ACVO News August 25th 2021

ACVO NEWS

NEWS FROM ABERDEEN'S THIRD SECTOR

New Report Highlights the Work of TSIs Throughout Covid-19

CHANGING FACES Interview with Changing Faces Head of Scotland, Angela Harris p.32

FOUR PILLARS

MENTAL HEALTH ABERDEEN

Aberdeen based LGBT+ charity looks to raise funds for expansion of The Hub p28

70 years old and on the move to new premises on Aberdeen's Union Street p24

AUGUST 25 | 2021

apply online now for your

year’s free ACVO membership and be part of the collective voice of the Third Sector in Aberdeen "We are doing this as a way to say thank you and as an acknowledgement of the difficult year that third sector organisations have had coping with the pandemic. Your work and the impact that you have are what has helped hold people and communities together over the last 16 months.

Kindness, joint working, flexibility of delivery and innovation have been hallmarks of the work we have seen from our sector across Aberdeen. We want to continue to share the stories of the work you are doing, and how we can support you to do it."

Maggie Hepburn, Chief Executive, ACVO TSI

The membership offer extends to both new and existing members and is is open to all third/voluntary sector organisations based or operating in Aberdeen .

To find out more and apply online visit

acvo.org.uk/membership

ACVO News 3 Aug 25 2021

CONTENTS

20 Aberdeen Methodist Church look for Third Sector partners for exciting redevelopment plans

28 Four Pillars - The Hub welcomes people back and looks to expand

32 Interview with Angela Harris, Head of Scotland with Changing Faces

4 ACVO Updates 6 News from you and other networks 38 Volunteering The latest from Mike Melvin and Volunteer Aberdeen 42 Funding ACVO Funding Officer, Claire Shaw, brings you the latest funding news and opportunities 46 Health and social care updates Updates from ACVO and our health and social care partner organisations 50 Vacancies Latest opportunities from the third sector in Aberdeen and beyond

24 Mental Health Aberdeen - 70 years old and on the move to new premises on Union Street

Not on the mailing list to receive ACVO News Direct to your inbox every fortnight? Sign up here.

Scottish Charity No: SC036845

ACVO News 4 Aug 25 2021

New Report Highlights the Work of TSIs Throughout Covid-19 A new report published on Monday 23rd

TSI is independent they operate

out, economic recovery, and

August highlights the key findings and

nationally as TSI Network Scotland and

employability.

recommendations following a review of

have a critical role in supporting the

Third Sector Interfaces (TSIs) and the

third sector and volunteering through

The review identified the types of

roles they played during the Covid-19

their shared outcome framework.

pandemic.

activities undertaken by TSIs during Covid-19, the effectiveness of different

TSIs have played many significant roles

approaches and lessons for the future of

The review was funded by Scottish

during the pandemic. They have

TSIs. You can watch the summary video

Government and prepared in partnership

coordinated the third sector’s crisis

below and read the full report at

between Third Sector Interfaces and

response – connecting people,

tsi.scot/ess-report/

Evaluation Support Scotland (ESS). The

organisations and resources with a focus

review included a desk review, case

on key areas such as food, isolation,

studies of six TSI areas and independent

medicine collection and parenting

interviews with local partners.

support.

ACVO is your local Third Sector

They have supporting TSOs in

Interface for Aberdeen City and there is an equivalent Third Sector Interface in every other local authority area of Scotland.

challenging times, helping them to access funding and reboot their business models. They have also had a key role in involving the third sector and partners in

The TSI model was developed in 2010

resetting the agenda both locally and

and reviewed in 2017. Although each

nationally, in areas such as vaccine roll

News 5 ACVO Aug 25 2021

ACVO News 6 Aug 25 2021

NEWS

News from you and other networks

Fantastic four raise £53,000 in Munro challenge to help fund Brighter Futures opportunities for young people £85,000 already raised towards £100,000 target for legacy fund set up in memory of formerAFCCT chairman, Duncan Skinner

A

team which set out to raise funds for Aberdeen Football Club Community Trust’s (AFCCT) Brighter Futures Legacy Fund, has bagged £53,000 after completing a challenge which saw them conquer seven Munros in 24 hours.

Over the course of the challenge, their Munro tally included five of the six highest Munros in Scotland. They ascended a total of 10,000 feet and walked 40 miles and over 90,000 steps in a day.

experience that I’ll never forget, and I know Duncan was proudly looking down on us.”

The legacy fund was set up in memory of former AFCCT chairman Duncan Skinner who died in April year after losing a yearlong battle with cancer. It supports the Trust’s work with young people, including a year-long programme which helps 14-18

Liz Bowie, AFCCT Chief Executive, said: “It’s been humbling to see the level of support that we have received from across the community. Duncan touched the lives of so many people and he was influential in making the Trust what it is

Trust ambassador Mark Wilson, who led the team, said: “Duncan had an energy and a real passion to help make sure that young people got a good start in life and that they were given a chance to be the best they could be. I am delighted that this support for young people will evolve through Duncan Skinner Brighter Futures Legacy Fund and be a fitting a legacy to

year olds reach their full potential.

today.

him.”

Liz Bowie, chief executive of AFCCT, along with Mark Wilson, Iain Landsman

“The challenge was the toughest walk of my life and definitely befitting of the

Iain Landsman added: “Duncan and I were both members of Deeside Golf Club and I

and Eric Harper, decided the Munro challenge would be a fitting way to raise funds in memory of Duncan, who was himself a keen hillwalker.

cause we raised money for. The highlight was reaching the top of Ben Macdui at first sunlight to find the summit sitting just above a full cloud inversion. It’s an

was fortunate to serve the committee during his tenure as captain of the club.

We had a common passion for being up in the hills and would often share photos or

News 7 ACVO Aug 25 2021

NEWS

tales from walks. I recalled Duncan telling me about a mammoth walk he completed in 2009 raising money for PSN. We had previously done four other walks for AFCCT and had been planning a significant walk, which Duncan was going to join us on, last year to mark our fifth year of fundraising, however, plans were put on hold. It just felt right, given the tragic passing of Duncan, that we should set ourselves the challenge of walking in his footsteps in aid of his legacy fund.”

In total over £53,000 was raised by the walk including a £20,000 donation from businessman Bob Keiller, £10,000 from AFC chairman Dave Cormack, an anonymous donation of £5,000 as well as more than £17,000 through our Just Giving page.

Helping them put their best foot forward was Adidas Terrex which donated footwear and outdoor apparel for the mission.

The Brighter Futures fund was instigated by a £20,000 donation from Duncan earlier in the year. It has no regular funding stream to help it expand and the money raised in the Munro challenge will go towards a £100,000 fundraising target which will fund the programme for the next five years.

The fund has also benefited by £1,500 donated by fans following Duncan’s death and a £10,000 donation from CNR. This generosity has resulted in the total raised for the Brighter Futures fund reaching almost £85,000.

Brighter Futures supports a number of initiatives for young people including the Young Ambassador programme for 14-18 year olds. Around 50 young people have already benefited from the programme which gives them the chance to gain essential life experiences, skills and qualifications which might not otherwise be available to them and will ultimately improve their chances of finding employment and reaching their full potential.

The Trust continues to fundraise for the Brighter Futures fund with future events planned. A Just Giving Page for donations to the fund has been set up at justgiving.com/campaign/brighterfutures

from l to r: Iain Landsman, Eric Harper, Liz Bowie and Mark Wilson

NEWS

ACVO News 8 Aug 25 2021

Trauma-Informed Aberdeen, rebuilding the network after COVID-19 event Septemeber 16th Join the 70/30 Campaign team on the 16th September for a Q&A and for the chance to be part of a network working to make Aberdeen trauma-informed.

The 70/30 Campaign comprises of a UKand Ireland-wide network of individuals, organisations and elected representatives working together to reduce child abuse, neglect and other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) by at least 70% by the year 2030. The initiative was launched by the charity WAVE Trust.

Isobel Dawson Trustee at WAVE Trust and 70/30 Ambassador said of the online event, “It will be a great opportunity to find out what other people are doing in the area, and to share ideas of how to move things forward.

“After COVID put our ambassador work on hold, we are excited to start things back up again and link up with everyone across Aberdeen who is passionate about embedding trauma informed practice into their lives and organisations.

“Our Resilience screening, brainstorming workshop and fundraising with COOP in 2019-2020 set up some exciting groundwork we can't wait to build on, and we now have the opportunity to include Aberdeen in a wider Scottish and UK wide push towards being Trauma-Informed."

Online booking is required and can be done at https://bit.ly/2W9NS6T To find out more about the campaign see the WAVE Trust website at www.wavetrust.org/7030 or email 7030aberdeen@gmail.com.

WayWORD Festival to take place from 19th -26th September WayWORD, the student-led literary arts festival from the University of Aberdeen, will take place from the 19th - 26th September 2021 with a vibrant blend of online and in-person events.

and sound art. There is something for everyone at WayWORD’s 2021 festival.

Find out more and view the full programme at waywordfestival.com

WayWORD is a volunteer student and youth-led literary arts festival brought to you by the WORD Centre for Creative Writing at the University.

Workshops, author events, panel discussions and performance nights are all free and include BSL interpretation.

Performers include Leila Aboulela, Graeme Armstrong, Claire Cunningham, Harry Josephine Giles, Kirstin Innes, A.L. Kennedy, Val McDermid, Zakiya McKenzie, Ely Percy, Karine Polwart, Dan Schreiber, Preti Taneja, Alan Warner, Irvine Welsh, Alex Wheatle, and more!

This year’s line-up includes workshops in animation, Bothy ballads and creative writing to improve mental health. There are more than 40 events covering topics such as nature, beauty, witches, poetry, music, comedy, Gaelic playwriting, dance, painting

Leila Aboulela who will present 'Decolonising the Imagination' at WayWORD 2021 The masterclass by the author welcomes anyone interested in antiracism, Black Lives Matter and diversity, as well as writers, readers and educators who are looking for ways to enrich their practice.

Find out more about the event and view the full programme at waywordfestival.com

News 9 ACVO Aug 25 2021

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Stronger Families Inside Out ‘Club 10’ recommences in-person gatherings with event at Aberdeen’s Duthie Park

S

tronger Families Inside Out is an initiative delivered by the Denis Law Legacy Trust and Families Outside, funded by BBC Children in Need. The

baking, t-shirt designing, pumpkin carving, bingo and learning some tricks with a magician! A variety of online classes were also offered to participants including yoga,

programme supports young people and their families in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire who are affected by imprisonment.

reading activities with author Mike Nicholson, fun fitness classes and music workshops."

In addition to activities within visits at HMP & YOI Grampian, their communitybased peer support group ‘Club 10’ takes place once per month and engages families affected by imprisonment in sport and creative activities to help reduce social isolation and introduce children and young people to others in similar circumstances.

Now, as Covid restrictions are relaxed, the group can once again meet in person.

Jen Riach, Regional Family Support Coordinator with Families Outside said: "As with organisations nationwide, from March 2020 the delivery of our services had to quickly adapt. Whilst being unable to meet in person was a challenge and presented new barriers, the provision of an online platform meant families were still able to meet every month and access a safe, open space where they could interact and have fun.

"Each month families received activity packs with items for sessions including

One regular attendee at the meetings said, “Even though we’re not able to meet in person, the couple hours at the end of the month are fun and a distraction”

"On Tuesday 27th July 2021 we were finally able to host our first in-person Club 10 since February 2020! 9 families, including 19 young people, met for the Family Fun Day in Duthie Park. This included group members from before lockdown and those who joined during", said Jen. The fantastic day was enjoyed by all who came along with one family saying "Seeing the kids playing and talking was so good…

It was such a good day and it went by so fast.”

Club 10’s are entirely free of charge and transport can be provided to sessions where required, thanks to Central Coaches

For more information please contact Kiana k.coutts7@rgu.ac.uk or Jen jen.riach@familiesoutside.org.uk

ACVO News 10 Aug 25 2021

NEWS

GET INTO FILM WITH Station House Media Unit (shmu) announce their latest programmes to support film making in the North East with Moving Image Arts: AS Level Film Course for people aged 16-25, The 7th Aberdeen BFI Film Academy for 16-19 year olds and Climate Challenge 1.5°, open to all ages. Find out more at shmu.org.uk/tv

MOVING IMAGE ARTS: AS LEVEL FILM COURSE Aspiring young filmmakers from Aberdeen and Shire will have the opportunity to kick-start their career in the film industry through 2 exciting courses beginning in September at shmu (Station House Media Unit).

Each course offers a real hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn new skills in filmmaking ideal for anyone with an interest in potentially working in the film industry.

The AS Level Moving Image Arts course, funded by Screen Scotland, examines the history, techniques, and creative impact of film, while offering the knowledge and skills to enable students to make their own films. Over the course of the year, participants will gain a knowledge & understanding of film language and techniques drawn from key areas of

filmmaking such as camera, sound, editing and lighting.

There is a strong focus on the work of Alfred Hitchcock where students will develop an understanding of his concept of Pure Cinema and how this informed his work influenced Hollywood cinema. Students will also explore other key movements such as Soviet Montage and German Expressionism and their lasting impact in cinema.

Students will then explore their own creativity to create a portfolio of work including a short film. This will allow them to develop their skills in craft areas such as, screenwriting, directing, camera work, lighting, editing and sound.

For more details about this course, email: mia@shmu.org.uk

News 11 ACVO Aug 25 2021

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APPLICATIONS OPEN NOW FOR THE 7TH

SHMU

ABERDEEN BFI FILM ACADEMY

°

CLIMATE CHALLENGE 1.5

FILMS:

FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS Film Access Scotland, in partnership with shmu, is offering free online workshops in the North East as part of Climate

where they will receive filmmaking and climate literacy training. Once they have completed the training, they will be able to

Challenge: 1.5 Degrees Films.

help their group or organisation make a 90-second live action or animated film for the Climate Challenge."

The workshops are open for staff members, representatives or volunteers from organisations and will see participants trained in accessible filmmaking skills. The aim of the workshops are to teach skills to enable participants to make a 90 second film about climate change using their mobile phone.

Meray Diner, Project & Outreach Coordinator with Film Access Scotland said “This is a great opportunity for professional development and training of your staff members or volunteers, who will gain confidence in using filmmaking as a tool for communication.

“The workshops run for 6 weeks, with Climate Challenge: 1.5° Films open for submissions until December 2021, which gives learners the opportunity to get support from their workshop course so they can go on to make further films with their organisation's staff and user groups in order to submit to the challenge, with the possibility of their films getting selected for awards and screening events.

“Representatives from groups and organisations, such as Community Groups, Youth Groups, Environmental Groups, Activist Groups and Arts Groups can register for the free online workshops

Regardless of background, age or filmmaking experience, anyone anywhere can submit a film to the Climate Challenge:1.5 Degrees Films challenge. It is set against the background of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP-26) taking place in Glasgow from 31st October to 12th November 2021. The Challenge is led by Film Access Scotland and supported by the National Lottery through Screen Scotland and by Keep Scotland Beautiful.

The workshops delivered in association with shmu start on Monday 6th September and take place between 19:0021:00. Registration can be accessed online at https://bit.ly/2WkoF9N There will also be a daytime course on a Tuesday starting early October with dates TBC. Contact katie.paterson@shmu.org.uk for more information.

Film Access Scotland can provide bursaries to cover costs, such as childcare and technical assistance, for those who have accessibility requirements and/or

The 7th Aberdeen BFI Film Academy, managed and delivered by shmu and funded by the BFI and Creative Scotland, is open to any young person of 16-19 years with a passion for film and looking to a career in the film or creative industry.

BFI Film Academy offers students an opportunity to work in teams to create a short film in an industry focused environment with support from industry practitioners through a series of masterclasses and workshops.

This high-quality course will develop participants’ understanding of key craft areas such screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing and sound.

Completed films will be screened to an invited audience at the Belmont Filmhouse at the end of the project.

Films from previous years have been shown at Film Festivals all over the world with Metropolitan Spaghetti (2018) winning the Audience Award at the FANS Film Festival in Glasgow, and Life’s A Drag (2019) screening at the prestigious Edinburgh International Film Festival.

In addition to the practical experience on the course, participants will also secure an NPA in Film and Media at SCQF Level 5 and will become part of a BFI Alumni group which opens up a range of additional training opportunities across the UK for the young person following the course. shmu are dedicated to making their

would otherwise be financially prohibited from attending the workshops.

courses inclusive and accessible to all and welcome applications from all

Please email 1.5degrees@filmaccess.scot to discuss bursaries, accessibility and for any other questions you may have.

backgrounds and levels of experience.

For more details about this course, email: bfi@shmu.org.uk

NEWS

ACVO News 12 Aug 25 2021

Step out September: Walk timetable announced S tep out September is a campaign to

encourage people across the city to take part in safe, local opportunities in September, it is a partnership project between Bon Accord Care, ACVO, Aberdeen City Health & Social Care Partnership and Sport Aberdeen.

Step out September is part of ‘Stay Well Stay Connected’ which has an aim to promote better health and wellbeing, develop meaningful community relationships, promote better inclusion and help reduce social isolation.

There will be a range of gentle social walks and talks advertised where you can connect with other people both in and around your local area and in some of Aberdeen’s open spaces. You don’t need any special equipment, just bring yourself, wear your comfy shoes and bring a jacket.

If you use a wheelchair, use walking aids or if you are pushing a buggy, come along for a blether, we really want your company!

If you would like to do something in your school, in your housing complex, or workplace then let us know. We will have lots of ideas and resources we can share with you for inspiration so get in touch via SWSC@aberdeencity.gov.uk and we can add you to our Step Out September list.

We’d love to get some photos to capture what you are doing to celebrate Stepping out this September!

If you already host a regular activity that you would like to include in Step out September, we would be delighted to hear from you!

If you are interested in training to become a walk leader then we can arrange this too.

For more details on FREE Paths for All Walk Leader Training please click here or contact Sport Aberdeen Health Walk Coordinator, Brian Harrison, on ActiveLifestyles@sportaberdeen.co.uk

We are especially keen to reach those who

You can also take the Step Out September

have lost confidence and feel isolated due to the pandemic, so if this is you or someone you know, then come along!

Pledge. By pledging to take part in Step out September, you are playing your part in helping us work towards a healthier, happier and more active city and community.

We will give regular updates on Step out September but please get in touch if you have any queries or if you want to share your own ideas.

Together we CAN and together we WILL walk and talk our way back to wellbeing! We can’t wait to see you!

To view all information and the latest timetable of events please visit sportaberdeen.co.uk/step-out-september

Please fill out a short survey which will help by giving us an idea of the reach and impact of this initiative. This is also a really great way to celebrate all the positive things that will be happening during Step out September.

News 13 ACVO Aug 25 2021

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MEET THE TURNING POINT SCOTLAND

COMMUNITY CONNECTORS

The Turning Point Scotland Community Connectors is a

We are small team working closely with a small group of

new project that started in April 2021 and is aimed at

people. Our workload is based on individuals’ needs and

helping individuals to access community resources, build

varies day to day according to those individual’s

resilience and establish meaningful relationships moving

availability.

beyond services.

So far within our project we have worked with a few

The project is an extension of the Housing Support Service

people to achieve their personal goals. These goals have

which started on the 1st of November 2019 and has since

varied from completing a nail technician course to finding a

developed into a large service focused on housing support

volunteer placement. We have also worked alongside

for those who are at risk or have been at risk of

individuals to help build their confidence in public and

homelessness. It was identified that a crucial element of

community spaces. This has included us going to gym

preventing repeat homelessness is people having a

inductions and gym sessions as well as accompanying

community connection and an identity away from support

people to different groups and activities.

services. At the moment all the people that we work with

As our approach to the people that we work with is so

are internal applicants.

person centred and based on the individuals’ wants and

The aim of the Community Connectors is to support people

not their needs we have found people to be very open to

affected by social isolation and loneliness, to help them

our project and willing to try new things that they may not

gain confidence and to reconnect with their community in

have had the confidence to do otherwise. For example, an

partnership with local resources. We place the person at

individual that we have worked with who was extremely

the centre of what we do and work with a citizenship

socially isolated in time has now joined a befriending group

approach in mind (rights, responsibilities, roles,

that meets on a regular basis. We worked with this person

relationships and resources) by offering practical help and

to build up their confidence by meeting in public spaces

encouragement for up to three months. At the heart of this

such as parks, cafes etc and attending a few of the

new project we are working with individuals to provide

befriending groups sessions until they felt comfortable and

them with the community links and connections they

confident enough to attend themselves.

require to aid them in the last steps of their support

Our motto at the Community Connectors is “your ambition,

journey. We promote relationships beyond a professional housing support capacity and help people to identify community supports which may help avoid future re-entry to services.

our mission” we feel this sums up everything our project stands for and what we hope to achieve with each individual is unlocking their potential to pursue their dreams. We hope as our project develops and as

We work with individuals on a one-to-one basis, taking a

community resources reopen we will be able to work with

holistic and innovative approach in our working practice.

more and more people and help individuals to move

Our goal is for people to have found a sense of belonging,

beyond reliance upon support services.

identity and have valued roles and recognition in the community through gaining access to local organisations, groups, activities and courses.

NEWS

ACVO News 14 Aug 25 2021

News 15 ACVO Aug 25 2021

E

arly next month, Aberdeen City’s first Community Garden Festival is set to get underway over the weekend of the 4th-5th September.

Organised by the Food Growing Strategy Implementation Group, and hosted by Granite City Good Food, the festival looks to be a celebration of growing in all its forms, and the volunteers who make it happen.

The group, originally developed as a forum for the implementation of Granite City Growing - the Aberdeen City Growing Strategy – was tasked to ensure growing remains an integral tool in Aberdeen’s ambition to be among the first Sustainable Food Places Silver Award winners in Scotland.

The group first convened in March 2021, and an immediate priority of the group was to use creative means to encourage volunteering in community growing spaces. Further encouraged by the success of projects such as Keep Growing Aberdeen and Aberdeen City’s Food Growing Directory - as well as events such as Climate Week North East - the group decided that 2021 would be the first year of the Community Garden Festival.

Resident local Community Growing Groups were invited to register interest in the festival, where they were free to organise their own events around key activities or simply to promote an open garden. There was fantastic interest with over 19 groups signing up, meaning events will be happening all over the city - from Tillydrone to Peterculter, from Tullos to Springhill and everywhere in between!

For those interested in community growing, who want to find out more and learn new skills - or simply for those looking for free opportunities on the weekend of the 4th and 5th September - there is only one place to be. At #GardenFestAberdeen.

To view the activities taking place across the weekend, find the brochure here. And an online map of all participating locations can be found here.

To keep up to date on the festival follow Granite City Good Food on Facebook and Instagram, and why not join the Keep Growing Aberdeen Facebook group, too?

NEWS

NEWS

ACVO News 16 Aug 25 2021

Circular economy at Compass

L

ocal medical charity, Camphill Wellbeing Trust (CWT) launched Compass in September 2020. With the project well underway in transforming the former Waldorf School site on Craigton Road, there are already some super opportunities for the local community to get involved as they begin sharing practical solutions for healthy and sustainable lifestyles.

Since the project began, Compass has received over 1600 hours of volunteer support with the local community coming together to lend a socially-distanced hand! Volunteers have helped lay paths, create compost heaps and assist with indoor work to support upcoming renovations while others have created over 14 no-dig beds to use as demonstration allotments planting up a variety of tasty organic vegetables.

Catherine Redgate, Assistant Manager at Camphill Wellbeing Trust said “Our latest events also include the Compass Pop-Up with fresh, local organicallygrown produce and hand-crafted items available on a donation basis. This is the start of our contribution to a circular economy, utilising surplus produce from neighbouring Camphill communities and reducing waste.

“Our June event featured organic rhubarb, hand-picked by CWT staff, along with surplus leek and cabbage plants while our August Pop-Up boasted over 51kg of produce including cabbage, kale, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, peas and potatoes harvested onsite by volunteers! Our Compass pop-ups, including the ‘Plant a Tree for Compass’ initiative have now raised over £225 for the project.

“The next volunteer day is planned for Saturday 11th September - come along to help us harvest the latest produce or visit the Compass Pop-up from 12noon onwards to pick up your selection of fresh, local, organically-grown food! We’d love to see how you use the produce from Compass too!”

If you would like to show off your culinary skills with produce from Compass, you can send photos and recipes of meals you’ve created to compass@cwt.scot or share at facebook.com/CWTCompass For the latest updates and next volunteering dates, find out more on their website at camphillwellbeing.org.uk/compass, on Facebook or mail compass@cwt.scot You can also support with a donation at virginmoneygiving.com/fund/Compass

News 17 ACVO Aug 25 2021

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Grampian Autistic Society comedy night fundraiser at Chapelton a rip-roaring success

A

fun filled family Gala was the hive

of activity at Chapelton near Newtonhill recently. This well attended outdoor event was clearly a welcome change with both children and adults alike thoroughly enjoying the activities and atmosphere of the day.

But the star of the show must go to the Comedy Night held that evening. A complete sell out and a “rip-roaring success”, according to Rachel Rollo, Digital Marketing & Events Manager for Chapelton.

Rockhopper Comedy were responsible for the line-up which included Jamie Tait, Declan McGuigan, Violet Wilde, Scott Christie, Peter Wood with headliner Martin Bearne. Cheesy, farcical, downright absurd and hilariously funny is the only way to describe the evening –

the perfect ingredients for a light-hearted,

charities’ social media channels and

sidesplittingly fantastic experience.

website with press announcements leading up to the event.

Billy Alexander, CEO at Grampian Autistic Society (GAS) agreed adding, “The comedy night was such a bundle of laughs, it was great to see so many people out enjoying themselves.

“A huge thank you must go to Chapelton as without their expertise and know how, not to mention their event field, this event would never have taken place.”

Both events took place in support of Grampian Autistic Society and mark the start of a year of events the charity has planned to raise both funds and awareness of the work it does. The next event will be a black-tie ball on 6th November this year – just 11 weeks away!

Details of the Ball will be posted on the

If you would like to find out more about the Ball or the charity itself and how you can support it, please call their Business Development Manager, Lisa Barnard on 07542 024988.

ACVO News 18 Aug 25 2021

Denis Law Legacy Trust is saddened to hear of the news that Denis Law has been diagnosed with mixed dementia.

Known

first the

and

foremost

organisation

for

and

his

incredible

stellar

example

career to

all

as our

a

footballer,

staff,

Denis

volunteers,

is

and

also

a

fantastic

young

patron

of

participants.

The following statement has been issued by Denis: “I am at the point where I feel I want to be open about my

“I have good days and bad days and aim to take each day

condition. I have been diagnosed with ‘mixed dementia’,

as it comes adjusting my lifestyle accordingly. I hung up my

which is more than one type of dementia, in my case this

football boots a long time ago and now it’s time to put my

being Alzheimer’s and Vascular dementia. This has been an

signing days behind me too, so apologies to anyone who

extremely difficult year for everyone and the long periods

has sent me anything but I am just not able. I am trying to

of isolation have certainly not helped.

be positive and determined to continue watching my club,

“It is an incredibly challenging and problematic disease and

Manchester United at Old Trafford, hopefully this will be a

I have witnessed many friends go through this. You hope

season of success and I am excited by the new signings

that it won’t happen to you, even make jokes about it

that Ole and the club have made.

whilst ignoring the early signs because you don’t want it to

“Also where possible I would like to continue my

be true. You get angry, frustrated, confused and then

involvement with the ‘Denis Law Legacy Trust’, the work

worried, worried for your family, as they will be the ones

the staff and volunteers do in the community is amazing

dealing with it.

and it makes a real difference.

“However the time has come to tackle this head on, excuse

“I know the road ahead will be hard, demanding, painful

the pun. I recognise how my brain is deteriorating and how

and ever changing and so ask for understanding and

my memory evades me when I don’t want it to and how

patience as this will not be an easy journey especially for

this causes me distress in situations that are beyond my

the people who love you the most”

control. I do understand what is happening and that is why

“My daughter, Di, is completing ‘The Thames Bridges Trek’

I want to address my situation now whilst I am able, because I know there will be days when I don’t understand and I hate the thought of that right now.

to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society so if you can please donate at: www.justgiving.com/thelawman “As a family, we have been offered support by Alzheimer’s

“In the height of the pandemic I said I hoped that if one

Society and have chosen to fundraise for the charity to

positive was to come out of it, it would be that it would

help support its crucial work. Alzheimer’s Society’s services

make people kinder to each other, so that’s what I am

have never been in more need, used over 5.5 million times

hoping for now. I don’t want people to be saddened if I

since March 2020, and are a lifeline to thousands of

forget places, people or dates because you need to

families who are also facing a dementia diagnosis.

remember I enjoyed all those memories and I am lucky to have experienced what I have in my life…a loving and supportive family, a great career doing what I loved and getting paid to do it and lifelong friends.

“The charity is also doing amazing work with the sports industry, with its Sport United Against Dementia campaign, which I fully support. This really could make the biggest difference to former players, players, and fans alike.

“Thank you, Denis”

News 19 ACVO Aug 25 2021

“We have offered support to Denis Law and the whole family.

We are incredibly thankful to the family for choosing to raise vital funds for us and hope Denis’s bravery in coming forward will encourage many others to seek the help they need, for which we are hugely grateful.

“We’ve seen too many sporting heroes impacted by the condition, which is why our Sport United Against Dementia campaign is needed now more than ever. It’s never been more important to fund crucial research and our vital support services and ensure that right now, past and present players, as well as fans, know our services are here and can get the dedicated dementia support they deserve.”

Kate

Lee,

Chief

Executive

at

Alzheimer’s

Society

“Denis is a fantastic patron of our organisation, Denis Law Legacy Trust, and we're all very grateful for the time and effort he puts in to help us achieve our collective goals.

“As a player, his grit and determination took him from the streets of Aberdeen to the pinnacle of world football and everyone at the Trust knows he will use that same strength now to take on this illness. We wish him the very best and applaud his bravery in being so open about the matter.”

Mark

Williams,

Chief

Operating

Officer

of

Denis

Law

Legacy

Trust

Denis' daughter, Di, is completing ‘The Thames Bridges Trek’ to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society make a donation to the fundraiser at

www.justgiving.com/thelawman

ACVO News 20 Aug 25 2021 Aberdeen Methodist Church, located in the heart of the city on Crown Terrace, are looking for third sector organisations

Rev. Garnett shared with us more details of his vision for the redevelopment of the space and the motivation for doing so.

much more. There are spaces within the church that we can develop further which would allow us to create a place for the

Rev. James Garnett quickly realised upon

“For several years now we've run Open Table on a Sunday where we support homeless and vulnerable people. We kept this going throughout the lockdown,

his appointment to the church in 2019 that some of the spaces within the

hosting a takeaway service in the carpark, but now things have opened up we will

community to meet. The building gets used as a church on a Sunday morning and used for a couple of groups throughout the week, but it would be good to see it occupied regularly. It’s an

building were under-utilised and saw the potential of these to be developed for use by organisations whose work reflect the values at the heart of the church; support, inclusion and community.

soon be able to meet face to face and sit and enjoy meals together once again.

welcoming interior in a fantastic city centre location.

“We are also now hosting sessions on a Thursday afternoon. For a couple of hours people will come and have a have a chat and do some craft which helps to further

“To really fulfil the potential of this idea I feel strongly that the best route for us to take would be to work in partnership with a third sector or community organisation,

in the city to partner with them in order to play an integral part in their redevelopment plans.

The central location, and flexibility of the spaces within, present an ideal opportunity for partnership working; the church can further build upon and expand their reach within the community while an organisation looking for a city centre location to develop a café or meeting space, are presented with the unique proposition of establishing themselves in one of Aberdeen’s historic buildings.

develop the friendships formed on a on a Sunday while offering some structure and a chance to give support. It’s a nice space acoustically so we can have several conversations going on at once and the central location of the church is ideal for people to access and drop in.

“Seeing the success of this made me realise that we have the potential to do so

historic building with a spacious and

not only to develop the initial idea but also the strategy to realise the building as a thriving community hub in the heart of the city.

“Our church has always had a close connection with the people of Aberdeen and we host a number of community groups. We've got this big sanctuary space as you first enter the building, but

ABERDEEN METHODIST CHURCH As part of their redevelopment journey, the church is looking to partner with Third Sector organisations

News 21 ACVO Aug 25 2021

we also have a kitchen, meeting rooms and a recreation hall so it's a good flexible space. At the moment a variety of organisations and clubs use the building, for example, we host a yoga group and a theatre academy as well as various spiritual groups and charities.

“What we're hoping to do looking forward is to expand on this success and establish the building as a community hub, making it more accessible and hospitable to a variety of groups.

“It doesn't need a great deal of change to do that. What we're thinking of doing is improving the disabled access, by putting in a lift to the upstairs area which will be levelled off and replaced with either a meeting room or even just left as a flat space which would be an ideal location for a café.

“We also aim to put in another kitchen on the ground floor, to refurbish some of the existing meeting rooms and to make sure we have reliable Wi Fi throughout the building.

“We are currently in the process of doing a feasibility study around the proposed developments and think our building has tremendous potential. I'm interested in in any partnerships with charities and third sector organisations that would like to join us in this journey, particularly if there are any organisations looking for a cafe space in the city centre.

“I feel it's a good time to be looking for partnership because plans are at an early stage. If an organisation or community group were interested in working with us then we would enthusiastically welcome their ideas and input. The plans are fluid at

the moment and we want to make the space is as useful as it can be.

“We are open to discussing any potential ideas and not necessarily limited to the development of a café alone. For example, we often come across people who need access to counselling but understand counselling services often encounter problems with finding city centre spaces to operate, our meeting rooms could provide a solution for that.

“However, I did mention the idea of a café for a reason; food has been so important to what we do in the community and eating is central to the church life as well.

We're a multicultural church and our congregation regularly contribute a diverse array of cuisine during our open table sessions. We have been lucky enough to experience first hand so many

ACVO News 22 Aug 25 2021

interesting cooking traditions.

“Redeveloping the space, with a new kitchen and eating area opens up the possibility of expanding on this idea so if a charity were looking to develop food based work, whether it's cooking workshops or anything to do with community food, that would be close to our hearts as well.

“Before moving to Aberdeen in 2019, I did some of my training in Oxford where the church did a lot a food based work with two main aims; to cut food waste and to get food to people who need it. I’d like to draw on this experience and envision a café space that connects people with local produce, maybe even grown in one of the many community gardens in the city, while bringing people together.

“There are so many organisations in Aberdeen doing incredible work around this already and it would be great to look at potential ways to expand upon it with a partnership with ourselves.

“Sharing food, experiences and connecting communities is fundamental part of life and expresses so much what the church is about. I’m excited to see where the project takes us and to creating new partnerships with organisations in the city.

“A partnership is something that works well for both parties. In this instance we have the opportunity to repurpose underutilised parts of our building while simultaneously being in the position to offer the opportunity of a city centre location for a charity or community organisation.

“I welcome anyone with interest to get in touch so we can start the conversation.”

To get in touch with Rev. Garnett you can can email james.garnett@methodist.org.uk

Balcony area which could be redeveloped in to a cafe space

ACVO News 24 Aug 25 2021

MENTAL HEALTH ABERDEEN:

Langstane House on Union Street, the soon to be new premises of Mental Health Aberdeen

70 YEARS OLD AND ON THE MOVE! Formed in December 1950, Mental Health Aberdeen (MHA) is in the midst its 70th year supporting local people, organisations and companies that together make up the local community.

Now the organisation are excited to announce they have secured long term premises that will root the charity in the centre of the city.

News 25 ACVO Aug 25 2021

Formed in December 1950 and originally called the North East Association for Mental Health, Mental Health Aberdeen (MHA) is in their 70th year supporting the community in Aberdeen. First and foremost, the charity exists to provide counselling support to those individuals affected by mental ill-health, but information and signposting to other specialised agencies is also a large part of service delivery as well as a growing training service. MHA is the “umbrella” for 6 individual projects that deliver services to their respective target groups. In the 12 months prior to the onset of Lockdown, close to 20,000 individual face to face counselling sessions were delivered.

After 70 years of moving from home to home as various leases ended, the charity was again faced with this upheaval as 2020 progressed.

After months of searching and discussions, MHA have secured long term premises that will root the charity in the centre of the city.

Langstane House (opposite the Music Hall) is a building of significant historical importance and was originally two townhouses that have been converted over the years to provide almost 12,000 sq.ft.of accommodation on three floors above the retail units on Union Street.

This location is the most accessible to all potential service users and will be our long term home.

The move is important in a number of ways. Firstly, the premises will be refurbished to provide a safe and confidential space for local people to receive counselling and for MHA staff to have the facilities and room that reflects the importance of their work. Secondly, the visibility of the building and its central location will make it impossible to ignore the issues of Mental Health at a time when more people than ever are coming forward for support. Thirdly, the building will be a hub not just for MHA but for other local charities who support the most vulnerable in our community. The second floor of Langstane House comprises approximately 4,000 sq. ft. of accommodation and half of this has already been taken by Home Start Aberdeen. This leaves 2,000 sq.ft. available and MHA would be delighted to hear from local charities interested in relocating. Finally, the extensive refurbishment will upgrade a building on Union Street at a time when this is a major priority of Aberdeen City Council and other related agencies. Let’s also not forget the “Lang Stane", a granite standing stone that sits recessed into the outside corner of the building. The stone is thought to have been part of a stone circle from approximately 3,000 B.C.

ACVO News 26 Aug 25 2021

The visuals on the left show what the converted space will look like, with the first floor of the building providing both Adult and Youth counselling but separated to provide the 1st Floor

utmost confidentiality.

The third floor of the building will house a dedicated training space to be used by both MHA as well as other third party organisations as well as necessary administration areas

3rd Floor

If you are interested in supporting this significant development for MHA, there are a number of ways you can help and support. Please visit mha.uk.net or contact us on fundraiser@mhaberdeen.org.uk for more details.

Langstane House on Union Street, soon to be MHA Aberdeen's new premises

Volunteering Opportunities No charity exists without the support of loyal volunteers in all aspects of its operation. From counsellors to fundraisers, board members to supporters it is impossible to function without their goodwill. MHA is no exception in this respect and has significant support in adult counselling, board governance and of course an army of fundraisers.

We are always delighted to hear from anybody who would like to give their time and talents to help us so please get in touch on fundraiser@mhaberdeen.org.uk .

Join our community – “Friends of MHA” Your support for MHA can be as simple as a small £2 monthly donation that will be used entirely in service delivery. In return, Friends of MHA will receive a T-shirt or sports top and regular email updates on MHA news and events. We have tried to make joining as simple as possible so just text FRIENDSOFMHA to 70085….easy!

You can also follow our social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Contact us Finally and most importantly, it’s essential that we all keep talking to family, friends and colleagues if we notice any small change in anyone’s behaviour. We are only a call away if you need to talk to us, and please remember that EVERYONE needs to take care of their mental health.

Call 01224 573982 or find further contact details at mha.uk.net

News 27 ACVO Aug 25 2021

ACIS

ACIS YOUTH

Aberdeen Counselling and Information Service (ACIS) is our longest running project and has been working closely with the adult Aberdeen community since 1983. It started as a drop-in advice and support centre, but eventually crystallised into its current format providing free counselling to adults aged 18.

ACIS also offers an ‘information on other mental health agencies’ and regular signposting to more appropriate services.

The ACIS Youth service (5-18 year olds), was initially developed in the Torry primary and secondary schools from 2003 and has grown to have a significant presence in most schools across the City including local colleges.The service delivers around 9,000 individual counselling sessions over a 12 month period and has recently piloted a Parent service to ensure that counselling to the young person is most effective.

CALSAYSEAT COUNSELLING SERVICE

TORRY COUNSELLING SERVICE

Thanks to the help of the Fairer Aberdeen Fund, a dedicated

Torry Counselling service (Adults) is based at the Torry

counsellor was embedded in the local Calsayseat community in

Neighbourhood Centre from which it has been operating

2005 to help address the growing need for support in the

successfully since 2005. Created with help from Aberdeen’s

area. The service is now an established and integral part of the

Fairer Aberdeen Fund, the project offers around 1,000

local community and healthcare provision for the area within

appointments on a yearly basis. The service has recently

the Calsayseat Medical Practice.

introducing a couple’s counselling service with further developments planned.

ONE TO ONE COUNSELLING SERVICE Established in 1998, One To One provides free confidential counselling for the residents of Deeside in rural Aberdeenshire of all ages. The counselling staff and volunteers are trained and experienced Counsellors with a wide range of specialist fields, all willing to help their clients explore and work towards addressing their individual needs.

AMPUTEE COUNSELLING AT TWO ABERDEEN HOSPITALS, ARI AND WOODEND Established in 1998, One To One provides free confidential counselling for the residents of Deeside in rural Aberdeenshire of all ages.

The counselling staff and volunteers are trained and experienced Counsellors with a wide range of specialist fields, all willing to help their clients explore and work towards addressing their individual needs.

ACVO News 28 Aug 25 2021

As an 'older' member of the LGBTQIA+ community Four Pillars is invaluable. The hub is a wonderful safe space for everyone which is sorely needed. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to volunteer as there was nothing like this when I was growing up and had there been I think I would have benefitted from it immensely Four Pillars Volunteer

After moving from their premises in Aberdeen market following the closure of the building, Four Pillars, the Aberdeen based charity which exists to support the LGBT+ community, relocated to Regent Quay.

The Hub, is a place where the community can both offer and receive support in manners of mental, emotional, physical and sexual health as well as providing an open and social space to meet and socialise.

Following the lift of Covid restrictions, the Hub is once again welcoming people through its doors to meet face to face. Not only that, Four Pillars are also pleased to announce that they are looking to expand the facility and their reach in to the community.

News 29 ACVO Aug 25 2021 “The new addition to the Four Pillars hub will, once work is complete, allow us to offer so much more for our service users and the wider community” said Deejay Bullock, CEO of Four Pillars.

“The space will cater for additional volunteer training sessions, a more private space for group meetings, a space to provide LGBT+ Awareness training for other organisations and enable us to offer a space to other community groups for meetings and gatherings, all whilst allowing us to keep the already amazing drop-in service open and here when you need us” Four Pillars’ mission is to support the LGBT+ community on a person to person basis to build a community that supports itself through peer education; thereby allowing individuals to make informed choices to improve their overall health and wellbeing.

The organisation started in 2016 when the founders, who were actively involved in the LGBT+ community, saw there was a huge gap in services available Grampian. They recognised that a lack of information, support and social activities meant that the community were drifting further apart. Individuals were becoming more isolated and this was creating barriers in to education, acceptance and belonging.

The primary aim of rebuilding a community across Grampian was set out in the mission statement from day one. With this in mind, Four Pillars stands for four vital aspects of people’s well-being; to keep them happy and healthy in respect of their mental, physical, emotional, sexual health and well-being.

“There are several support services within Four Pillars, people can drop in to our hub anytime Tuesday – Saturday 10-6 to get advice, information, support. One to ones are available during these times and groups out-with. Four Pillars offers several groups which cater for many needs.

Our 4Inclusion group offers twice monthly meet ups where

the new hub is such a welcoming environment where I feel safe to be myself free of judgement. I have been using the services of Four Pillars for years now and I am so happy to see the charity growing Regular attendee of The Hub

individuals can meet others, build relations, grow confidences, reduce isolation and most importantly have fun”, said Deejay.

“Grampian T-Folk is another group we provide and this is open to anyone that identifies under the trans umbrella, the group meet once a month and talk about issues, catchup with each other and support each other through peer learning.

“We also support parents, partners, and family members of the LGBT+ community; it’s important we support and educate others so they are equipped to support their family, this improves overall health & wellbeing for the everyone involved.

“There’s a couple of other support groups available, please visit our website for more details and find the right support for you.”

ACVO News 30 Aug 25 2021 In between running Four Pillars and the Hub, Deejay also finds time to be the Event Manager for Grampian Pride, which is set for an in person return in October with a parade down Aberdeen’s Union Street.

“We are excited to be able to bring Pride back to the city following the pandemic.

“Pride stands for so much, namely, remembering our history and the struggles of LGBT+ across the world, from historical events such as the holocaust, laws forbidding homosexuality, the first

"Volunteering and working at Four Pillars has helped me develop my communication skills and given me a sense of community"

Four Pillars Volunteer

Stonewall riot and all those that have fought and died for equality, even if there is still a way to go. Celebrating our present is also a major part of it as it's important we take stock of the present and how far we have come, celebrate our achievements and pay tribute to those lost through war or illness. We also look to embrace our future as we come together as a community to face the future together. At the core of Pride and our work is the fight against inequality that is still happening today across our country and the world. We want to be part of building a future of acceptance, love, and true equality for all.”

In order to finance both the expansion of The Hub and the organisation of Grampian Pride, Four Pillars are actively seeking sources of funding.

“We spoke with ACVO’s Funding Officer, Claire Shaw, and it has been great to explore possible sources of funding. We also currently have a community fundraiser being run through the AVIVA Community fund.

“Refurbishing is going to be a big task but we have already raised £10,000 to start the building work, we are now looking to raise a further £5000 to support the project.

"We have lots of plans for this new space. As well as running our support groups and using the space for training we have secured local authority funding to run Artist lead workshops for the community.

"Being able to expand our space will allow us to further our services and help build back better after Covid 19. We adjusted our services to support our community during the pandemic, moving groups online and establishing a befriending service. The LGBT+ community now needs support getting back out in the world and rebuilding the the peer groups and connections that are so important to them.

“We had to find new premises during the lockdown as our pervious location was within an indoor market which closed permanently. We were lucky to find a wonderful building that we are able to adapt to suit our purpose. As restrictions are lifted we are excited to put on more activities and events to bring the community back together to support each other.”

Find out more about Four Pillars at fourpillarsuk.org and make a donation to their fundraiser at avivacommunityfund.co.uk/four-pillars-community-room

Volunteering at Four Pillars has given me the opportunity to connect with the community which is difficult to do living in such a rural area. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be of service and help provide the vital support services in the hub.

Four Pillars Volunteer

News 31 ACVO Aug 25 2021

I’m not sure how to write this or even begin, I guess I’ll start from a starting point between my need of four pillars and my own inner realisations.

When I first encountered Four Pillars I went from a toxic relationship to a relationship which was on both parties supposed to be a fling and a bit of a fun time with no feelings. Alas as these things tend to go, feelings got involved, fortunately it ended with the both of us being good friends.

Four Pillars had a one-to-one counselling service which allowed me to get back on my feet and to help mend myself and realise where I had previous trauma from past relationships.

I also came out as Non-Binary shortly afterwards, Four Pillars has been a stead fast pillar of emotional and physical support through this time, I question whether I would be here today if it had not been for the charity.

ACVO News 32 Aug 25 2021

"We provide lifechanging advice and support to adults, children and young people so that people with visible differences can lead the lives they choose free from discrimination and abuse" An interview with Head of Operations for Changing Faces in Scotland, Angela Harris.

News 33 ACVO Aug 25 2021

ACVO News 34 Aug 25 2021

Changing Faces was set up over 30 years ago by James Partridge who experienced life changing injuries in a car accident when he was 18.

We are is the leading charity for anyone with a mark, scar or condition that makes them look different. Nearly one in five people across the UK self-identify as having a visible difference such as a mark, scar or condition. We provide life-changing advice and support to adults, children and young people so that people with visible differences can lead the lives they choose free from discrimination and abuse.

At least 1.3 million children, young people and adults in the UK are estimated to have significant disfigurements, including 569,000 with facial disfigurement. They face multiple challenges. They are often vulnerable to isolation, loneliness, social anxiety and low self-esteem.

They can face staring, harassment, bullying and hate crime, experience lowered expectations in school, problems getting work and stereotyping in the media. COVID-19 has presented additional significant physical and mental health challenges to Scotland’s visible difference community.

Around half of our clients, including burns survivors and those with autoimmune diseases and cranio-facial conditions had to shield through lockdown.

One in three people say that they feel depressed, sad or anxious as a result of having a visible difference and almost a quarter say they feel self-conscious or embarrassed going out in public as a result of their visible difference.

Our aim is to promote inclusiveness and to provide our skin camouflage service to our clients to give them choice; our service focuses on how someone feels about their visible difference and how they would like us to help them.

"One in three people say that they feel depressed, sad or anxious as a result of having a visible difference and almost a quarter say they feel selfconscious or embarrassed going out in public as a result of their visible difference."

News 35 ACVO Aug 25 2021

The short film above explains what happens at a skin camouflage appointment .

As well as supporting individuals, you also work to change the narrative of the issue on a national scale and challenge media depictions of visible difference with the aim of ending appearance-related discrimination.

How has Changing Faces been working to achieve this?

A strong element of our work is through our advocacy and campaigning, striving for a world that treats everyone as equals.

Our campaigns focus on raising awareness and challenging society around what is perceived as normal. For instance thinking about how people with visible difference are depicted in media and films and how stereotypes can often be reinforced – even in childhood – through characters in film.

We work to raise awareness and break down these perceptions that everyone with a scar is perceived as a 'baddie' in a film and that all heroines or heroes are ‘beautiful’.

We also work closely with Police Scotland on addressing and calling out Hate Crime. Our most successful campaign ever was called #Visible Hate and included a very impactful short film sharing the voices of those affected.

It’s not ok that anyone should experience abuse – online or face to face – because of how they look.

Changing Faces has an established Skin Camouflage Service in Aberdeen.

Could you share some details about the service and the processes involved?

The Skin Camouflage service in Aberdeen has been around for many years and yet remains little known by the general population. The service is completely free. Hour long appointments can be booked through our website or by calling 0300 012 0275 and are delivered 1-1 with a trained practitioner. The service is currently based in central Aberdeen, but we are looking for new partners and venues to deliver our clinics to ensure that as many people as possible can access the service.

During the appointment the person will be colour skin matched and a ‘prescription’ will be written for specific products that can then be taken to the GP to be fulfilled. There is the opportunity to both have the products applied and be shown how to apply them using different techniques depending on skin texture, part of the body etc. The products are then ‘sealed’ and will be waterproof which can be incredibly important to many of our clients.

ACVO News 36 Aug 25 2021 Who can access the skin camouflage service you offer in Aberdeen?

The service is open to anyone over the age of 5 that has a visible difference anywhere on their body no matter how large or small this may appear to others. We see such a huge variety of people and conditions.

They include cancer patients with post surgery scarring adapting to the changes in their body; those in recovery from self harm who want to learn how to self manage the appearance of their scars; a wide variety of skin conditions including rosacea, acne, hyperpigmentation; birthmarks and port wine stains, both full body and facial; scars from trauma including burns and accidents and auto immune conditions including vitiligo.

We know that often those with a visible difference don’t feel they can or should seek support for their concerns whether these be practical or emotional. We don’t believe that is right and we provide a wide variety of services that can be used as and when needed by children, young people, adults and their families.

We try and provide support in lots of different mediums including an adult online forum, 1-1 counselling for adults and children, children's workshops, a telephone support line and information leaflets. If in any doubt please just call our information and support line on 0300 012 0275 and they can guide you through the options available.

Is the Skin Camouflage Service only for those based within Aberdeen City?

Our services currently run from Aberdeen, Fife, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Ayrshire and Arran. Anyone using the service can choose which service they attend based on their own needs and ability to travel.

"Absolutely fantastic first day, whilst we wish there wasn’t a need for the service, may the skin cam gods send in the referrals because a happier day at work I’ve never had. All three clients expressed awe at the venue and how much they felt pampered rather than at yet another clinical appointment. All three expressed the want and need of the service and the joy of being able to offer it again for me was immensely satisfying and frankly the boost I desperately needed with all the current Covid stresses.

"What the clients don’t know is how much the service actually gives back to us practitioners and I for one can’t think of a job I’d rather do and wish it could be full time" Feedback from Skin Camouflage Practitioner following the first clinic undertaken on July 15th following 15 months of inactivity

We also now offer an online consultation, which is not a full appointment (does not include a colour skin matching as this needs to be done in person) but can be incredibly helpful in chatting through concerns, techniques and potential products. We have seen clients from Orkney, Shetlands and across Aberdeenshire as well as those based in Aberdeen City.

How do people access the service?

It is important to say again that this service is completely free and can be used as many times as needed. Many people choose to attend once, some choose to come back again to learn more; maybe if there are changes to their skin to receive a second colour matching or if they need more help with application techniques. You can be referred by your GP or health care provider or you can self refer, both can be done online on our website.

News 37 ACVO Aug 25 2021

Many healthcare professionals are unaware of the service and we are doing everything we can to ensure that information is available in multiple formats.

If you are a healthcare provider or work in the community please contact us as we can provide further information and leaflets if needed.

We encourage people to engage with their GP or healthcare professional about the service as they will be issued with a prescription letter that can they can then take to their GP to obtain the products. Self referrals can also be done online What are your hopes for the service in the region going forward?

We know how wonderful this service is because our clients and practitioners tell us on a daily basis.

"I had a great session and was able to discuss my needs and match the product to my lifestyle and specific issues. The Practitioner really put me at ease and was very knowledgeable!"

(Skin Camouflage client) We want to ensure that anyone that has a need for support with any appearance related concerns knows how to contact us and that there is non judgemental help available.

In the past we have worked with an amazing local pharmacy partner who has been really supportive of the service by providing a venue for the clinics to run and local

support and knowledge. We are now hoping to extend and expand the service and work with partners to create increased accessibility to the service both in terms of new physical locations that are accessible to all, but also in terms of awareness and referrals into the service. We have amazing local practitioners based in Aberdeen with many years of experience who are waiting to help.

How can people find out more?

Our website holds all the information regarding how to book but if you would rather speak to someone you can call the support line on 0300 012 0275 or email our Scottish Co-ordinator Catriona on catrionak@changingfaces.org.uk .

We are always keen to hear from anyone affected as well as healthcare professionals and we can arrange demonstrations and talks to learn more about the service for those connected in providing healthcare interventions.

VOLUNTEERING

ACVO News 38 Aug 25 2021

Volunteering Latest from Mike Melvin and Volunteer Aberdeen Find out more at volunteeraberdeen.org.uk

Volunteer and be amazed at what you can do Volunteering is often referred to as the golden thread that connects everything that is good about our city together. Volunteers provide immense help in Aberdeen and volunteering is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

When you volunteer, as well as providing great help, you will have lots to gain from assisting too. These are just some of the ways you can benefit: Make a real difference for people and the community.

It is a fantastic addition to your CV and learning.

You can build your confidence and self-esteem.

Meet new people.

Try something different and gain valuable experience.

Feel more a part of your local community.

It's healthy.

Get a chance to express yourself and your ideas.

Have fun!

Also, if you are aged 25 years or under the further great news is that you can get recognition for any volunteering you are involved in/undertake through the Saltire Awards.

The Saltire Awards are national awards endorsed by the Scottish Government and delivered in each local authority area by Third Sector Interfaces (ACVO in Aberdeen) to recognise the marvellous contribution young people make volunteering and the achievements of young volunteers. Certificates are awarded in recognition for undertaking 10, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 500 hours of volunteering.

For more information and to search for volunteer opportunities across Aberdeen please visit volunteeraberdeen.org.uk If you are with an organisation which involves volunteers and ACVO can be of any assistance please contact: Mike.Melvin@acvo.org.uk

News 39 ACVO Aug 25 2021

VOLUNTEERING

Volunteer with your local community council and help make your community a better place

H

ave you ever asked yourself the

views of the community which involves

the Community Council area in which they

question “Why doesn’t someone do something about that?”

collating views from members of the community, including individuals, families and groups.

They discuss and negotiate solutions to local issues and concerns.

reside as a local government elector. The minimum age to stand for election as a Community Councillor is 16 years of age and we encourage young and older to get involved.

They attend meetings with relevant groups, liaise with City Councillors and officials.

When necessary they campaign on big issues of local concern.

You don’t need any special skills or

Well, you can start to bring about a change by joining your local Community Council. The elections for Community Councils in Aberdeen take place in October 2021 and this will a good opportunity to get involved.

What are Community Councils?

Community councils are set up by the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, established by Local Authorities as set out in the Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils. They have no executive powers although, being close to and part of the local community, they play a vital role in representing the views of the community to local authorities and other public bodies. The number of Community Councillors in each area depends on the population figures for the area; a larger population has more Councillors.

Role and Responsibilities The general purpose of Community Councils is to act as a voice for their local area. This will involve them articulating the views and concerns of local people in their area on a wide range of issues of public concern and make representations to the Local Authority, other public sector bodies and private agencies on matters within their sphere of interest.

Community Councils are a statutory consultee on all planning applications and licensing applications relating to liquor.

Members of the Community Council can also participate in City wide groups e.g.

Community Council Forum and Civic Forum to share ideas and discuss common issues.

How do they work?

They usually meet once a month to discuss the issues of current concern in their area, particularly major planning applications and steps to improve our local environment.

They contact and are contacted by relevant agencies to put forward the

Community Council Achievements Production and distribution of newsletters to keep the community informed Organising community gardens and floral displays Supporting local galas and festivals Setting up and managing websites and other social media Clean up activities for their area Securing funding for local projects Influencing planning and licensing decisions Campaigning on local issues e.g. road safety, roads maintenance Who can be a Community Councillor?

Community Council candidates must be named on the current electoral register for

experience. People who become Community Councillors should have an interest in their community and often begin with an interest in a specific issue such as youth activity provision, protecting the environment or the quality of local services.

Information Sessions Information sessions are being held via Microsoft Teams on the dates below 7pm Thursday 12 August 7pm Wednesday 18 August 2pm Tuesday 24 August 10am Monday 30 August Find Out more To find out more and to attend the sessions detailed above, please contact the Community Council Liaison Officer (CCLO), Karen Finch on 01224 522723 or email communitycouncils@aberdeencity.gov.uk for more information.

VOLUNTEERING

ACVO News 40 Aug 25 2021

Recent opportunity Collect forour childhood Thedonations latest from team. cancer awareness month We’re looking for volunteers who can represent Young Lives vs Cancer at our bucket collections in supermarkets across the UK through September. In return, you’ll get a warm fuzzy feeling, a huge sense of pride, and a big THANK YOU from the children and young people you’ll be supporting.

Doing bucket collections is fun and rewarding – especially when you do it with friends.

-Sign up now!

All you need to do is click on this link – https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk/join-our-fight/get-volunteering/volunteerthis-ccam/ – search for your nearest participating store and we will provide you with everything that you need.

If you have any questions, please contact our Supporter Engagement team at https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk/contact-us/ who will be happy to help.

Recent opportunity The latest from our –team.

Grampian Credit Union Directors & Supervisory Committee Members *Your Credit Union needs you……come and help shape the future of Grampian Credit Union!* We have vacancies for Non-Executive Directors, and members of our Supervisory Committee.

Information about the available roles, responsibilities and essential skills required for both roles can be accessed on our website at https://www.grampiancreditunion.co.uk/content.asp?section=25&bgc=&sbgc= Volunteering with us in these roles is rewarding and offers the satisfaction of knowing you are helping our Credit Union to grow, develop, and maintain a successful organisation for the common good. Moreover, you will develop and or hone transferable skills.

Want to know more about volunteering with us? Contact us via email – admin@grampiancreditunion.co.uk and we will be pleased to hear from you.

Also, would you (a member of Grampian Credit Union) like to nominate someone that you think would be interested in our roles?

Please contact us via email admin@grampiancreditunion.co.uk OR call us on 01224 561506.

Recent opportunity The latest from our team.

Cafe Helpers – Bonnymuir Green Community Trust Bonnymuir Green Community Trust is a thriving community owned green space.

We have a productive, managed community garden, a social hub and cafe, which is led, developed and sustained by local volunteers.

We encourage all members of the public to meet and share in a space that is accessible, providing the community with a mix of educational and social activities, encouraging fun, good health, wellbeing and sustainable living.

Bonny Café is a community café, run by volunteers at Bonnymuir Green Community Centre. We serve drinks, hot food and baked goods from 10.30 -1.30, takeaway and indoor table service. The café has recently increased its opening hours and is now running Friday to Sunday, so we are hoping to find new volunteers to support these extended opening times.

There are various roles within the café: Kitchen duties – cooking hot food, making up bacon/sausage rolls, washing up, loading dishwasher Front of house – taking orders and payments, serving, clearing tables, making teas/coffees Monitoring visitor numbers, meeting and greeting You will be given a warm welcome and all the help and support you need to learn the ropes. Bonnymuir Green is a fantastic place to be involved with and has really developed and grown since it opened to the public three years ago. There is no set commitment – we appreciate any time that you have to give!

For further information please contact Liz Brown, Bonnymuir Green Community Trust Centre Coordinator at email: centrecoordinator.bgct@gmail.com or tel.: 07799 206258.

News 41 ACVO Aug 25 2021

VOLUNTEERING

ABDNCommunity Volunteering Programme The ABDNCommunity Volunteering Programme connects not-for-profit and charitable organisations with current students to assist with a defined project or range of activities via a voluntary role.

Organisations can choose the length, timing, location and hours to suit their needs

How can volunteers help your organisation? Students can help on defined projects for a defined period of time, or can help out more generally across activities within your organisation on an ongoing basis.

Types of volunteering opportunities: The location (including virtual), the hours (parttime/full time) and the length of the volunteering opportunity is entirely flexible to suit the needs of the organisation. During term time, we recommend volunteers contribute a maximum of 20 hours per week to balance with their studies.

How our team can support organisations: We provide structured support for organisations in designing the volunteering role, establishing role requirements in terms of required skills and experience and targeted advertising of the opportunity to ensure suitable students apply. You will be supported throughout the advertising process and have the option of us collating applications on your behalf.

Which organisations can participate? We welcome enquiries from all charities and not-for-profit organisations who wish to gain access to our diverse and talented student community. We welcome opportunities to connect with regional, national and global organisations.

How are students supported in their volunteering? Alongside their volunteering, students can work through a pathway of skills planning, development and reflection activities designed to help them maximise the benefit of the opportunity for themselves and the organisation.

Is funding available? A limited number of bursaries (worth £436 each) are available to volunteers to help towards their expenses and ensure opportunities are open to all students, particularly those who might not have previously considered volunteering as a positive way to develop skills and experience. This bursary can be advertised in association with suitable volunteering opportunities to encourage applications from our diverse student community.

Find out more at abdn.ac.uk

FUNDING

ACVO News 42 Aug 25 2021

Funding Funding news and highlights from ACVO Funding Officer, Claire Shaw

Community Capacity and Resilience Fund applications close September 10th

The Community Capacity and Resilience Fund (CCRF) from Scottish Government aims to support local, community-based organisations with small grants of up to £8,000 to deliver activities that help people mitigate the impact of welfare reform.

To be eligible for a grant, organisations must have had an income of less than £200,000 in their last financial year. Grants can be spent over 12 months and the aim is a simple way to access funding from the Scottish Government that can trial new ideas and capacity build organisations so they are prepared to access larger funding pots from elsewhere.

CCRF will support organisations to try creative approaches that mitigate the impact of welfare reform. The following are ways in which that might be achieved, promoting social inclusion, combatting inequality or increasing partnership working.

The Community Capacity & Resilience Fund presents an opportunity for organisations to develop new ways of working to mitigate the effects of welfare reform, combat poverty and social inequality, promote social inclusion and have a preventative impact in their communities.

Previous rounds of the Community Capacity & Resilience Fund have delivered a broad range of successful projects – all unique in their delivery but aligned in their focus. This new round is launching with the coronavirus pandemic as a backdrop and applications will therefore need to develop approaches that will ensure continuity of provision and a blended approach to service delivery.

Applications should be able to demonstrate: How they will help bring organisations together in partnership to support people How they will develop people’s ability to prevent themselves from reaching crisis point Who will be supported by the activity What impact the activity will have on people locally in mitigating welfare reform, and on the way in which the organisation operates The aim of the fund is to support organisations where there currently isn’t the capacity or resources, therefore, unfortunately, the scheme cannot fund any existing work, core costs or management fees.

More information and FAQs about the fund can be found on the SCVO website at scvo.scot/funding/community-capacity-resilience-fund

News 43 ACVO Aug 25 2021

FUNDING

We Are Here Scotland Announce Creators' Fund We Are Here Scotland (WAHS) is delighted to announce that applications for We Are Here Scotland’s Creators’ Fund are now live. The fund aims to provide practical funding opportunities for Black and PoC artists and creatives across Scotland, along with one-to-one mentorship from experienced industry professionals.

WAHS launched the Creators’ Fund to provide BPoC artists and creatives with funding opportunities that will help them progress in their professional development. On 9 June, the Creators’ Fund reached its £6000 target and we are now inviting applications from eligible individuals. The fund will not only provide financial support, but also practical career advice, support and guidance.

For the first round of the Creators’ Fund, we will be selecting 7 creators who will each receive £500. The second round will take place in Spring 2022.

Find out more and apply at weareherescotland.com/creators-fund

"As the founder of We Are Here Scotland. I'm very

“The Creators’ Fund, crowdsourced by members of our

thankful to everyone who has supported us in achieving

community and our allies, is an important opportunity

our Creators’ Fund target. This truly is a very unique

for us to put money in the pockets of BPoC creatives

time in which we can continue the momentum to

across Scotland. Ica took the initiative to set up the

celebrate a variety of creatives in our community, and I

fund to support 12 Black and people of colour creators

look forward to seeing all the projects that will evolve

and we have surpassed our target. There is so much

from the fund and hope that this is the start of real

more work to do, but this fund is a start and I look

change across Scotland's creative industries”

forward to getting to know the wonderful creators

Founder and Co-Director, Ica Headlam

selected to receive funding who normally fall through the ether of any other funding available to creatives across the UK.” Co-Director Briana Pegado

Each successful applicant will receive: £500 in funding One dedicated mentor providing mentoring over the duration of the fund Media coverage through WAHS The closing date for the Creators’ Fund is: (31 October 2021 at 11.59pm GMT) Please note that the Creators’ Fund is for individuals who identify as Black or a person of colour Be aged 18 years old and above Be living in Scotland Be studying or practicing as an artist or creative in Scotland. E.g. enrolled on a college or university course, informally trained as an artist, with an artist studio, or sharing/showing their work on a public platform including social media.

Please note that you do not have to have your work displayed on a public platform

FUNDING

ACVO News 44 Aug 25 2021

University of Aberdeen launches Local Community Fund The University of Aberdeen is inviting local groups to apply for funding of up to £1,000 to help fund community projects and support the area in its recovery from the pandemic.

The University of Aberdeen Local Community Fund is open for applications from groups who may be looking for a funding boost to develop community activities, projects or events as part of the University’s commitment to support local communities in Aberdeen.

The Community Fund welcomes applications for funding of between £100 and £1,000 from local community groups and not-for-profit organisations for projects and community activities that will benefit people living or working in the following areas: Tillydrone, Old Aberdeen, Seaton, Woodside, Stockethill, Ashgrove, George Street, Froghall, Powis and Sunnybank.

The aim of the fund is to assist local groups with the delivery of projects that address issues including mental health and wellbeing, skills development, food and fuel poverty, increasing resilience and using community spaces to increase physical activity.

Professor George Boyne, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University said: “Since 1495, the University of Aberdeen has been open to all and dedicated to the pursuit of truth in the service of others. We still have that purpose.

“As part of our 2040 strategy we continue to look outwards and build partnerships with individuals, communities and organisations in the public, private and voluntary sectors. The disbursement of the Local Community Fund will reinforce that commitment by connecting with our friends and neighbours to help build a resilient community.”

Eligible organisations can apply to the University of Aberdeen Community Small Grant Fund by completing the application form which can be found hereor by emailing communityfund@abdn.ac.uk.

Completed application forms should be submitted to communityfund@abdn.ac.uk by 5pm on 30 September 2021.

Electronic submissions are preferred but hard copy applications will also be accepted in advance of the deadline, please contact communityfund@abdn.ac.uk or visit the website for more information.

News 45 ACVO Aug 25 2021

FUNDING

Tesco Community Grants

Tesco Community Grants fund thousands of local community projects across the UK, helping to fight holiday hunger, tackle mental health, support young people, host community events and much more.

Who can apply?

Tesco Community Grants support local good causes that focus on helping children and families and tackling food poverty. Grants will be awarded to voluntary or community organisations (including registered charities/companies), schools, health bodies (e.g. Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs), NHS Hospital Trust, Foundation Trust), Parish/Town Councils, local authorities and social housing providers.

This list is not exhaustive and there will be many other types of organisations that will be funded.

Eligible projects Examples of eligible projects with a focus on supporting children and families could be; a local school needing food for a children’s breakfast club, a voluntary organisation working with families to run holiday clubs, a charity supporting young people with specialist advice to manage mental health, a brownie or scout group needing new tents, or a youth sports club needing new equipment, a family advice centre wanting to recruit more volunteers, or a local friends of a park group wanting to develop a new toddler area.

How to apply Tesco Community Grants is administered by Groundwork and projects can apply online at: tescocommunitygrants.org.uk. If you are a Tesco customer or colleague, you can nominate a cause that you’d like to see supported and we’ll contact them to encourage them to apply, you can also do this online.

Awards are available up to £1,500.

ACVO News 46 Aug 25 2021

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

Health & Social Care Updates Do you work with people who feel vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19?

NHS Grampian would like to hear what concerns our communities have about COVID-19 as restrictions ease and we move into autumn and winter.

Help to develop the NHS Grampian Plan for the Future 2022-2028 NHS Grampian is looking forward to the future and planning how to rebuild healthcare services after a challenging time during COVID-19.

Marlene Westland, Public Involvement Officer with NHS Grampian said "We have had to work very differently in the last 16 months to continue providing care to those who have needed it most. We are extremely proud of the hard work and efforts of our staff, and also grateful for the support the people of Grampian have shown to us throughout this time.

"We want to be able to rebuild local services with you as well as for you. To do this we need to know what matters to you. We need to learn from what has worked well during the pandemic, and also find out what people liked and valued from health services before.

During July and August, we have been engaging and working with groups across Grampian to gather people’s views and there is a short online questionnaire for you to complete.

"There is still time to take part up to 31 August and we look forward to hearing from you."

The questionnaire can be accessed at https://bit.ly/3qtVKKU If you would like the information in other formats and languages, please contact 01224 552245 or email gram.involve@nhs.scot More information is available at: https://www.nhsgrampian.org/strategy2022-2028

Marjorie Johnston from NHS Grampian said "We know there are people who still feel vulnerable to the effects of the virus. This may be for a variety of reasons, for example they live with underlying health conditions or they care for people who are vulnerable.

We would like to know if there is anything practical we can do to help."

Please get in touch with Marjorie at Marjorie.johnston@nhs.scot to find out more.

News 47 ACVO Aug 25 2021

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

Aberdeen’s Third Sector

Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum ACVO host regular fora to support and inform the third sector, particularly as we continue to make our way through this current crisis. So much has changed and continues to do so at such a pace, that it can be difficult to keep up. More changes are to come and things are likely to remain in flux for a while yet.

Mental health and wellbeing continues to be a very common and recurring theme. As this topic is so far reaching and multi-layered and affects so many aspects of our work, ACVO are continuing to host regular third sector forum meetings on the theme of Mental Health & Wellbeing.

We are inviting our third sector colleagues to our next one.

It is to be held on Thursday 26th August 2021 from 10.00 am – 12.00pm, where you can: Learn about the latest key developments at ACH&SCP ( Aberdeen City Health & Social Care Partnership) and CPA (Community Planning Aberdeen) Take part in a themed discussion on ‘ Hoarding & Self Neglect ‘ – which will include details from a Serious Case Review, specific multi-agency guidance and a Q&A session.

This forum will be held over Zoom, book your place here.

An agenda will be issued nearer the time.

Meanwhile if you require any further information, then please don’t hesitate to contact Susan Morrison tel: 07814 896676 email: susan.morrison@acvo.org.uk

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

ACVO News 48 Aug 25 2021

Vaccinations now available for young people with learning disabilities Children and young people aged 12-17 from key groups to be offered COVID-19 vaccine The Scottish Government has announced that children and

or underlying conditions that place them at higher risk

young people with certain conditions are to be offered the

of serious COVID-19 (that were not 16 at the time of the

Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, in line with the latest advice

previous invite for all 16 and 17 years olds in March 2021)

from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and

Young people aged 12 years and above who live in the

Immunisation (JCVI). The aim is to vaccinate this group of

same household of persons (adults or children) who are

young people before the majority of schools return on the

immunosuppressed (the Scottish Government

16th of August.

previously invited over 16s who are household

In line with the latest JCVI advice COVID-19 vaccinations will now be offered to children and young people who are from key groups and are between 12 to 17 years.

Vaccinations will be offered to: 12 to 15 year olds with severe neuro-disabilities 12 to 15 year olds with Down’s syndrome 12 to 15 year olds with underlying conditions resulting

contacts of those on the shielding list).

Children and young people with specific conditions and their parents or carers will be contacted directly by their local Health Boards via letter, phone call or by their regular healthcare professional. The household contacts of the wider group of people with immunosuppression will be contacted by a letter from the National Vaccination

in immunosuppression

Programme.

12 to 15 year olds with profound and multiple learning

As Scotland does not have a national Learning Disability

disabilities (PMLD)

Register, the Scottish Government is inviting everyone

12 to 15 year olds with severe learning disabilities

with a diagnosed learning disability for vaccination. This

12 to 17 year olds who have a diagnosed

does not include people with learning difficulties such as

learning/intellectual disability (mild or moderate).

dyslexia or ADHD.

Vaccinations are also being offered to: 16 year olds who have any of these above conditions

More information can be found on the NHS Inform website.

News 49 ACVO Aug 25 2021

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

Mindfulness Meditation Mondays are back!

NHS Grampian and Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership are pleased to announce the recommencement of the weekly sessions held in collaboration with Varapunya Meditation Centre After the long ‘suspension’ of face-to-face guided Mindfulness Mondays due to COVID, the team behind the sessions are pleased to announce they will restart but at a new location. Find new ways to calm that mind, cope with anxiety & stress, sleep better, become a different ‘you’.

When? – the last Monday of each month - 27th September; 25th October; 29th November Session1: 12.00 noon to 12.45pm Session 2: 1.00pm to 1.45pm Where? – CREDO café, John Street (next to the Greek restaurant) in the upstairs main hall.

With who? Ven. Ajahn Sujan, an experienced Buddhist monk from Nepal and other practitioners from the Varapunya Meditation Centre.

Everyone welcome but booking is essential so that they can gauge numbers.

Please confirm your attendance each month by emailing: graham.fleming@nhs.net

VACANCIES

Vacancies Latest opportunities from the 3rd sector

find out more and apply

find out more and apply

ACVO News 50 Aug 25 2021

News 51 ACVO Aug 25 2021

VACANCIES

find out more and apply

find out more and apply

VACANCIES

find out more and apply

find out more and apply

ACVO News 52 Aug 25 2021

News 53 ACVO Aug 25 2021

VACANCIES

find out more and apply at careers.vsa.org.uk

find out more and apply

VACANCIES

find out more and apply

Let ACVO help you to find your new team member Get in touch with andrew.davidson@acvo.org.uk to find out how to advertise your vacancy on our site and in ACVO News.

ACVO News 54 Aug 25 2021

be part of

the collective voice of the Third Sector in Aberdeen

ACVO are pleased to offer a

year’s free membership to existing and new members.

This offer runs until the end of 2021, and your full year’s membership runs from when you sign up.

apply online now at a acvo.org.uk/membership We are stronger with you behind us.