ACVO News May 2026

ACVO News

May 2026

The Latest from Aberdeen’s Third Sector Community

© 2026 Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations Scottish Charity No: SC036845

MAY 2026

CONTENTS

About ACVO TSI

Updates from the ACVO Team

The latest insight and reflection on Aberdeen’s third

sector from our team here at ACVO TSI

News from Aberdeen’s Third Sector

News, updates, achievements and opportunities

from our member organisations and the wider sector

Volunteering

Get involved with all the latest volunteering

opportunities from Volunteer Aberdeen.

Funding

Funding news and opportunities to ensure your work

is sustainable and supported

Events

Connect with the wider third sector and join in with

the community at an event happening soon

Vacancies

Looking for your next career move? Find a rewarding

role working within Aberdeen’s vibrant third sector

ACVO (Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations) is the Third Sector

Interface (TSI) for Aberdeen. We have over 20 years’ experience working

in the city as the central hub of knowledge relating to the local third

sector. The work we do is reflected in our organisational values which are

central to our decision-making processes and are incorporated into

everything we do, namely: We put the Third Sector first; We empower

communities; We act on lived experience; We demand equality;

We stand up for those who need help most

© 2026 Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations Scottish Charity No: SC036845

Get in touch

enquiries@acvo.org.uk

www.acvo.org.uk

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ACVO TSI 38 Castle Street

Aberdeen, AB11 5YU

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26

Why I Vounteer in

Aberdeen with

Instant Neighbour

As part of our Why I Volunteer

in Aberdeen series, we spoke

to Ken and Kimberley to hear

about their experience,

inspirations and motivations

behind volunteering at

Instant Neighbour.

06

ACVO Launches Insights

Podcast to Spotlight

Aberdeen’s Third Sector

We’re excited to announce the

launch of our brand new ACVO

Insights podcast series! Listen to

the first episode featuring Policy

and Consultations Officer Alasdair

Ross discussing what “community

empowerment” really means.

22

A Milestone for

MindLink: Building

Accessible Mental

Health Support in

Aberdeen

What began as a small,

community led project,

MindLink has grown into a

multi-language service

supporting individuals across

different backgrounds and

experiences.

There is a clear thread running

through this month’s edition around

reflection, voice and how we

continue to tell the story of the sector

in Aberdeen. That is seen both in

marking significant moments and in

creating new opportunities to share

learning, insight and experience

across our communities.

We begin by recognising the retirement of Gette

Cobban, whose contribution over more than two

decades has had a lasting impact on the third sector in

Aberdeen. Her work has strengthened relationships,

supported collaboration and helped shape a more

connected approach across organisations, particularly

through her leadership around The Promise. It is

important to take time to acknowledge that

contribution and the difference it has made.

Alongside this, we are introducing new ways to

explore the issues shaping the sector. The launch of

the ACVO Insights podcast creates space for more indepth

discussion, bringing forward voices and

perspectives from across Aberdeen. The first episode

focuses on community empowerment, offering a

thoughtful look at how this is understood in practice

and the challenges that sit alongside it.

This edition also highlights the continued importance

of improving access and understanding through the

work of relatively new organisation, MindLink. Their

development as a service reflects both growing need

and the value of approaches which are responsive,

inclusive and grounded in lived experience. It is a

strong example of how services can evolve to better

support individuals and communities.

04

Gette Cobban Retires

After Supporting

Aberdeen’s Third

Sector for 20 Years

The team at ACVO thank Gette

for her incredible contribution

to our work – and that of the

sector in Aberdeen - as she retires

from her role as Senior

Development Officer (The

Promise) at ACVO.

As always, individual experiences remain central to

that wider picture. This month’s “Why I Volunteer”

feature, including short film contributions from

volunteers at Instant Neighbour, provides a direct

insight into the motivations and impact of

volunteering. These stories bring a human perspective

to the work taking place across the city, reinforcing the

importance of visibility and shared experience.

Alongside this, the wider news, opportunities and

updates in this edition reflect the ongoing activity,

commitment and collaboration across Aberdeen’s

third sector, highlighting both the breadth of work

taking place and the many ways people can continue

to get involved, support local organisations and

connect with their communities.

Maggie Hepburn

Chief Executive, ACVO TSI

maggie.hepburn@acvo.org.uk


ACVO News | May 2026 | 04


Gette Cobban Retires After

Impactful Career Supporting

Aberdeen’s Third Sector for

More Than 20 Years

The team at ACVO would like to thank Gette for her contribution

to our work – and that of the sector in Aberdeen - as she retires

from her role with us as Senior Development Officer (The Promise).

Gette joined ACVO in May 2023, bringing with her

more than 20 years of experience in the third sector

in Aberdeen. Over the course of her career, she

worked with organisations including Aberdeen Cyrenians,

Home-Start Aberdeen and Aberlour.

Her work has consistently focused on supporting children,

young people and families, as well as strengthening practice

across services.

During her time at ACVO, Gette supported organisations

across Aberdeen to play their part in delivering The Promise.

Central to her approach was a clear view of the role as a

connector – bringing together the third sector, statutory

partners and wider services to support a more joined-up

approach and ensure the sector’s voice was represented.

A key achievement during her time at ACVO was establishing

and leading The Promise Forum for the third sector in

Aberdeen. This created a space for organisations to share their

work, discuss challenges and build stronger working

relationships, contributing to a more coordinated approach

across the sector.

Gette also coordinated the “Working to Keep The Promise in

Aberdeen” campaign, which developed following a multiagency

event at Aberdeen Town House. The event brought

together partners from across the third sector and public

services to reflect on progress and strengthen a shared

commitment to The Promise. Building on this, the campaign

highlighted work taking place across the city, featuring stories

from organisations such as Home-Start Aberdeen and Sport

Aberdeen. Having the campaign boards on display at

Marischal College and the Aberdeen Vaccination Centre also

helped raise wider awareness of The Promise and the

contribution of local organisations.

Throughout her time at ACVO, Gette focused on building

relationships and improving communication between

organisations. This has helped strengthen connections across

the sector and supported a more joined-up approach to

delivering The Promise in Aberdeen.

Reflecting on Gette’s contribution, Maggie Hepburn Chief

Executive at ACVO said: “Gette has made a significant

contribution not just during her time at ACVO, but across her

entire career in the third sector in Aberdeen. She brought

experience, credibility and a strong understanding of the local

landscape to this role, and used that to build meaningful

connections between organisations. Her work has

strengthened how the sector works together around The

Promise, and that will have a lasting impact. We thank her for

everything she has given over the years and wish her all the

very best in her retirement.”

As she retires, Gette is looking forward to spending more time

with her new granddaughter but says her time with third

sector in Aberdeen may not be over just yet!

Everyone at ACVO thanks Gette for her contribution, her

support as a colleague, and the difference she has made across

the third sector in Aberdeen. She leaves with our very best

wishes and will be greatly missed here at ACVO.

Gette has made a significant

contribution not just during her time at

ACVO, but across her entire career in the

third sector in Aberdeen. She brought

experience, credibility and a strong

understanding of the local landscape to

this role, and used that to build meaningful

connections between organisations.

05| ACVO News | May 2026


ACVO Launches

Insights Podcast to

Spotlight Aberdeen’s

Third Sector

T

he team at ACVO are

excited to announce the

launch of our new podcast,

ACVO Insights, creating space

for more in depth conversations

about the issues, challenges and

experiences shaping Aberdeen’s

third sector.

The podcast builds on the work

we do every day at ACVO to

support and represent local

organisations. It offers a new

way to explore topics in more

detail, hear directly from those

working across the sector and

share insight into what’s

happening on the ground in

Aberdeen. Over time, ACVO

Insights will feature a range of

voices from charities,

community groups and social

enterprises across the city.

The first episode features our

Policy and Consultations

Officer, Alasdair Ross, in

conversation with

Communications Officer

Andrew Davidson. They take a

closer look at what ‘community

empowerment’ really means

in practice, moving beyond

policy language to consider

how it is experienced by

organisations and

communities. The discussion

explores how the term is used,

how it can sometimes shift

responsibility onto

communities, and the

increasing pressure on the

third sector to deliver essential

services in a challenging

funding environment.

ACVO Insights is available

now on Spotify, Apple

Podcasts and Amazon Music,

with episodes also set to be

available through the ACVO

website soon.

We’re keen for the podcast to

reflect the breadth of the sector

and are looking for guests from

across Aberdeen to take part in

future episodes. If you’d like to

share your work, highlight a

project, or discuss an issue

affecting your organisation or

the wider sector, we’d be happy

to hear from you about a

potential guest spot.

If you would like to talk about

a potential feature, you can get

in touch with Andrew

Davidson, Communications

Officer via email at

andrew.davidson@acvo.org.uk

New episodes of ACVO

Insights will be coming soon as

we continue to develop the

podcast and bring more voices

into the conversation.

Alasdair

WHAT DOES 'C

EMPOWERMENT



You can watch the first podcast episode above - keep an eye out on our social media

feeds during May when we will launch there. The podcast is also available to watch

and listen via Spotify with audio only versions available via Apple Podcasts and

Amazon Music - follow ACVO Insights where you get your podcasts and please share

the episode to help us get the word out. More episodes coming soon!

Ross:

OMMUNITY

' REALLY MEAN?



Strengthening employer

supported volunteering

with a new national

framework for Scotland

A new national Employer Supported Volunteering

Framework, developed by Volunteer Scotland and

partners, provides practical guidance to help

employers, employees and organisations build

meaningful, inclusive volunteering opportunities

words by

Mike Melvin, Volunteering Services Manager, ACVO TSI

It has been another

tremendously positive

month for volunteering,

with the launch of the new

National Employer Supported

Volunteering Framework

marking an important step

forward for our sector here in

Aberdeen and across Scotland.

ACVO is delighted to be part of

and support this significant

development. The Framework,

led by Volunteer Scotland in

partnership with the Scottish

Government and a wide range

of sector partners, provides

clear and practical guidance to

help employers, employees

and volunteer involving

organisations navigate their

Employer Supported

Volunteering journey.

What stands out most to me is

the strength of collaboration

behind this work. Bringing

together national partners,

Third Sector Interfaces and

employers creates a shared

approach that will help

ensure Employer

Supported Volunteering

is not only

more accessible, but

also more meaningful

and impactful.

Whether

organisations are

just starting out or

looking to build on

existing activity, the

Framework offers

a tremendous

range of tools

principles and support to guide

that journey.

There is also a very real

opportunity here. Research

from Volunteer Scotland

highlights that increasing

Employer Supported

Volunteering could enable

between 161,000 and 287,000

more people to volunteer

across Scotland. That is a

remarkable figure and one that

underlines the potential of

strengthening links between

employers and the voluntary

sector.

The Framework also sits within

the wider Volunteering

Knowledge Gateway, a new

central hub supporting

volunteering practice,

development and impact. As

Rosie Wylie, Deputy CEO and

Head of Innovation &

Operations at Volunteer

Scotland, notes: “The

Knowledge Gateway marks a

strategic step forward for

volunteering in Scotland. By

bringing together high-quality

guidance, training, and shared

learning from Volunteer

Scotland and a range of

Trusted Partners and Public

Information Providers we are

strengthening the foundation

that supports volunteers and

the organisations they power.”

Here in Aberdeen, we already

see excellent examples of

Employer Supported

Volunteering making a

difference.

This Framework provides a

strong foundation to build on

that success, helping to

connect more people with

opportunities that benefit both

communities and workplaces.

It also reinforces something we

know to be true – that volunteering

works best when it is

supported, structured and

valued at every level.

Alongside this, it is also an

exciting time as we look ahead

to Volunteers Week 2026,

taking place from 1st to 7th

June.

This is always a fantastic

opportunity to recognise and

celebrate the tremendous

contribution of volunteers

ACVO News | May 2026| 08


across the country, and

especially here in Aberdeen.

There is already a great deal of

momentum building.

Volunteers Week gives us a

chance to say thank you, to

highlight the incredible work

taking place across our

communities and to encourage

even more people to get

involved. With over 6.4 million

hours of volunteering

contributed annually in

Aberdeen alone, the scale and

impact of this contribution is

truly magnificent.

As the Lord Provost of

Aberdeen, Cllr. Dr David J

Cameron, so rightly recognises:

“As Lord Provost of Aberdeen I

would like to record my

enormous thanks to all

volunteers in the city.

Currently in Aberdeen there

are in excess of 1000 voluntary

organisations logging more

than 6.4 million hours of

voluntary help annually. These

statistics are based on known

information and the reality is

that the actual figures are even

higher. Everyone involved is a

hero making life so much

better for thousands of our

fellow citizens. Thank You, it is

truly a privilege to be the civic

leader of a city where such

altruism exists.”

For me, there is a strong

connection between the

launch of the Employer


Framework and Volunteers

Week. Both reflect the same

underlying message – that

volunteering is a powerful force

for good, and that by working

together we can continue to

grow and strengthen it for the

future.

As we move into the summer,

there is a tremendous

opportunity to build on this

momentum. By embracing

new approaches like Employer

Supported Volunteering, while

continuing to celebrate and

support those already giving

their time, we can ensure that

volunteering remains

inclusive, accessible and

rewarding for everyone.

It is an exciting time for the

sector, and I look forward to

seeing how this new

Framework helps shape the

next chapter of volunteering

across Aberdeen and beyond.

Want to get involved with

the National Employer


Framework or Volunteers’

Week 2026?

If you are looking to get started

or build on your Employer

Supported Volunteering, you

can explore the new national

Framework and find further

guidance through the

Volunteering Knowledge

Gateway at

volunteerscotland.net/knowle

dge-gateway

With Volunteers Week 2026 (1–

7 June) fast approaching, you

ACVO is delighted to be part of

and support this significant

development. The Framework, led

by Volunteer Scotland in partnership

with the Scottish Government and a

wide range of sector partners,

provides clear and practical guidance

to help employers, employees and

volunteer-involving organisations

navigate their Employer Supported

Volunteering journey.

you can access free resources

and ways to get involved at

volunteersweek.org/resources

and share your thanks at

volunteersweek.org/ourpadlet.

Keep a watch on our Volunteer

Aberdeen and ACVO websites

as well where we will be sharing

latest news and special

Volunteers Week video’s from

volunteers in Aberdeen -

volunteeraberdeen.org.uk/ and

acvo.org.uk/

If you’re interested in

volunteering, visit Volunteer

Aberdeen to explore the latest

local opportunities.

Questions around

volunteering? Email me at

mike.melvin@acvo.org.uk

09| ACVO News | April 2026

Aberdeen Third Sector Updates

Laura Main

announced

as patron of

Aberdeen

Arts Centre

Star of stage and screen Laura Main has

been announced as the new patron of

Aberdeen Arts Centre.

The Call the Midwife actor, who hails

from Aberdeen, landed her first starring

role at the age of 13 at the Arts Centre.

She is now coming full circle to support

the grassroots arts venue during the

ongoing Save Aberdeen Arts Centre

fundraising campaign.



Laura said: “Aberdeen

Arts Centre holds a very

special place in my

heart. It’s where I began my

performing career, so to be

returning as the centre’s patron

is a real honour.

“The opportunities that the

Arts Centre provides for

thousands of performers every

year – both amateur and

professional – are vital for the

creative longevity of the north

east of Scotland.

“I could not be more proud to

help shine a light on all the

incredible things that take

place here.”

The announcement coincides

with the release of a short

documentary, fronted by Laura

and produced by north east

video marketing agency

Farsight. The documentary can

be viewed at on YouTube .

Laura added: “While making

this film, I was struck by the

legacy of Aberdeen Arts Centre

– all the performers who have

graced the stage in the past,

and all those still to step out

into the spotlight.

“Speak to anyone in Aberdeen,

and they all have a tale to tell

about the Arts Centre. That’s

why it’s such an important

place. We want to ensure that

new stories continue to be

written through the

experiences of Aberdonians for

generations to come.

“Aberdeen Arts Centre was

founded to be the home of

grassroots arts in Aberdeen,

providing a space for

community performances to

flourish, and it continues to do

that to this day.

“Getting involved in the arts at

a grassroots level – whether as a

child or later in life – has so

many benefits, and not just for

those who want a career

onstage.

“As well as building life skills

including confidence and

resilience, there’s something

special about being part of a

group that shares your interests

and is working together to

create something new. It’s a real

opportunity to make

friendships that last a lifetime.”

Laura Main first fell in love with

Aberdeen Arts Centre in the

1980s, attending creative

workshops in the grassroots

arts venue during the school

holidays.

Subsequently enrolling in local

dance school Danscentre, she

went on to play the lead in

Phoenix Theatre’s inaugural

production – Annie – at the Arts

Centre.

Just a couple of years later, she

also appeared in the debut

show from Aberdeen Youth

Music Theatre – another of the

city’s long-running amateur

groups that got its start in

Aberdeen Arts Centre.

Sharon Catchpole, executive

director of Aberdeen Arts

Centre, said: “We are thrilled to

welcome Laura Main to the

Aberdeen Arts Centre family as

our new patron.

“Her journey from young

performer taking her first steps

on stage to renowned actor is

the perfect example of why

Aberdeen Arts Centre is so

important for the people of

Aberdeen.

“The Arts Centre provides a

home for over 35 local

performing groups, as well as

hundreds of Creative Learning

participants and early-career

professionals through our

Artist Development

programme.

“For over 60 years,

opportunities have been

provided here that simply

aren’t available anywhere else –

and we are fiercely passionate

about continuing that tradition

for another 60 years and

beyond.”

Aberdeen Arts Centre is an

independent arts venue in the

heart of Aberdeen, operated by

registered charity Castlegate

Arts Ltd for over a quarter of a

century.

For more than 60 years,

Aberdeen Arts Centre has

played a crucial role in the

north east’s vibrant arts scene

through its programme of

performances, Creative

Learning Programme for

children and adults, and an

Artist Development

Programme to support local

professional creatives.

In May 2025, the centre

launched the Save Aberdeen

Arts Centre campaign – a threeyear

fundraising drive to secure

its future. Individuals and

corporate sponsors can find out

more and donate at

aberdeenartscentre.com/saveaberdeen-arts-centre.

Aberdeen Arts Centre

encompasses a 350-seater

auditorium; café bar; flexible

spaces for performances,

events, exhibitions and

meetings; and the Children’s

Theatre, opened by Catherine

Hollingworth in the 1950s as a

pioneering youth theatre (the

first of its kind in the UK) and

now used as a vital resource for

professional artist

development.

11 | ACVO News | May 2026


Funding Boost Helps Home-

Start Aberdeen Strengthen

Early Years Family Support

Cameron McCready, Chief Executive

of Home-Start Aberdeen

ocal family support charity,

LHome-Start Aberdeen has

secured £62,874 in funding

through the Perinatal and

Infant Mental Health (PIMH)

Fund, enabling the charity to

further support families

navigating the challenges of

early parenthood.

The PIMH Fund, provided by

the Scottish Government and

managed by Inspiring Scotland,

supports organisations across

the country to deliver nonclinical

support for babies,

parents and carers affected by,

or at risk of, perinatal and infant

mental health challenges.

The current phase of the fund is

supporting 16 organisations

across Scotland, with a focus on

early intervention, relationshipbuilding

and improving

wellbeing for both parents and

their babies.

Home-Start Aberdeen will use

the funding to continue

delivering its tailored,

relationship-led support to

families during pregnancy and

the early years, a period widely

recognised as critical for both

child development and parental

mental health.

Across the programme,

support is delivered through a

combination of peer support,

volunteer-led services and

practical guidance, helping

parents feel less isolated, more

confident and better able to

meet the needs of their

children.

Cameron McCready, Chief

Executive of Home-Start

Aberdeen, said: “ The early

years of a child’s life can be both

joyful and challenging and for

many families, additional

pressures can have a real

impact on mental wellbeing.

“This funding allows us to

provide support at a time when

it matters most, helping

parents feel more confident,

less isolated and better

equipped to build strong,

nurturing relationships with

their children.

“We see every day the

difference that trusted,

relationship-based support can

make. Being able to continue

and strengthen that support

through this funding is

incredibly important for the

families we work alongside.”

Gathimba Edwards

establishes new Fun

Board to support gr

athimba Edwards Foundation (GEF) has established a new

G Fundraising Advisory Board to support its long term fundraising

strategy as demand for its services continues to grow.

Meeting three times a year, the board will provide strategic guidance

and practical support to strengthen fundraising activity across the UK

and Kenya.

The Fundraising Advisory Board includes David Hunt, Rachael Ayres,

Sarah Millard, David Marshall, Fiona Booth and Tracie Lovie, bringing

a breadth of experience to support the charity’s continued

development.

Although recently formed, the board has already made an impact,

contributing to early fundraising success, including support in

securing event sponsorship.

Myles Edwards, Co-Founder of GEF, said: “As demand for our support



Foundation

draising Advisory

owing demand

grows, it’s important that we continue to strengthen how we fundraise.

With a small team, it is vital we spend our time in the right areas.

“This includes improving our existing fundraising channels and

exploring new, high impact activities. Optimising our fundraising is

the catalyst to GEF supporting more children and families, and I am

delighted to add the support and drive of David, Rachael, Sarah, David,

Fiona and Tracie to our existing GEF team and supporters.

Cruse Scotland’s

new training course

shines a light on the

hidden weight of

grief in older age

Grief touches us all - but

for many older adults

it often goes unseen. Alongside

the loss of lifelong partners and

long-term friendships, later life

can bring the loss of

independence, declining

health, and shrinking social

networks. These layered losses

can create a complex, often

unspoken grief that is too easily

overlooked.

‘Grief in Older Age’ is Cruse

Scotland’s new training course

designed to change that.

Through reflection, discussion,

and lived experience, you’ll

explore how grief manifests in

later life, why it’s often

misunderstood, and most

importantly, how to respond

with empathy, respect, and

practical support.

This course will help you

recognise the unique grief

experiences of older adults,

understand how assumptions

like “it’s to be expected” can

unintentionally diminish their

experiences, and gain

confidence and practical

insight for delivering

meaningful, person

centred support.

Book your individual place or

bring this training to your

team. For organisations, on-site

training is available across

Scotland, tailored to your

workplace and the needs of

your team. To discuss or book,

contact Hannah at

training@crusescotland.org.uk

For individuals, you can

participate in an online session

(maximum 12 participants),

designed to support

meaningful discussion and

learning, with places available

to book via the Cruse Scotland

website.

By investing in this training,

you are taking an important

step towards ensuring that

older people experiencing grief

are met with the recognition,

respect, and care they deserve.

To explore the full range of

bereavement training offered

by Cruse Scotland for

workplaces and individuals,

visit:

crusescotland.org.uk/training

“The Fundraising Advisory Board brings together people who

understand fundraising and share our values. Even at this early stage,

their input, experience and fresh perspective is already making a

difference, and we’re incredibly grateful for their support.”

The initiative reflects GEF’s commitment to building sustainable

support, helping ensure it can continue delivering meaningful, longterm

impact for the communities it serves.



CakeFest 10 Marks Milestone Year

for Popular Community Event

CakeFest celebrated its tenth event

on 21 April 2026, welcoming around

150 people to the Mission Hall on St

Machar Drive in Old Aberdeen.

Organised by Friends of Seaton Park,

the event continues to combine

baking, socialising and fundraising in

support of Seaton Park.

Originally launched in

2014, CakeFest has

grown from a small coffee

morning and bake-off into a

well-established local event.

While it has evolved over time,

including a pause during the

COVID-19 pandemic, its core

appeal remains unchanged.

Sheila Gordon, Chairperson of

the Friends of Seaton Park, said:

“CakeFest is a much loved

phenomenon which started out

as a coffee morning meets bakeoff

event back in 2014. With an

enforced break for Covid, the

format has evolved over the

years but basically, all cake

bakers and cake eaters are

welcome to come along and, for

a small fee, eat cake and chat to

friends and relatives.”

Alongside the cake competition,

the event also featured a raffle

and a craft stall, contributing to

fundraising efforts.

Explaining the importance of

the event, Sheila added:

“CakeFest and the generosity of

those who come along means

that Friends of Seaton Park can

continue to support small

projects in the park, help out

with gardening work and litter

picking, and generally nag the

Council to ‘do things’.”

This year’s event benefited

from good weather, allowing

some attendees to spend time

outdoors as well as inside the

hall. A total of 33 cakes were

entered, all judged

anonymously by those

attending.

Sheila said: “For CakeFest 10 we

were blessed with the weather

which meant that some of the

150 or so people who came

along could sit outside and eat

cake.

A total of 33 cakes were

contributed, admired, eaten

and judged by everyone who

attended. The cakes are judged

blind with only a number and

title to identify them. We

welcome all ages and talents.”

The standard of entries was

high, with Ruaridh taking first

place for his “Squirrel Nutkins

Layered Mess Cake.” Second

place went to Aly with a

“Humming Bird Bundt Cake,”

and third place was awarded to

Jill for her “Owl Tree Stump

Cake.”

Sheila added: “Congratulations

to everyone who baked a cake

and came along. We look

forward to seeing you again

next year.”

Cakefest 2026 Winner Ruaridh with Sheila

Gordon, Chair of Friends of Seaton Park



Scarf unveils tartan

wrapped vehicles

to mark 40 years of

support for households

across the country

S

cottish charity and social

enterprise Scarf marks 40

years of supporting households

with a pair of eye-catching tartanwrapped

vehicles, now on the

streets of Aberdeen and Dundee.

The cars are wrapped in Scarf's

bespoke 40th anniversary tartan

– officially registered with the

Scottish Register of Tartans

earlier this year – and will be a

visible reminder to communities

across both cities that free,

impartial energy advice and

support is closer than they

might think.

Lawrence Johnston, Co-CEO at

Scarf, said: "Reaching our 40th

year is a huge milestone for

everyone at Scarf. Over the

decades, we’ve supported

hundreds of thousands of

households with free, impartial

energy advice and helped

people access the funding they

need to stay warm.

These vehicles make it easier for

people to find us and get

support when they need it. We

want people to recognise us in

their communities and feel

confident reaching out for

support. Whether it’s guidance

on energy bills, accessing

grants, or making homes more

energy efficient, we’re here to

help.”

The cars will be seen travelling

across Aberdeen and Dundee

in the coming weeks, as Scarf

continues to deliver support

directly to households who

need it most.

Scarf is a registered charity and

social enterprise, founded in

1985, providing free, impartial

energy advice across Scotland.

Partnering with government,

housing providers, charities

and the private sector, Scarf

tackles fuel poverty, improves

energy efficiency and helps

households access funding and

retrofit solutions that cut bills

and carbon emissions, with all

profits reinvested for lasting

social and environmental

impact.

To find out more about Scarf,

visit www.scarf.org.uk



Public feedback helps shape Aberdeen

health and social care budget plans

People across Aberdeen have been

helping to shape the future of local health

and social care services, following a period

of public engagement led by Aberdeen

City Health & Social Care Partnership.

Between 17 November

and 14 December 2025,

the Partnership asked residents,

service users and carers to share

their views on 13 proposed

savings options as part of its

planning for 2026–27. The aim

was to understand how

potential changes might affect

people across the city, while

identifying ways to meet a

required £14.5 million saving.

A range of opportunities were

created for people to take part.

Alongside an online survey, ten

in person events were held in

communities across Aberdeen,

with additional sessions

designed to support inclusive

participation, including

engagement for British Sign

Language users. This approach

created space not only for

responses to be recorded, but for

wider conversations about how

services are used and valued in

everyday life.

The feedback gathered offers a

detailed picture of how

different proposals were

viewed across the city.

Some options were seen as

having a more limited impact.

Changes relating to the

Middlefield Hub (12% of

respondents identifying a high

negative impact), Foresterhill

Health Centre (14%), and

transport to and from Horizons

services (16%) were among

those where lower levels of

concern were recorded, with

plans focusing on relocating

services or identifying

alternative ways of delivering

support.

Elsewhere, responses reflected

a more mixed picture. Around

30% of respondents

highlighted a high negative

impact for proposals linked to

care home provision and the

review of commissioned

services. In these areas,

feedback often pointed to the

importance of maintaining

access to care while recognising

a growing shift towards

supporting more people at

home.

The strongest responses were

seen in relation to proposals

affecting adult social care

eligibility and support for

unpaid carers. In both cases,

41% of respondents indicated a

high negative impact.

Feedback emphasised the

importance of early support

and the vital role played by

unpaid carers across Aberdeen.

These views were reflected in

the final decisions, with both

proposals not taken forward.

All feedback was considered by

the Integration Joint Board,

which is responsible for

planning and overseeing

health and social care services

in Aberdeen. Alongside the

financial context, the Board

reviewed the level of public

concern associated with each

option, helping to ensure that

community insight formed

part of the overall decision

making process.

In addition to the survey

findings, in person discussions

added valuable depth, helping

to explain the experiences

behind the figures and

highlighting the issues that

matter most to people.

Together, this has contributed

to a more rounded

understanding of local

priorities and the role services

play in supporting wellbeing

across the city.

Further insight into the process

is available through an online

interview with IJB Chair

Hussein Patwa, who shares

more about the background to

the savings options and the

importance of public feedback

in shaping the outcome.

“There is no doubt that the

work ahead of us to make the

necessary savings will be

challenging and require the

combined efforts of us all,” he

said. “But the professionalism

and commitment of our staff

will ensure that we continue to

provide the best possible care

for those who depend upon us.

Together, and with the full

support of the IJB, we will

make health and social care

provision in Aberdeen

sustainable into the future.”

A full breakdown of the

consultation findings can be

found on the AHSCP website



Aberdeen City Mental

Health Action Plan to be

launched in May 2026

ental health and

M wellbeing matter to

everyone. It shapes how we feel,

how we cope with everyday life,

how we relate to others and how

we take part in our

communities. Good mental

wellbeing supports learning,

work, relationships, caring and

enjoyment of life, while poor

mental health can affect health,

education, employment and life

chances.

The Aberdeen City Population

Mental Health Action Plan will

be launched on 11th May 2026,

during Mental Health

Awareness Week, and sets out

how partners will work together

to strengthen mental wellbeing

and prevent mental health

conditions across the whole city.

It focuses on creating the

conditions for good mental

health, not only on responding

when people are already

experiencing difficulties.

The plan recognises that mental

health is shaped by more than

health services alone. Where

people live, grow up, learn, work

and age all influence mental

wellbeing. Families,

communities, schools,

workplaces, housing, income,

safety and social connection

connection play a central role.

Improving population mental

health therefore requires a

whole city approach.

Suzanne Thomson Health

Improvement Officer for

Aberdeen Health and Social

Care Partnership said “In

creating the plan, we have

worked with our wonderful

colleagues across the City

(public and third sector), to gain

an understanding of the

services already on offer, learn

about the gaps and identify

opportunities for working

together. The plan forms part

of a longer-term programme of

work to improve population

mental health in Aberdeen.

While the action plan focuses

on priorities and activity for

2026–2027, it sits within a wider

multi‐year programme.”

Keep an eye on the Aberdeen

City Health and Social Care

Partnership socials this month

for the launch of the plan, and

an update in this ACVO News

next month!

Facebook – Aberdeen City

Health and Social Care

Partnership

X – @HSCAberdeen

Instagram -

@aberdeen_city_hscp

Let's Make May

Purple this Stroke

Awareness Month

This May, the Stroke Association is encouraging

people across Scotland to take part in Stroke

Awareness Month by helping to “Make May

Purple.” The campaign aims to raise awareness

of the impact of stroke and highlight the

importance of support for those affected.

Each year, more than

10,000 people in

Scotland have a stroke, and

around 150,000 are living with

its effects. Stroke is something

that touches many lives, with

around half of Scottish adults

having a personal connection,

either directly or through family

and friends.

There are a number of simple

ways to get involved. The Stroke

Association provides a range of

downloadable resources to help

individuals, workplaces, and

community groups take part.

These include an information

booklet with guidance on

planning a Make May Purple

event, posters to show support,

and social media images to

share using the hashtag

#StrokeAwarenessMonth.

The Stroke Association is

Scotland’s leading strokespecific

charity, offering lifelong

support to stroke survivors and

their families. Their work helps

people rebuild their lives after

stroke and ensures they are not

facing recovery alone.

For those who want to do more,

fundraising is an important part

of the campaign. People are

encouraged to take part in

activities such as baking,

walking, hosting events, or

raising awareness in creative

ways. Every contribution helps

fund vital services and support

for stroke survivors. Taking part

in Make May Purple is a

straightforward way to raise

awareness and support an

important cause. Find out more

via Stroke Association website



Befriend a Child Partners

with Local Charities and Event

Organisers for an Exciting Line

Up of 2026 Sponsored Events

Befriend a Child, a leading

children’s charity

dedicated to supporting local

children and young people living

in difficult life circumstances, is

delighted to announce its line-up

of sponsored challenge events for

2026, delivered in partnership

with a range of fantastic local

charities and event organisers.

These events offer an exciting

opportunity for individuals,

families, corporate teams and

community groups to take on an

inspiring challenge, push

personal limits and make an

incredible difference to the lives

of children and young people

supported by Befriend a Child.

Through these valued

partnerships, participants can

raise life-changing funds while

being part of a wider

community effort to support

local young people across

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Befriend a Child recognises the

power of connection and the

positive impact of working

together towards a shared goal.

For businesses, these events

provide the perfect opportunity

to bring colleagues together

outside of the workplace,

strengthen relationships and

boost morale, all while

supporting a meaningful cause.

Whether it’s taking on a physical

challenge or committing to a

fundraising target as a team,

these experiences create lasting

memories and a real sense of

achievement.

Whether you’re an experienced

adventurer, a supporter

looking for a new goal, or part

of a workplace team seeking a

unique team-building

opportunity, Befriend a Child’s

2026 challenge programme has

something for everyone.

From outdoor expeditions to

community fundraising

activities including The Beast

Race, AFCCT’s Big Red 50 Day

5K Challenge, and Chest Heart

& Stroke Scotland’s Forth

Bridge Abseil, these events

bring people together in

support of a shared cause,

helping to create brighter

futures for children and young

people.

Jenna Simpson, Senior

Fundraising Coordinator at

Befriend a Child, said: “We’re

incredibly excited to be

working alongside a range of

fantastic local charities and

event organisers to bring these

sponsored challenges to our

supporters. These partnerships

allow us to offer a diverse and

inspiring programme of events,

while giving individuals and

corporate teams the

opportunity to raise lifechanging

funds for the

children and young people we

support.

“Every step, every mile and

every effort helps us deliver

crucial support and friendship

to those who need it most, and

we hope people of all ages,

abilities and workplaces will

feel inspired to get involved.”

Participants can register, learn

more about the challenges and

find ways to fundraise by

visiting the Befriend a Child

Sponsored Events page here:

befriendachild.org.uk/sponsor

ed-events/.

Whether you’re keen to test

your limits, strengthen your

team, meet new people or

contribute to a meaningful

cause, now is the perfect time

to get involved.



Aberdeen Charity

All Life Chances

Strengthens Board

With Appointment

Of Kristen Rossvoll

Kristen Rossvoll who has recently joined

the All Life Chances board of trustees

Aberdeen-based charity All Life Chances has

appointed experienced banking professional

Kristen Rossvoll to its board of trustees, further

strengthening its leadership as it continues to

expand its impact across the city.

s Rossvoll brings more

M than 25 years’ experience

in banking and commercial

finance, having held senior roles

at major financial institutions

including Lloyds Banking

Group, Santander UK, DNB and

Clydesdale Bank, where she

advised mid-market and large

corporate clients across

Scotland and the UK on

funding, growth strategy and

investment.

She now leads Rossvoll

Advisory, providing strategic

guidance to growing

businesses and investors, and

holds a number of board and

David Rennie, Chair of All Life Chances

with Kristen Rossvoll

advisory roles across the northeast

of Scotland. She is

particularly passionate about

supporting entrepreneurial

businesses and strengthening

regional economies.

Alongside her commercial

career, Ms Rossvoll has

demonstrated a strong

commitment to community

and governance, having

previously served as a board

member of Camphill School

Aberdeen.

She is dedicated to helping

children and young people

reach their full potential and

will contribute strategic,

financial and governance

expertise to support All Life

Chances’ mission.

All Life Chances works to

improve outcomes for children

and young people in Aberdeen,

particularly in communities

facing high levels of

deprivation. The charity

partners with schools,

community centres and local

organisations, bringing

together the private, public and

third sectors to build stronger

communities.

“David Rennie, Chair of All Life

Chances, said: “We are

delighted to welcome Kristen

to our board of trustees. Her

extensive experience in

finance, strategy and

governance will be invaluable

as we continue to grow our

impact across Aberdeen.

Her commitment to

supporting young people aligns

strongly with our values, and

we look forward to working

together to drive meaningful

change.”

Ms Rossvoll said: “Joining the

All Life Chances board is a

privilege. The organisation

plays a vital role in supporting

young people across Aberdeen,

and I look forward to

contributing my experience to

help strengthen its impact.

“Creating opportunities for

young people to thrive is

something I care deeply about,

and I am committed to

supporting the charity’s

continued growth and

success.”

More information about All

Life Chances can be found at

www.alllifechances.org



The Pearl Earring Copyists’ Exhibition

Opens at the University of Aberdeen

An exhibition of contemporary reinterpretations of Johannes Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl

Earring, developed in collaboration with the Polish Association Aberdeen, will be on view

from 29 May to 12 June 2026, showcasing works created through a series of interdisciplinary

workshops exploring art, literature, and personal creative transformation.

F

th

th

rom May 29 to June 12

2026 the University

of Aberdeen’s Sir Duncan Rice

Library will host the exhibition

“Pearl Earrings Copyists’

Exhibition”, presenting works

created within the Kierunek

Literatura project. The initiative,

led by Marta Surowiec, has been

developed since 2023 in

collaboration with the Polish

Association Aberdeen, which

supports the Polish community

in the city, fosters international

integration, and promotes

Polish culture in Scotland.

Kierunek Literatura is an

interdisciplinary cultural

platform that functions as a

contemporary book club,

expanded through artistic and

educational practice. Delivered

in cooperation with the Polish

Association Aberdeen library,

the programme includes

lectures, talks, and thematic

workshops promoting

knowledge of literature, culture,

and the visual arts.

Within one of its modules,

participants took part in

workshops dedicated to the

practice of copying paintings.

The point of reference was one

of Johannes Vermeer’s most

recognisable works, Girl with a

Pearl Earring. The process

involved exploring the historical

context, the artist’s biography,

and fundamental technical

aspects of painting

reproduction.

Commenting on the project,

Marta Surowiec said “Working

on the copies was a demanding

and multi-stage process. The

workshop participants,

drawing on knowledge of

Johannes Vermeer’s life, his

methods of working, and the

context of ‘Girl with a Pearl

Earring’, gradually developed

their own interpretations ofthe

model. This process was often

associated with overcoming

personal limitations and an

inner transformation taking

place through direct

engagement with the artwork.

From initial uncertainty,

through a stage of

concentration, to a final,

satisfying outcome, it became

an experience that allowed

participants to recognise and

develop their own creative

potential. As a result, each copy

reflects an individual

interpretation of Vermeer’s

painting, shaped by personal

experience and perception,

giving the exhibition a diverse

and almost intimate character.”

The main partner of the project

is the University of Aberdeen,

which has made the Sir

Duncan Rice Library available

as the exhibition venue. The

building, with its distinctive

cubic form and characteristic

glass façade, is one of the most

recognisable contemporary

academic spaces in Scotland.

Marta Surowiec continued,

“We are very pleased with the

exhibition venue – it is a truly

exceptional interior, not only

because of its modernist

character, but also due to the

atmosphere it creates.

It is difficult to imagine a better

setting for a contemporary

interpretation of a classical

work of art.”

Mateusz Łagoda, President of

the Polish Association

Aberdeen, added “This

experience demonstrates the

value of genuine exchange

between institutions – the

Polish and Scottish libraries –

which together create a shared

space for culture, education,

and dialogue. Such projects

build lasting bridges between

communities.”



Touch of Love Outreach

delivers free Holiday Club

supporting over 60 young

people across Aberdeen

T

ouch of Love Outreach

delivered its 2026

Holiday Club, supporting more

than 60 young people across

Aberdeen, particularly in Torry,

Kincorth, and Cove, during the

school holidays. The free

programme brought together

creativity, physical activity, and

learning, with a clear aim of

ensuring that all young people

could access enriching

experiences regardless of their

circumstances.

Delivered with the support of

volunteers and partners,

including Youth Scotland and

local collaborator Julia Black, the

three-day programme offered a

wide range of structured activities

tailored to different age groups.

Children under eight took part in

arts and crafts, outdoor play, and

cake decorating, while those

aged 8 to 15 engaged in creative

workshops and group activities.

Young people aged 16 and over

were supported through a

dedicated study space,

recognising the importance of

providing a focused

environment for those preparing

for exams.

Across the programme,

participants explored a variety of

activities including badgemaking,

tote bag design using

stencils, tie-dye, drumming,

football, and interactive games.

Creative sessions were a central

feature, with many young people

taking pride in producing their

own designs and trying new

techniques.

Workshops led by Youth

Scotland representatives Laura

and Elspeth introduced special

effects and glitter make-up,

offering a new and engaging

experience that encouraged

creativity and self-expression.

The Holiday Club was designed

not only to provide

entertainment, but to support

confidence-building and social

development. Feedback from

participants reflected strong

engagement, with many

highlighting the opportunity to

try something new, make

friends, and express themselves

in a supportive setting.

Organisers observed that young

people became more confident

over the course of the

programme, with some initially

reserved participants growing in

confidence and actively

contributing to group activities.

The programme was offered free

of charge, helping to reduce

financial barriers for families

during the school holidays and

enabling wider participation.

This inclusive approach ensured

that more young people could

benefit from the activities and

support on offer.

Dr Jane Akadiri, Founder of

Touch of Love Outreach,

reflected on the impact of the

programme: “What we see in

programmes like this is the

transformation that happens

when young people are given

the right environment. They

begin to believe in themselves,

try new things, and build

connections that strengthen

their sense of belonging. These

moments shape confidence,

direction, and future

possibilities.”

The 2026 Holiday Club was

made possible through the

commitment of volunteers,

staff, and community partners,

The initiative highlights the

importance of creating safe,

inclusive spaces where young

people can connect and develop

skills that support their future.


ACVO News Features

A Milestone

for MindLink:

Building Accessible Mental

Health Support in Aberdeen

F

or MindLink Multicultural

Counselling & Psychological

Services, submitting its first

annual return to the Scottish Charity

Regulator is more than a formal

requirement. It marks a significant step

in the organisation’s development and a

moment to reflect on how far it has

come.

“We have just submitted our first report

to OSCR,” says Dr. Magda Diaz, the

charity’s Clinical Lead and current Chair.

“It feels like a real milestone - it shows we

are moving forward.”

That sense of steady progress is shared

by Operations Manager Magdalena

Mikołajewska, who laughs as she

describes the reality of running a small

charity. “Sometimes I wake up and I

completely forget that we are running an

organisation,” she says. “Then I open my

email… and I realise that it’s all

happening.”

Based in Aberdeen, MindLink provides

counselling and mental health support

to people who may otherwise struggle to

access it, particularly those facing

barriers such as language, cost or wider

experiences of marginalisation. Its core

service is one to one therapy for people

aged 16 and over, delivered both online

and in person, alongside group sessions

and wellbeing activities.

The organisation offers counselling in

multiple languages, including Polish,

Ukrainian, Russian and Mandarin, as

well as English, allowing people to

access support in the language and

cultural context they feel most

comfortable in.

What began as a small, community led

project has grown into a multi-language

service supporting individuals across

different backgrounds and experiences.

From a community project to a

registered charity

MindLink’s origins lie in earlier

voluntary work through the Polish

Association in Aberdeen, where both

Magda and Magdalena were involved in

delivering a psychology service. When

that service came to an end, the level of

need made it clear that something more

permanent was required.



ACVO News Features

ACVO News Features

“We didn’t expect how overwhelming it

would be,” says Magdalena. “People were

asking for help on a daily basis.”

The result was MindLink, a grassroots

organisation shaped directly by the needs

they were seeing in the community. From

the outset, the focus was on creating a

service that people could access easily and

feel comfortable using, particularly those

who had struggled to find support

elsewhere.

“From the beginning, we wanted to make

sure the service was professional, ethical,

accessible and transparent in how it

works” Magda explains. That focus

continues to shape how the charity

operates today, with an emphasis on

accessibility, flexibility and meeting

people where they are.

Early support and building

confidence

Alongside counselling, MindLink has

developed group-based support to help

people engage with their mental health

earlier. This includes the MindLink Café, a

monthly session designed as a more

informal introduction to mental health

support, supported through the Scottish

Government’s Communities Mental

Health and Wellbeing Fund for Adults,

distributed locally by ACVO.

“It’s an early support space, before formal

therapy,” Magda explains.

For Magdalena, this is about addressing a

common barrier. “People often wait a long

time before they look for help,” she says.

“They think they should manage it on

their own… or they worry about what it

says about them.”

Addressing barriers and minority

stress

A key part of MindLink’s work is

supporting people who may feel excluded

from traditional mental health services.

“There are many reasons why people don’t

feel that the main routes into mental

health support are for them,” Magda says.

“Sometimes it’s about language,

sometimes finances, and more generally

about experiences of marginalisation or

minority stress.”

Providing support in someone’s preferred

language is important, but it is not the

only factor. “It’s about shared cultural

understanding… the memories, the

references, the ways people make sense

of their experiences. All MindLink

counsellors are sensitive to issues of

oppression, and the structural barriers

people may face when accessing mental

health support,” Magda explains.

To reflect this, MindLink’s therapists

work in a person-centred, integrative

way, adapting their approach to each

individual. “MindLink counsellors offer

different evidence-based therapeutic

approaches,” Magda says. “Their work is

guided by each client’s needs and

preferences.” This may include working

in the client’s preferred language,

adapting or translating materials, and,

where appropriate, drawing on cultural

resources - such as creative forms of

expression - to support understanding

and engagement.”

Impact: one person at a time

Although MindLink remains a small

organisation, the impact of its work is

already being felt.

“We support one person at a time,” Magda

says. “But that change doesn’t stay with

one person - it extends to their family,

their relationships, the people around

them in general.” She describes seeing

clients reach a point where things that

once felt unmanageable begin to shift.

“Something that once was unimaginable

suddenly becomes possible.”

Magdalena sees that impact in the

feedback they receive. “People come

back,” she says. “They say they feel safe,

and that they’ve gained a lot from the

support.” In some cases, clients return for

further support at a later stage or

recommend the service to others. “People

are referring each other,” Magdalena

says.

The charity delivers workshops that

combine psychoeducation with

opportunities for connection, particularly

for people who may feel isolated. “They

create space for people to meet, talk and

build relationships,” Magdalena says. The

first year’s workshops were supported by

the Ethnic Minority Development Fund

(EMDF), part of the National Lottery

Community Fund.

MindLink has also begun extending its

work into community settings, reaching

people less likely to access mental health

support. This included a recent wellbeing

session at a construction site, because

“working-age men often struggle with

accessing mental health support,” Magda

explains.

Looking ahead

As MindLink moves into its second year

as a registered charity, the focus is on

building connections and increasing

visibility.

“We would like to connect more with

other organisations,” Magda says, “so that

other organisations are aware of our work

and can collaborate with us through

signposting and joint initiatives.”

Reaching more people is also a priority.

“We want to make sure that more

communities know that we are here,”

Magdalena adds.

There are also practical challenges to

address. “While group activities can take

place in community settings, counselling

requires a consistent, private, and

comfortable environment,” Magda

explains. “So far, this has been made

possible through support from the EMDF.

Maintaining a consistent space depends

on continued funding.”

Despite this, the organisation is clear

about its direction. “We build things step

by step,” Magdalena says. “At our own

pace, but in a way we can be proud of.”

With its first year as a registered charity

complete, MindLink is focused on

continuing to grow its reach, strengthen

partnerships and make its support more

visible to the communities it aims to

serve.

To find out more about the work of

MindLink, you can visit them online at

www.mindlinkpsych.org or email the

team via triage@mindlinkpsych.org.


Professional, confidential mental health

support, delivered with understanding of

language and culture.

Therapists for Polish and other minority groups,

offering individual therapy online for adults across

Scotland, and in-person in Aberdeen.

www.mindlinkpsych.org

Volunteer Aberdeen

Why I volunteer

in Aberdeen

with Instant Neighbour

Volunteers are at the heart of Instant Neighbour - from helping in the

food bank, sorting donations or being part of the admin team, each

one is vital in supporting the charity’s operations. As part of our Why I

Volunteer in Aberdeen series, we spoke to Ken and Kimberley to hear

about their inspirations behind volunteering, their experience within

the organisation and the value they find in giving back their time.

Volunteer

Aberdeen


Volunteer Aberdeen

In Aberdeen, community organisations play a vital role in

supporting those who need it most. Among them, Instant

Neighbour has become a lifeline for many - providing food support,

household goods and essential services to vulnerable people across

the city.

As a local charity, Instant Neighbour relies heavily on the dedication

of its team of volunteers. From sorting donations and preparing food

parcels, to answering phone calls and organising deliveries,

volunteers are at the heart of everything the organisation does.

Without their time and commitment, many of these services simply

wouldn’t be possible.

Speaking with two of their volunteers, Ken and Kimberley share

what brought them to Instant Neighbour, what they do day-to-day

and the difference volunteering has made in their lives.

Ken

Charities rely heavily on

volunteers so it’s nice to

know that you’re giving

something back.

Ken has been volunteering at Instant Neighbour’s food bank for

around 18 months, where he describes his role as varied and handson.

“One minute you can be handling deliveries and donations, the next

you’re stocking shelves or putting together food parcels,” he

explains.

After taking voluntary redundancy in 2020 and experiencing some

health issues, Ken found himself feeling increasingly isolated.

Volunteering became the perfect opportunity to connect with

people again.

Since joining, Ken describes his experience as incredibly positive:

“It’s the people that make Instant Neighbour. The staff and

volunteers are a lovely bunch.”

For Ken, volunteering has also helped improve his mental

wellbeing, as he says: “My mental health had deteriorated a wee bit

and I just needed to get back out into the world again. Volunteering

has really helped with this - it’s been a hugely positive experience for

me personally.”

Highlighting the wider importance, Ken concludes by saying:

“Charities rely heavily on volunteers so it’s nice to know that you’re

giving something back. My time here so far has been great and I

hope to continue volunteering.”


Volunteer

Aberdeen

Volunteer Aberdeen

Kimberley

Kimberley volunteers a couple of afternoons each week as an

admin volunteer, supporting the organisation behind the scenes.

“I mainly answer the phones - booking deliveries, arranging

donation pick-ups and dealing with any general queries,” she says.

After taking a career break to raise her son, Kimberley started

thinking about returning to work but found the idea quite daunting.

“Being a stay-at-home mum for almost five years, you lose a bit of

confidence in the real world. You forget what a work environment is

like,” she explains. “Volunteering was the confidence boost that I

needed and reminded me what I am capable of.”

Volunteering was the

confidence boost that I

needed and reminded

me what I am capable of.

Kimberley also found the role eye-opening in terms of the charity’s

impact: “I didn’t realise how much Instant Neighbour does locally.

It’s really good being a part of something meaningful and giving

back my time through volunteering.”

She describes her experience as both fulfilling and rewarding,

encouraging others to give it a go too: “I’m so glad that I came to

volunteer at Instant Neighbour. It’s a really good stepping stone

back into work, has helped me rediscover skills and reminded me

what I can achieve - I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Get Involved

Instant Neighbour continues to play a crucial role in supporting

individuals and families across Aberdeen. While donations and

funding are essential, the team of volunteers greatly support the

day-today running of the organisation - offering practical help,

compassion and a sense of community.

Whether supporting the food bank, helping out with administration

or working in the charity shop, volunteers make a huge difference to

people’s lives whilst also gaining valuable experience and

connection.

If you’re considering volunteering, Instant Neighbour offers a wide

variety of roles to get involved with - find out more on their website

at www.instantneighbour.co.uk

Scottish Charity No: SC002223

Volunteer

Aberdeen

Volunteer

Aberdeen


Volunteer Aberdeen

Volunteer and

make a difference

in Aberdeen!

Join in and find out more at

volunteeraberdeen.org.uk

Volunteer

Aberdeen


Volunteer

Aberdeen

Funding

Action Earth

2026 Grants

are now available

olunteering Matters

V Action Earth has small

grants of up to £250 for

volunteer groups across

Scotland in urban areas or near

population centres who are

boosting biodiversity through

planting and habitat builds.

This could include creating or

improving community gardens,

shared greenspaces, wildflower

meadows, local ponds,

community woodlands and

other wildlife homes.

The organisation is keen to

receive applications from any

group and will prioritise

applications from volunteer

groups of 20 or more who:

• Work in areas where there is

substantial social and/or

economic deprivation

• Improve and develop the

health and wellbeing of their

local community

• Involve people with

disabilities or defined health

issues and those at risk of

exclusion

• Make major environmental

impacts and/or involve mass

participation.

For full details, links to useful

resources and to make an

application please visit:

volunteeringmatters.org.uk/

project/action-earth

Young people raise more than

£3,000 for North East Sensory

Services on sponsored walk

Young walkers raised more than £3,000 for

North East Sensory Services (NESS)

through a sponsored walk in Aberdeen.

he spring walk at

Hazelhead Park on

TApril 12 raised £3,174

for North East Sensory Services.

Those taking part are all

members of the charity’s Young

People’s Sensory Service (YPSS)

which all the money raised will

go towards.

The YPSS provides vital

opportunities, activities and

support for children and young

people who are deaf, hard of

hearing, blind or partially

sighted across the north-east of

Scotland.

It is one of several services

offered by NESS, which

supports people with sight and

hearing loss and helps them live

as independently as possible.

Participants completed a 5km

walk around the golf course,

joined by family members and

volunteers.

The event also featured an

Easter-themed trail, a visit from

the Easter bunny using British

Sign Language (BSL) and goody

bags for those taking part,

creating a fun and inclusive day

for everyone involved.

Events such as this play an

important role in helping young

people build confidence,

develop friendships and feel

more connected within their

communities.

NESS thanked local supporters,

including Asda Middleton Park

for donating Easter treats and

Doorsteps Catering for

providing sandwiches for young

people and families on the day.

Emma Welsh, community

partnerships coordinator at

NESS, said: “Days like this mean

so much to the young people we

support. Seeing their confidence

grow, friendships form and

smiles throughout the day really

highlights the importance of

creating inclusive opportunities

where everyone feels they

belong.

“The funds raised will make a

real difference in helping us

continue to provide opportunities

and support for the

young people we work with.”


Funding

The Triangle Trust 1949 Fund

The Triangle Trust

The Triangle Trust 1949 Fund funding round is now open. Our first opportunity

will focus on supporting work with girls aged 11-18 who are either already in

contact with the criminal justice system or at high risk of involvement.

We will only be funding work focused on girls linked to involvement in gangs,

county lines, those outside of education (or at risk of being) and those who are

care experienced. Funding for work with young women aged 17-30 will be

available in the autumn.

We run two grant rounds each year. This year our focus is on young women and

girls who have been in the criminal justice system or who are at a high risk of

entering it.

Grant Size

Grants of up to £100,000 for a duration of 18, 24, 30 or 36 months. The amount

of funding requested must be proportional to the project being undertaken. A

maximum of £50,000 per year can be requested.

Children &

Young People

Funding Available:

up to £100,000

Find out more at acvo.org.uk/opportunities/funding

Applications close:

20th May 2026

Barclays Community Sport Fund

Barclays / Sported

Sport opens doors to skills that last a lifetime. That’s why Barclays is giving

grants to community sports groups who need it most.

The Barclays Community Sport Fund, delivered in partnership with Sported,

helps to reduce inequalities in sport – with a focus on football, tennis, and

cricket.

The fund supports community groups and grassroots sports organisations who

are working within the most deprived areas of the UK and are making sport

more accessible to women and girls, as well as engaging people from other

underrepresented groups including people with disabilities, from racially diverse

communities and from the LGBTQ+ community.

Sport & Fitness

Funding Available:

up to £1000

Applications close:

27th May 2026

The programme will support thousands of community groups across the UK

with a total investment of £1.4million a year over three years.

The Barclays Community Sport Fund is open for applications until Wednesday

27th May 2026.

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


Events

Events

Events in May

6th

6th

9th

Tenants And Residents Forum

This is the group for tenants and residents

who want to be more involved in the

housing service.

It is where tenants, residents and the

Council work together to ensure effective

and meaningful consultation and

communication takes place.

Members of this group gain an

understanding of Council policies and

procedures. It is also a way for members to

meet other tenants and residents from all

over the city to discuss any housing issues

and share good news stories with each

other.

Monthly Book Club

Join fellow book lovers for an engaging

discussion on our latest read.

Share your thoughts, favourite moments, and

insights while enjoying light refreshments and

great company.

Whether you’ve finished the book or are just

starting, everyone is welcome to join the

conversation and connect over a shared love

of reading.

Climate Action for Torry

Join a welcoming community event to explore

what climate change means for you and your

future.

Connect with people from Torry and across

the North-East, including local community

groups, environmental organisations, and

energy advice services.

Share your thoughts, discover practical steps

to take positive action, and find support

through networks offering guidance, projects,

and opportunities to get involved.

Date Wed 6 May 2026

Date Wed 6 May 2026

Date Sat 9 May 2026

Time

2:00pm - 4:00pm

Time

5:45pm - 6:45pm

Time

11:00am - 3:00pm

Cost

Free

Cost

Free

Cost

Free

Organiser

Aberdeen Tenants &

Residents Partnership

Organiser

Greyhope Hub

Organiser

Aberdeen Climate Action

Venue

Aberdeen Town House,

Broad Street, AB10 1AQ

Venue

Greyhope Community Hub,

Tullos Circle, Aberdeen,

AB11 8HD

Venue

Old Torry Community

Centre, 2 Abbey Place,

Aberdeen, AB11 9QH

Find out more via ACVO Events




Events

Community Buildings Fund:

Renewable Energy Projects

through CARES

Join us for a collaborative workshop with

Community Energy Launchpad designed to

help local not-for-profit organisations take the

next step toward energy-efficient, low-carbon

community-owned or -leased buildings.

Whether you’re new to sustainability or

looking to boost your project, this event is a

great opportunity to learn what works, ask

questions, and get support for the first steps of

your project.

We’ll cover the fundamentals of technologies

like heat pumps and solar panels and potential

routes to funding, and you’ll hear directly from

groups who have already delivered successful

CARES-funded upgrades.

ACVO Training: Duties and

Responsibilities of Scottish

Charity Trustees

If you want to find out more about the duties

and responsibilities of Scottish Charity

Trustees then this is the session for you.

A 2 hour online session led by ACVO

Development Officer Sandy Mathers designed

to make you more confident as a charity

trustee. Whether you are a Trustee or thinking

about becoming one, you will find this helpful.

The training also reflects on the changes in

charity law brought in by the commencement

of the Charities (Regulation and

Administration) (Scotland) Act 2023, such as

extension of automatic disqualification criteria,

registration of trustees and publication of

accounts.

Walk to Give Her a Voice

Let's join together for a walk to support and

empower women to have their voices heard

loud and clear!

Every step in Walk to Give Her a Voice is more

than a walk. It is a step towards breaking the

silence around menstrual health.

Your fundraising will help us deliver meaningful

menstrual health education and advocacy

through:

Menstrual health workshops in schools

Community health events and safe spaces

for open conversation

Fibroids and reproductive health

awareness sessions

Mother and daughter education sessions

Programmes that build girls’ confidence,

body literacy and wellbeing

Date Mon 11 May 2026

Date Thu 14 May 2026

Dates Sat 23 May 2026

Time

6:30pm - 8:00pm

Time

2:00pm - 4:00pm

Times

10:30am - 12:30pm

Cost

Free

Cost £10

Cost

Free

Organiser

Community Energy Scotland

Organiser

ACVO TSI

Organiser

The Period Place

Venue

Online

Venue

Online

Venue

Aberdeen Beach Ballroom,

Beach Promenade,

Aberdeen, AB24 5NR




11th

14th

23rd

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

Benefit Advisor

Aberdeen Action On Disability

£13.80 - £15.50 per hour Part Time

12 hours minimum Fixed Term

Aberdeen Closing date: 01/05/2026 Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies

We have an exciting opportunity for a successful candidate to provide benefits and income maximisation advice and

support to our clients across Aberdeen City. This ranges from undertaking benefit checks, support to apply for benefits

and also support to request a revision or change of circumstances as appropriate.

The role also involves assessing the client’s situation, dealing promptly with any updates or changes, and liaising with benefit

agencies and external organisations to support the client as much as possible. The role also involves ensuring that the client’s

details are fully captured and that all statistical data is captured for funding purposes.

This will be an office based role, however the ability to travel around Aberdeen for possible home visits in the community will

be required where needed. This post is funded by The National Lottery.

Information and application available on request by calling 01224 641355 or emailing office@aad-online.com

Download Job Advert

Download Job Description

Lead Club & Community Sport

Co-ordinator

Sport Aberdeen

£37,845 Full Time 37 hours Fixed Term Aberdeen

Closing date: 07/05/2026

Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies

As a result of additional investment provided by sportscotland, Sport Aberdeen are looking to expand our Community

Sport Team by recruiting a Lead Club & Community Sport Co-ordinator. This position provides a fantastic opportunity to

continue building the Community Sport Hubs (CSH) programme, while also developing wider projects that support

stronger, safer sustainable and inclusive sports clubs and community organisations within Aberdeen City.

With a reputation for delivering targeted projects that address community needs and help build diversity and capacity, this

post will work as part of a small team tasked with expanding existing provision and developing new projects across the city

hubs and club’s network. We’re looking for a real people person (with proven project management experience), who can build

and maintain positive relationships with those involved in clubs, hubs and community groups (and other key partners) and has

a strong track record in recruiting and supporting volunteers.

Developing an ethos and opportunities around equality, diversity and inclusion will be a huge part of this role. So, we need

someone that understands this, how sport and physical activity can be used to positively meet community need and goes the

extra mile to make sure that we are making a difference.

How to Apply

You can find the full job description and person specification, along with the application form, on the Sport Aberdeen website

The closing date for applications is Thursday 7th May at 12pm noon.


Vacancies

Communities Development Coach

Aberdeen Foyer

£24,964 - £28,376 Full Time

36.25 hours

Permanent

Aberdeen Closing date: 04/05/2026 Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies

For this role, you will support people of all working ages in their local communities to find solutions using engaging

activities, including accredited learning. Through this, you will help people to increase confidence, learn new skills, and

gain qualifications to enable them to progress to into education, training, and employment.

Key Competencies

Build meaningful relationships with clients based on honesty, compassion, and trust

Empower, encourage, and inspire clients, enabling them to gain confidence and self-awareness using a strengths-based

approach and tools such as accredited learning

Ability to actively listen and communicate respectfully and appropriately with clients and others involved in their lives

Ability to develop personal action plans with clients to aid ownership of their own development and progression

Negotiate for the resources and funding required to achieve successful outcomes for clients, and provide budgeting and

administrative information

Seek out external support services where necessary to further support any additional barriers clients may have

Ability to regularly and accurately update, record and monitor data and client’s progress to ensure administration of

evidence required for accredited learning

Contribute to “impact” recording of the service through data collection

How to apply

For further information please visit www.aberdeenfoyer.com/vacancies. Please send your CV and cover letter to

recruitment@aberdeenfoyer.com.

Download Job Profile

Download Job Pack

Head of Education (Linn Moor School)

VSA

£60k p.a. Full Time 35 hours Permanent Aberdeen

Closing date: 15/05/2026

Find out more and apply at acvo.org.uk/vacancies

We have an exciting permanent opportunity for a ‘Head of Education’ to join our Linn Moor Campus in Peterculter,

Aberdeen. This is a rare opportunity to lead a school where the staffing, therapeutic expertise and facilities are already in

place to do the meaningful, creative and ambitious work that children with complex needs deserve. We are looking for a

leader who is inspired by the possibilities this environment offers and who is committed to helping every pupil thrive.

As Head of Education, you will lead a small, highly resourced specialist residential school dedicated to supporting children

and young people with autism and complex needs. Our setting offers an exceptional environment for meaningful, childcentred

education: small class sizes, consistent one-to-one staffing, and an experienced, well-established team of teachers

and education support workers who are deeply committed to our pupils.

You will work alongside a skilled, multidisciplinary therapy team, enabling truly integrated practice that places

communication, wellbeing and development at the heart of learning. The school benefits from outstanding physical and

professional resources, including extensive rural grounds, sensory spaces, a working farm,

and a fleet of transport that allows us to extend learning far beyond the classroom.

Download Job Advert


acvo.org.uk

ACVO News May 2026

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