She says: “Becoming a childminder provided the perfect
solution for me - it gives me freedom and flexibility.
Childminding is a ‘win-win’ career. I think more and more
people are realising the benefits it can provide.”
To find out more, watch the short animation about
childminding found above.
For more information about becoming a childminder in
Aberdeen City, visit getstarted.childminding.org.

NEWS
ACVO News
March 2025
20
Aberdeen Arts Centre welcomes
Eve Nicol as new creative director
A
much-loved Scottish arts
organisation has appointed
a new creative director to
usher in an inspiring new
era for the north east’s cultural
landscape.
Aberdeen Arts Centre has welcomed
theatre director and playwright Eve Nicol
to the role of programming and creative
director, taking the reins from outgoing
creative director Amy Liptrott.
Originally hailing from Glasgow, Eve is
passionate about creating welcoming,
inspiring places for dreaming, connection
and play, and her work combines a deep
commitment to artistic excellence with a
DIY entrepreneurial spirit.
Eve said: “After years on tour, I was
longing for a creative home. I was drawn
to Aberdeen Arts Centre by the renewal
and revival it has undergone in recent
years. Under Amy's leadership, its profile
has really grown within the artistic
community – and there’s an energy and
an ambition from the whole team that I
wanted to be part of.
“The Arts Centre is reaching out,
supporting artists, and providing muchneeded
space for the early seeds of
creative dreaming to take root. And
there’s an irrepressible drive in the local
performing community to share the
unbeatable joy of story, song and dance.
“At Aberdeen Arts Centre, I can build
meaningful long-term relationships with
audiences alongside the companies that
bring the centre’s welcoming auditorium
to life week after week. We showcase 33
local companies each year, and it’s that
kind energy that makes my own heart
beat.”
For Eve, the opportunity to support new
theatrical talent – and to build on
Aberdeen Arts Centre’s rich 61-year
history – was too good to pass up. With a
passion for artistic development,
community building and mentoring, she
has ambitious plans for the future of the
iconic arts organisation.
She explained: “My background is in
small-but-mighty theatre that finds its
way in through the cracks to deliver highquality
performance and writing that
packs an emotional punch.
“That’s why I see a buzzing future in
Aberdeen Arts Centre’s recently revived,
historically rich second performance
space (the home of Catherine
Hollingworth’s landmark Children’s
Theatre) as a rough-and-ready lab for
raw, fast-moving, high impact artistic
development. I want to team up with
grassroots creatives to carry forward 31
King Street’s legacy as a place for radical
ideas, entrepreneurial creativity, and
brilliant homegrown work.
“The stories and artists made in this
space will have roots here in the north
east but reach far beyond into the
national and international new writing
and performance landscape. It will put
Aberdeen Arts Centre, and the city itself,
on the map as a creative force to be
reckoned with as a testament to what
this city and its people can do.”
Eve’s appointment comes amidst a period
of growth and expansion for the Arts
Centre team, strengthening its position as
a leading light in the Scottish arts and
culture sector.
Sharon Robertson, chair of the board,

21
ACVO News
March 2025
NEWS
added: "I am thrilled to welcome Eve to
Aberdeen Arts Centre as our new
programming and creative director. Eve
blew us away during the recruitment
process with her drive and tenacity to
succeed as a playwright and director.
“The passion she exudes for the cultural
sector – be it grassroots programmes,
artist development, or the production of
new work – is electric. There’s a buzz of
positivity in the arts right now and with
Eve’s appointment we feel that here at
Aberdeen Arts Centre, too.
“We have made several new
appointments in recent months, and Eve
is joining a powerhouse of a team. I can’t
wait to see the changes and
developments this will bring.”
A former resident artist at the Tron
Theatre and the first digital associate of
the National Theatre of Scotland, Eve is
an alumnus of the BBC Writersroom
Scottish Voices and was nominated for
the Popcorn Award for New Writing. She
has delivered creative learning projects
for young people for the National
Theatre of Great Britain, Citizens Theatre
and Traverse Theatre, and is a trustee of
the Dewar Arts Awards.
Outgoing creative director Amy Liptrott
has been at Aberdeen Arts Centre for the
last two years, implementing a number of
new initiatives to engage the creative
community.
She said: “I'm delighted to be handing
over to Eve as she joins the Arts Centre.
“Aberdeen Arts Centre is a very special
place, and I have really enjoyed my time
here, especially supporting the brilliant
local performing community, establishing
our Artist Development Programme and
growing our Creative Learning
Programme.
“Being part of Aberdeen Arts Centre's
story has been a privilege and I'm looking
forward to seeing the organisation grow,
with Eve's vision and the team's
dedication, into a bright future.”
Sharon added: “I’d like to thank Amy for
her contribution to the
Arts Centre and wish her
all the best for her future
endeavours. Her work has
enabled us to continue to build on the
centre’s fantastic legacy.
“To further progress our ambitious plans
for developing the Arts Centre, we are
now looking to appoint an executive
director to help Aberdeen’s independent
stage grow, diversify and achieve its full
potential – all while putting the people of
Aberdeen and the surrounding area at
the forefront of everything we do.
“As our team expands, we continue to
explore new opportunities and
possibilities – opening up an exciting
future for Aberdeen Arts Centre and for
our community.”
For more information, visit
www.aberdeenartscentre.com or follow
Aberdeen Arts Centre on Facebook,
Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube
at @AberdeenArtsCentre.

NEWS
ACVO News
March 2025
22
Sportschallenge returns ready
to smash £1m in fund-raising
for local charities
T
he previous ten events
have raised an incredible
£950,000 which has
benefited 25 charities in
the region.
Applications from third sector
organisations who would like to benefit
from the money raised on the night are
now open.
For the first time, previous beneficiaries
(excluding charities supported from
2019-2024) can apply for funding by
filling out this Google form.
A highlight in Aberdeen’s business
calendar, the event provides a night of
entertainment and sports trivia hosted by
well-known personalities. Past hosts have
included Alan McInally, Jim White, Ally
McCoist, and Andy Nicol.
Last year’s event raised £135,000 for
Maggie’s, Children’s Aid, Friends of the
Neuro Ward, Archie’s Child Bereavement
Service, Archway, and All Life Chances
(formerly Aberdeen Lads Club).
Sportschallenge trustees recently visited
the charities to see the impact of the
funding, some of which have been used
to support projects like Archway’s and All
Life Chances’ Christmas parties, Maggie’s
relaxation sessions and Friends of the
Neuro Ward breakfast club.
Nick Dalgarno, trustee of Sportschallenge
and managing director of Piper Sandler,
commented on the return of the highly
anticipated event.
He said: “It’s fantastic to see
Sportschallenge return for another year.
“When we initially conceived the event,
we didn’t imagine it would run for so long
nor raise so much money for so many
incredible charities.
“But its unique format, unlike traditional
black-tie affairs, has made it very popular.
“The hotly contested sports quiz, hosted
by well-known sports personalities along
with the tangible impact the money
raised has had on so many local charities
have combined to make the event a real
hit with the business community.”
If you’re a third sector organisation and
would like to become a potential
beneficiary, fill in this Google form by
Monday 7th April.

23
ACVO News
March 2025
NEWS
Camphill School Aberdeen appoints
trio of new trustees to strengthen board
Camphill School Aberdeen, a charity supporting children and young people
with complex additional support needs and learning disabilities, has
welcomed three new trustees to its board.
his needs. Seth now
thrives at Camphill
School Aberdeen.
Dawn said: “I’ve seen first-hand the
difference that Camphill School
Aberdeen makes to families across
the region. Since joining, Seth has
made tremendous strides in his
development, gaining practical skills
well beyond where he started. At one
point it didn’t seem possible for Seth
to be where he is now.”
L-R: Dawn Rowan, Ian Sharp, and Jackie Burnett.
S
transforming
et across three estates in
the west of Aberdeen,
the charity has been
lives for
more than 80 years with the provision
of day and residential care. The new
trustees will play a vital role as the
charity continues its campaign to raise
£10 million over the next decade to
allow it to open its doors to even
more of the region’s vulnerable young
people.
Camphill School Aberdeen’s new
trustees, Dawn Rowan, Ian Sharp, and
Jackie Burnett, have experience
across marketing, communications,
energy, and education. Their expertise
will help shape Camphill School
Aberdeen's strategic future while
ensuring sound governance.
Stephen Johnston, Chair of the Board
of Trustees, said: “Welcoming Dawn,
Ian, and Jackie to the board is an
exciting step forward for us. Each of
them brings a wealth of experience
and new perspectives to the board, as
well as a shared commitment to our
mission. I’m looking forward to
working with them as we continue to
expand our services.”
Camphill School Aberdeen’s
integrated approach combines
national curriculum-aligned education,
a range of vocational workshops,
therapies, leisure and recreational
facilities, and on-site medical care.
This approach ensures that students
grow in confidence and achieve
outcomes their families never thought
possible.
For Dawn Rowan, joining the board
was an opportunity to give back to a
cause that has been life-changing for
her family. Dawn’s son, Seth, has been
a residential student at Camphill
School Aberdeen for four years after
it became clear that mainstream
education was no longer suitable for
“Bringing to the board my experience
in marketing and communications
across various industries will allow me
to advise the charity on how best to
communicate its impact and services
to the wider community.”
The charity is currently fundraising to
increase its capacity by 60% to help
more families access its sector-leading
support. The Building Futures,
Transforming Lives capital appeal
aims to build three new residential
homes, transform existing buildings,
expand facilities, create a sensory
outdoor playpark, and open Murtle
Market, a sustainable social
enterprise. Phase one of the appeal is
almost complete, with Murtle Market
opening late last year and a new
residential home due to open this
year. Fundraising to begin phase two
is now underway.
The three appointments bring
Camphill School Aberdeen’s board to
a total of nine members. Trustees are
appointed to the board on a voluntary
basis and attend regular meetings to
discuss the charity’s activity.
To find out more about Camphill
School Aberdeen, visit their website
at www.camphillschools.org.uk

ACVO News
March 2025
24
Andrew Murray Great Western Community Centre Manager and Development Officer

25
ACVO News
March 2025
What was once Holburn West Church has now
become a thriving hub for local Aberdeen residents;
Great Western Community Centre. Thanks to the
dedicated efforts of the community and the trust that
stepped in to save it, a space which at one point faced
closure and an uncertain future, has been transformed
into focal point for engagement and local connectivity.
Andrew Murray was appointed Centre Manager and
Development Officer in September 2024 to help drive
the community centre’s continuous growth as a hub for
social inclusion.
“When I first learned about the role, I knew the building
had previously been a church and was aware that a
trust had taken it over.” said Andrew. “It has been
fascinating to work alongside trustees of the centre and
learn first hand about the journey they took. It’s an
inspiring story when you know the effort that went into
securing funding to transform a former church into the
vibrant community centre we see today.”
“The community stepping in and
taking action shows just how
much this building means to them.
It’s really encouraging to see local
residents actively saying, we want
this building to remain a key asset
to our community.”
And that story of Great Western Community Centre is
one which showcases the positive impact that can result
when people unite and combine their time and efforts
for the benefit of their local community.
When the Church of Scotland decided to sell the
building as it was deemed surplus to requirements, a
group of residents saw the potential to preserve it as a
space for the community. A trust was formed, and with
successful funding applications - including support from
the Scottish Land Fund - the purchase was finalised in
2024. This pivotal moment ensured that a cherished
local landmark would continue to serve the people of
Aberdeen, rather than risk falling into disuse or being
earmarked for private development.
“It’s so important for local people to come together and
take ownership of buildings like this” Andrew explained.
“For many, this place holds memories and a sense of
belonging. The community stepping in and taking action
shows just how much this building means to them. It’s
really encouraging to see local residents actively saying,
‘We want this building to remain a key asset to our
community.’”

ACVO News
March 2025
26
Ana-Maria Gheorghe, Festivals and Programs
Coordinator for Jazz Scotland, oversees the Aberdeen
Jazz Festival, the Dundee Jazz Festival, and the Isla Jazz
Festival. She shared how the decision to relocate was in
part inspired by a desire to strengthen community ties.
"We used to have an office in a different part of the city
centre, but we realised we needed to be more present in
the community," Anna said. "A lot of what we do, from
artist development to youth education, is tied to
community work. Moving here gave us more space for
our growing team and allowed us to use the centre for
our weekly youth jazz group."
The vibrant atmosphere of Great Western Community
Centre has provided an inspiring backdrop for Jazz
Scotland’s activities. "It’s a really nice space," Anna said.
"There’s always something happening which makes for a
great working environment."
Ana-Maria Gheorghe, Festivals and Programs Coordinator for Jazz Scotland
Since its transformation, the Great Western Community
Centre has become a vibrant space offering a diverse
range of activities for all ages. The centre hosts
everything from baby signing classes and parent-toddler
groups to indoor bowling, yoga, dance fitness, and even
puppy training classes.
Beyond office space, the community centre also serves
as a key venue for the Aberdeen Jazz Festival. Last year,
it hosted ‘Jazz the Day West,’ a day-long event featuring
performances throughout the building. This year, the
festival will return on March 16th, with a full programme
of family-friendly jazz.
Being based in the community centre has helped Jazz
Scotland break down barriers and reach new audiences.
"There are still people who think of jazz as highbrow or
intimidating, but we work to make it accessible" Anna
said. "Having events in welcoming, informal spaces
makes a big difference. Even the centre’s middle room,
“We’ve worked hard to bring in new activities based on
what the community wants,” Andrew noted. “For
example, we recently restarted the indoor bowling group,
which had been inactive since Covid. It was something
people really missed, so we made it happen.”
Beyond fitness and recreation, the centre is also an
important cultural venue. The former sanctuary space
now hosts performances, rehearsals, and community
events.
“We’re lucky to have a fantastic auditorium, which makes
us an ideal venue for groups like Lyric Musical Society
and various choirs. We’re also partnering with Jazz
Scotland to be part of the Aberdeen Jazz Festival and are
lucky to have the organisation’s offices based right here
in the centre”.
Jazz Scotland: A new home at the community centre
As Andrew mentioned, the Aberdeen-based third sector
arts and culture organisation, Jazz Scotland, has found a
new home at Great Western Community Centre, and the
move is already proving to have a positive impact. With
offices now based within a bustling community hub, Jazz
Scotland is deepening its engagement with local
residents at a grassroots level.
Alison, a local resident who attends the weekly indoor bowling sessions

27
ACVO News
March 2025
which you wouldn’t expect to work for music, can be
transformed into a Jazz Kissa - our take on a Japanese
jazz café."
With a growing team, an inspiring space, and a packed
festival schedule, Jazz Scotland is thriving at Great
Western Community Centre. "It’s great to be here," Anna
said. "It really feels like home."
Bringing People Together: The Indoor Bowling Club
Reopening Great Western Community Centre for local
residents has enabled the indoor bowling club to resume,
a development that has been warmly welcomed by those
who participate in the weekly sessions.
Alison, a retired resident from Cults, discovered the club
through an advertisement and decided to give it a try. “I
think it's a fantastic group because you're getting out of
the house, meeting new people from all walks of life, and
having a laugh while socialising,” she said. “The biggest
benefit is that you’re moving and keeping yourself fit. As
you get older, everything stiffens up, so it’s great to stay
active.”
For those unsure about joining, Alison has some advice:
“You don’t have to be super fit or even know how to play
bowls. We are a welcoming group, we will help you learn,
and it’s great fun. Plus, it’s affordable, and you get a cup
of tea or coffee, which is always nice.”
Nicky, another participant, echoed Alison’s sentiments.
“There are lots of people on their own suffering from
loneliness. Making that first step through the door is
always the hardest part, but this is such a welcoming
space,” she explained. “Rather than going into a big place
alone, like a restaurant or cinema, this is a nice way to
ease into a sense of community.”
Having only recently joined, Nicky has already found the
club to be a valuable experience. “Everybody is very
friendly and helpful. I’m really enjoying my time here and
hope to do more things at Great Western Community
Centre. Andrew is an absolute gem - he and the team are
working hard to build relationships with the wider
community.”
Anne, a long-time bowler, appreciates the accessibility of
the club. “I’ve been bowling on and off for 12 years
outdoors, but I like having an indoor option when the
weather is bad,” she shared. “It’s keeping me busy, and I
enjoy meeting new people each week.”
Despite living with arthritis, Anne finds that bowling helps
her stay active. “I have an arthritic knee after a fall 16
years ago. Although I may not be the best, I still manage
to bowl and have fun while staying active,” she said. “The
folk at the group are very chatty and friendly, and at just
£2 for a two-hour session in a warm space, it’s incredibly
affordable.”

ACVO News
March 2025
28
“We want to ensure
that Great Western
Community Centre is
truly a place for
everyone. The more
people get involved,
the stronger our
community becomes”
Andrew Murray, Great Western Community
Centre Manager and Development Officer
Looking to the Future
Reflecting on the journey so far, Andrew remains
excited about the centre’s potential.
“We still have capacity to expand our programmes and
reach even more people,” he said. “There are groups
within the community that are still underrepresented,
and we’re keen to engage with them. We want to
ensure that Great Western Community Centre is truly a
place for everyone. Social isolation is a key challenge
that we're looking to address here, as it is across the
network of amazing community centre’s we have
around Aberdeen”.
But it’s not just about the present - securing the future
of the centre is just as crucial. With an aging building,
there’s an ongoing need for maintenance and
improvements.
“We’ve already managed to secure funding to help
insulate the building and reduce energy costs, but
there’s always more to be done. Keeping this space
accessible and sustainable for future generations is a
top priority,” Andrew emphasised.
As the centre continues to grow, there is always room
for more involvement from the local community. “We
are always looking for volunteers,” Andrew said.
“People of all ages can contribute, whether it’s helping
out at our parent-toddler group or assisting with
events. The more people get involved, the stronger our
community becomes.”
For Andrew, this role is more than just a job - it’s a
passion. “After 23 years as a bank manager, I made the
move to community work full-time. I’ve always been
deeply involved in volunteering, so to now have the
opportunity to do this as my career is a privilege.”
The Great Western Community Centre stands as a
testament to what can be achieved when people come
together for a common cause. Thanks to the
dedication of local residents and committed individuals
like Andrew, this former church has been transformed
into a thriving hub that will continue to serve the
community for years to come.
Find out more about Great Western Community
Centre and how you can get involved by supporting
their work at www.gwccentre.co.uk

FUNDING ACVO News
32
March 2025
Port of Aberdeen launches £25,000
fund for local community projects
P
£25,000
ort of Aberdeen
launches its 2025
supPORT-all charity
programme, offering
in funding to
support local community projects.
Charities and community groups
operating in areas close to the port –
Altens, Balnagask, City Centre, Cove,
Footdee, Garthdee, Kincorth, Torry,
and Tullos – can now apply online for
grants of up to £7,500. In addition to
financial support, successful projects
may also benefit from donations of
time, resources, and equipment from
Port of Aberdeen where appropriate.
In 2024, nine local charities and
community groups received funding,
supporting initiatives ranging from
interactive sound play activities and
clothing packs for primary school
children to community physiotherapy
sessions.
Jordan Harkins, Head of
Communications, Port of Aberdeen
said: “We’re a socially responsible
Trust Port operating in the heart of
the city and having a positive
relationship with the local community
is incredibly important to us. We look
forward to partnering with a diverse
range of groups this year and
contributing to their crucial work in
the community.
“Our supPORT-all programme has
helped those most in need in local
communities for over a decade. I
encourage any eligible local charities
and community groups in need of
support to apply.”
One of last year’s beneficiaries, the
Russell Anderson Foundation,
received £2,500 to deliver practical
cooking sessions for the children
across partner schools and to
purchase equipment and supplies.
Graeme Burnett, CEO, Russell
Anderson Foundation, said: “The
funding from Port of Aberdeen
enabled us to create a lifestyle
project for families. We’re proud that
similar Skills Hubs are being opened
in other parts of Aberdeen, learning
from the benefits of the Port’s
funding.”
Full details of the supPORT-all
funding criteria and application
process are available online.
Applications must be submitted using
the online form by 5:00pm on
Wednesday 26 March 2025.
Applicants will be notified of the
outcome in April.

33
ACVO News
March 2025
Opportunities
Ethnic Minority Development Fund (EMDF)
CEMVO Scotland and The National Lottery Community Fund
The Ethnic Minority Development Fund (EMDF) is available to any ethnic
minority-led third-sector organisations in Scotland. The EMDF has been
developed in partnership between CEMVO Scotland and The National Lottery
Community Fund.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants to the Ethnic Minority Development Fund (EMDF) must be
‘ethnic minority-led’ and have at least sixty percent representation of people
from an ethnic minority background on their board, management team and
in decision-making roles.
Your organisation or group has an annual income of £ 100,000- or less.
A Community Interest Company (C. I. C.) has to be operating for at least six
months to apply for the Ethnic Minority Development Fund (EMDF).
Organisations interested in applying to the EMDF will be required to submit an
application that must do at least one of the following:
Bring ethnic minority people together and build strong relationships across
communities
Help more ethnic minority people to be the best they can be, by supporting
them as soon as possible
Improve places and spaces that matter to ethnic minority communities
Organisations can apply for up to a minimum of £500 up to a maximum of
£15,000 for their project idea.
Find out more at acvo.org.uk/opportunities/funding
Community
Funding Available:
£500 - £15,000
Applications close:
14/04/2025
Fairer Life Chances
The National Lottery Community Fund Scotland
Projects should support people experiencing poverty, disadvantage or discrimination.
Your project should be designed with the people you support.
Community
Funding Available:
£20,001 to £500,000
Applications close:
31/07/2025
You should:
involve them in how it’s developed, delivered and led
make use of their existing skills and interests
complement and make connections with other services that support them.
Projects must meet one of these outcomes:
Children, young people and families thrive.
People have better relationships, connections, and physical or mental health.
See what the the National Lottery Community Fund are hoping to support for details
and priorities.
You can achieve both outcomes. But you will not improve your chances of getting
funding by achieving both outcomes.
They offer funding from £20,001 to £500,000 for up to 5 years and want to fund
different sizes of organisations and projects. But expect that most funding will be for
£250,000 or less.
They can fund organisations that have not had long-term funding before (lasting 2
years or more) but they are unlikely to offer them more than £100,000 in total.
The fund will support new or existing projects.
Find out more at acvo.org.uk/opportunities/funding
Funding
discover more funding opportunities collected with
Aberdeen's third sector in mind on our funding portal at
acvo.org.uk/opportunities/funding

Opportunities
ACVO News
March 2025
38
Events
Events in March
6th
11th
17th
Our Aberdeen at the Aberdeen
Treasure Hub: Makers Mark
Explore Aberdeen’s innovation, creativity and
industry through artworks, ship models and
textiles.
Stay well, stay connected and learn something
new about the history of the North East
through objects in the city’s collection. These
relaxed and sociable sessions are led by our
fantastic community of local volunteers.
No need to book, just come along. These free
sessions include a cup of tea / coffee and a
biscuit. Everyone is welcome – we look
forward to seeing you. Please consider making
a donation to support our programme, pay
what you can!
Other sessions:
April 3 : Sickness and health
May 1: At your service
June 5: Museum misfits
ACVO Online Lunch & Learn –
Cyber Security
Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland – An
Introduction to Cybercrime Affecting
Charities, How To Prepare, Prevent and
Respond
The charity sector in Scotland is
disproportionately targeted by cyber criminals
seeking to steal data and hold the charity to
ransom, or to compromise emails, leading to
the loss of significant sums of money.
Alex Dowall from the Cyber and Fraud Centre
Scotland will give an overview of the most
common threats facing charities, highlight some
practical advice from real life scenarios and
highlight what steps we can take to ensure we
are in the best position to meet these threats
head on and highlight the support that exists in
Scotland to the charity sector if faced with
such a scenario.
RGU Celebration of World
Social Work Day
RGU are celebrating World Social Work Day
with the theme of Strengthening
Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring
Wellbeing on Monday 17th March 2025.
Activities on the day include interactive art,
cooking, games, and conversations on
environmental social work and on the
changing social work profession with social
workers at different points of their careers.
We will also be asking people to ‘send a
message’ to future generations and share
recipes with personal meaning, for a
collective recipe book. Please come along
and help us celebrate!
If you would like to be involved in the day
contact s.ferguson7@rgu.ac.uk
Date Thur 5 March 2025
Date Tue 11 March 2025
Date Mon 17 March 2025
Time
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Time
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Time
10:30 am - 4:00 pm
Cost Pay what you can -
donations welcome
Cost
Free
Cost
Free
Organiser
Aberdeen Archives,
Gallery and Museums
Organiser
ACVO TSI
Organiser
Robert Gordon University
Venue
Aberdeen Treasure
Hub , Granitehill Road,
Aberdeen, AB16 7AX
Venue
Online
Venue
RGU – Sir Ian Wood
Building, Garthdee Road,
Aberdeen, AB10 7GJ,
Find out more via ACVO Events
Find out more via ACVO Events
Find out more via ACVO Events

39
ACVO News
March 2025
Opportunities
Cruse Scotland Free Community
Grief Training
Cruse Scotland and Co-op are working in
partnership to deliver grief information
sessions to members of the community. The
Co-op have generously funded these in
person sessions, allowing us to offer them to
you on a cost free basis.
This sessions are designed to upskill people in
the community to feel more comfortable,
confident and compassionate to talk about
death and bereavement. The aim is to
empower individuals and support others to
feel more comfortable too. The sessions are
designed for any individual who interacts with
the public, to give basic skills to support
community members experiencing grief.
This sessions are aimed for people in the
following roles:
• Volunteers in community settings
• Library staff
• Retail staff
• Faith groups
• Hairdressers, barbers, café staff
• any individual really, who regularly engages
with the public in non-therapeutic capacity
ACVO Event – Exploring digital
communications and campaigns
Join Communications Officer, Andrew
Davidson, and Digital Media Assistant, Emily
Shepherd, for a closer look at recent
developments and digital projects
implemented by ACVO TSI to help increase the
visibility of Aberdeen’s third sector.
This in person event will offer the opportunity
to explore recent innovative initiatives and
engaging campaigns from ACVO as well as the
wider third sector community. Discover more
about the impact of digital communications as
we examine successful projects, share best
practices, and discuss strategies to amplify the
voices of Aberdeen’s third sector.
As well as the planned information session,
there will be the opportunity to meet and
network with others working within your local
third sector.
Don’t miss out on this chance to connect, learn,
and collaborate towards a stronger, more
digitally empowered Aberdeen third sector.
Gathimba Edwards Foundation
Speed Quiz fundraiser
Our quiz nights in Aberdeen are a chance to
get your friends together for a bite to eat
and a bit of fun while raising money for kids
in Kenya and north-east Scotland.
It will be a quiz with a difference that also
makes a difference.
Kicking off at 7.30pm, it is teams of 4-6 for
the Speed Quiz and includes a pie on arrival
for £12pp. Individuals are also welcome and
we will team you up with others – apologies
in advance if you are teamed up with me!
All funds raised will go towards our projects
supporting kids in Kenya and north-east
Scotland.
Please email
info@gathimbaedwardsfoundation.org to
reserve your place.
Date Mon 17 March 2025
Date Wed 19 March 2025
Date Wed 19 March 2025
Time
1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Time
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Time
7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Cost
Free
Cost
Free
Cost
£12pp
Organiser
Cruse Scotland
Organiser
ACVO TSI
Organiser
Gathimba Edwards Foundation
Venue
Four Pillars 33 Regent Quay,
Aberdeen AB11 5BE, ,
Venue
The Salvation Army, Castle
Street, Aberdeen AB11 5BG
Venue Motif Aberdeen, 50
Langstane Place, Aberdeen,
Find out more via ACVO Events
Find out more via ACVO Events
Find out more via ACVO Events
17th
19th
19th
Discover more events from and for
Aberdeen's third sector and add yours
free of charge to our public calendar at
acvo.org.uk/events

Vacancies
ACVO News
March 2025
40
GREC Policy Officer (maternity cover)
Grampian Regional Equality Council (GREC)
£28,000 – £29,000 pro rata Part time
14 hrs per week (flexible, to be agreed)
Temporary
Aberdeen Closing date: 16/03/2025 Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies
This is an exciting opportunity to join GREC as Policy Officer and focus on working across GREC’s projects and services to
ensure that the lived experiences of our clients and community connections are captured to effectively tackle inequalities
and discrimination affecting communities in Grampian.
This role is crucial for GREC to continue meeting one of its strategic outcomes, which is to influence policy and practice at a
national and local level.
For informal enquiries, please e-mail mjpavez@grec.co.uk or phone 01224 595505.
Applications to be returned by noon on Sunday 16th March 2025.
Interviews will be held Tuesday 25th March.
About Grampian Regional Equality Council (GREC)
We work to tackle prejudice and discrimination, celebrate diversity, build positive community relations, and provide evidence
to change policy and practice. We provide tailored training sessions and workshops on equality and diversity themes, as well
as specific courses on: Introduction to Equalities; Unconscious Bias; Intersectionality; and Working Effectively with
Interpreters. Our consultancy model is about developing a partnership with organisations, helping them identify why equality
is important to their work, and facilitating discussions and helping plan a way forward.
Read full job description
Download Application Form
Fundraising Manager
Aberdeen Science Centre
£32,000 pro rata Part Time 30 hours Permanent Aberdeen
Closing date: 10/03/2025
Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies
The Fundraising Manager will develop Aberdeen Science Centre’s corporate sponsorship income as well as supporting
wider fundraising activities to support projects across the organisation.
Working closely with the Head of Fundraising, the Fundraising Manager will support the achievement of the corporate
sponsorship income target for the organisation through acquiring sponsorship to benefit both its restricted and unrestricted
activities.
The Fundraising Manager will attend networking events, utilise their existing network and contacts and research new
prospective sponsors. They will meet with prospective sponsors and create bespoke, creative and inspiring proposals to grow
income. An area of focus will be to generate income from a diverse range of STEM industries including but not limited to Life
Sciences, Space and Food and Drink.
Whilst identifying opportunities, writing and submitting proposals will be a significant part of the role, it will also support and
facilitate others across the organisation in achieving their funding targets.
The Fundraising Manager will also assist in the development of Aberdeen Science Centre’s individual giving including our
donation points, online donations and campaigns.
The post holder will be expected to work flexibly within the team, with a willingness to work evening and weekends as
required.
The role is hybrid: 75% of hours to be worked from office at Aberdeen Science Centre and 25% hours can be worked from
home.

41
ACVO News
March 2025
Vacancies
Assistant Coordinator
Silver City Surfers
To be agreed
Part time
Up to 10 hours per week
Fixed Term
Aberdeen Closing date: 16/03/2025 Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies
Silver City Surfers (SCS) is a long-established small charity run by volunteers that provides free 1-2-1 support to adults who
have limited or no experience of IT. Our sessions link a social aspect with learning in a supportive and encouraging
environment tailored to the individual, where people feel comfortable learning something new.
This is an excellent part-time opportunity, based in Aberdeen City, for a people-oriented technology enthusiast with multitasking
abilities and good organisational skills.
The role involves assisting the Coordinator to support and develop City SCS services that meet the needs of our target group
of learners (i.e. adults who want to gain new technology skills) through volunteer supported initiatives including internet café
and one-to-one tuition.
This role is offered on a contractual/self-employed basis for up to 10 hours per week and is for six months initially with
potential for renewal thereafter.
If this is you, please contact our Chairman, Louise Farmer: Silvercitysurfers.trustees@gmail.com
Children and Family Support Worker
Charlie House
£30,000 to £33,000 per annum FTE Full Time or Part Time Permanent Aberdeen
Closing date: 10/03/2025
Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies
Charlie House supports babies, children and young people with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, and their
families, across the north-east of Scotland. The goal is simple – to help children to live as full lives as possible and help
make precious memories for the whole family at the most difficult of times.
We have an exciting opportunity within the Services team at Charlie House for an experienced support worker who is an
organised self-starter to join us as Children and Family Support Worker, reporting to the Children and Family Support
Manager.
This post will have responsibility for delivering high quality and consistent emotional and practical support the families who
seek support from Charlie House. You will engage and support siblings and parents, with pre and post bereavement support
whilst acting as an advocate on behalf of the families that Charlie House support.
We are looking for someone who, has experience of working with children with life limiting or life threatening conditions, and
their families. With a requirement for strong communication skills, this role is for someone who had experience in developing
and delivering support sessions and is as passionate and enthusiastic as we are about helping the Charlie House community
and help local children live life to the full.
If you feel that you have the skills, enthusiasm and ambition to help make that happen, we look forward to receiving your
application.
If you have any queries about the role or would like an informal confidential chat, please contact Leigh Ryrie, Children and
Family Support Manager at leigh@charliehouse.org.uk

Vacancies
ACVO News
March 2025
42
Senior Administrator
NESCAN Hub
£24,800 to £26,500 per year Full Time 37.5 hours per week Fixed Term Aberdeen
Closing date: 16/03/2025
Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies
Location: Based in Aberdeen Office (with some flexibility for remote working for the right applicant)
Salary: From £24,800 to £26.500 per year (depending on experience) per annum plus 5% pension contribution
Hours: Full time (37.5 hours per week), with a minimum of 3 ‘in office’ days per week
About the Role
An opportunity has arisen for a senior administrator, who will play a pivotal role in supporting the day-to-day operations
of the charity.
This role encompasses a broad range of administrative, organisational, and operational tasks, all aimed at ensuring the
smooth running of the office, providing vital support to senior management, and coordinating activities across various teams.
As part of a dynamic, values-driven network and organisation, focused on tackling climate change in North East Scotland, this
is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong organisational skills, a keen eye for detail, and a proactive approach to
office management. The Senior Administrator will contribute significantly to advancing NESCAN Hub’s mission for fostering
community-led action to address climate change and promote sustainability.
NESCAN Hub promotes equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace and in our network, and welcomes applications
from all sections of society.
Download Application Form
Mental Health & Wellbeing Practitioner:
Aberdeen Mental Health Service
Penumbra
£24,374 - £25,687 per annum (£12.50 - £13.17 p/h equivalent) Full Time
37.5 hours per week
Permanent
Aberdeen Closing date: 18/03/2025 Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies
If you are looking for a rewarding career and to work within an epic team that will help you grow and thrive, then you have
come to the right place. Working within our Aberdeen Mental Health Service you can start your day knowing what you do
really does make a difference!
The service provides housing and care at home support to people with mental health issues. All support is provided on an
outreach basis within people’s home or community. The service is available to people aged over 18, who live in Aberdeen City.
As a Mental Health & Wellbeing Practitioner, you’ll make a difference to people’s lives every day. Mental Health & Wellbeing
Practitioners supervise small collaborative teams to provide people with recovery focused Housing Support to enhance their
mental wellbeing. In line with Penumbra’s values, Mental Health & Wellbeing Practitioners assist people who use the service
to work towards their individual outcomes and identified goals, as detailed in their personal plan. We support people within
their home and in their community.
As a mental health charity, we really value the wellbeing of our staff. That’s why we want you to know that you’ll be joining a
friendly team, who will give you a supportive environment to help you thrive in your role, including all the training you need to
feel confident and equipped.
We can offer you a tonne of employee benefits, and we can promise you’ll be inspired by some pretty amazing humans every
single day. We will support you on your own career path; developing new skills, accessing formal and informal learning
experiences and providing opportunities to put your continual progress into practice.

acvo.org.uk