ACVO News December 2022

ACVO NEWS

NEWS FROM ABERDEEN'S THIRD SECTOR

JustTransition PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING FUND

Public vote now open! vote for your favourite environmentally friendly projects happening in Aberdeen!

Read details of all 22 projects and find out how you can have your say on p.4-9

DECEMBER | 2022

acvo.org.uk

ACVO News

CONTENTS

10 - A look back on our ACVO AGM 2022

December 2022

24 - Aberdeen Science Centre to host festive workshops

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36 - An interview with Somebody Cares

4 ACVO Updates 16 News from you and other networks 40 Volunteering The latest from Mike Melvin and Volunteer Aberdeen 44 Volunteering Opportunities 48 Funding The latest funding news and opportunities

P.30

ABERLOUR FUTURES: AN INTERVIEW WITH DECLAN HOSKINS Not on the mailing list to receive ACVO News Direct to your inbox every fortnight? Sign up here.

50 Vacancies Latest opportunities from the third sector in Aberdeen and beyond

Scottish Charity No: SC036845

ACVO News

ACVO UPDATES

December 2022

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JustTransition PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING FUND

Vote now open for environmentally friendly projects happening in Aberdeen!

57North Hacklab £15,950

Education | Green Energy

Cleaner energy is a powerful way to combat climate change and reduce emissions. Our project is to showcase and educate local communities and individuals about off-grid, decentralised energy harvesting using solar panels.

Aberdeen Methodist Church £45,000

Energy Efficient Buildings

A warm welcome needs a warm building! Through the installation of secondary double glazing and the insulation of the roof space in our inspiring, but chilly granite building, we will reduce carbon emissions and redirect funds from paying for energy to caring for people.

Black Cat (Aberdeen) CIC T/A Krakatoa £46,935

Energy Efficient Buildings

We plan to convert the space above Krakatoa into low-cost accommodation for touring musicians booked to perform here and at other local music venues. Funding will purchase sustainable sheep’s wool insulation, along with mechanical ventilation & heat recovery systems to keep our costs low.

Cornhill Community Association £16,625

Community Green Space

Help us kickstart our wonderful Community Garden in Cornhill/Stockethill and give residents the opportunity to spend more time outdoors, connect with nature, grow their own food, improve their health and wellbeing, and instil a sense of pride in their community whilst enabling residents to develop stronger ties to their area.

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ACVO News

ACVO UPDATES

December 2022

The Just Transition Participatory Budgeting Fund is an opportunity for you to have your say about how the North East of Scotland transitions to Net Zero.

With £333,333 up for grabs, non-profit organisations across Aberdeen City have applied for funding for a fantastic range of environmentally friendly projects.

Every citizen with an Aberdeen City postcode can vote for 10 of the 22 projects listed here

Friends of Westfield Park £10,400

Community Green Space | Education

The Friends of Westfield Park are seeking funding for storage to hold our tools and equipment (with a “green roof”), gazebos for holding community events in all weathers; and interpretive panels & signage to help people identify and learn about the wildflowers and wildlife in the park

Garthdee Field Allotment £20,789

Community Green Space | Education | Young People

In the Family Food: Fresh and Frugal project, volunteers from Garthdee Field Allotments will work with Kaimhill Primary School pupils to grow and cook their own vegetables, providing tasty, inexpensive, and healthy meals for themselves and their families.

Greyhope Bay £11,000

Education | Recycling

Help Greyhope Bay be a zero-waste to landfill visitor attraction and keep Aberdeen's favourite dolphin viewing site litter free! Your vote will help upgrade our facility to support our zero-waste ambition that aims to teach better habits to protect our precious marine environment.

St Machar Academy £9,000

Education | Community Green Space | Young People | Wildlife

We want to make St Machar Academy a biodiverse and naturefriendly space and involve our young people in protecting and studying the wildlife.

ACVO News

ACVO UPDATES

December 2022

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Somebody Cares £36,550

Greener Transport

As our services are more needed than ever, we want to do our bit to use sustainable and renewable energy while serving our community by changing our fleet to electric vans.

Aberdeen University Student’s Association £50,000

Greener Transport | Disabilities

A just transition needs to give everyone an opportunity to participate, and that includes people with disabilities and/ or specific mobility requirements. Expanding our free bike hire scheme to include e-bikes and accessible bikes will make it relevant to more students, while further reducing transport emissions.

Alcohol and Drugs Action £29,000

Greener Transport

‘Sharp Response’ provides a daily mobile crisis outreach service targeted to those alcohol/drug users deemed to be at highest risk. The service goes to the individual wherever they are, rather than waiting for the individual to come to the service and so we are requesting funds for an electric car to make our service more sustainable.

Aberdeen Science Centre £39,500

Greener Transport | Education

We propose to purchase and kit-out an electric vehicle as an interactive mobile Climate Change exhibit, along with graphics to explain the benefits of switching to electric and illustrate the reduction in our carbon footprint.

Fountain of Love £50,000

Greener Transport |Young People

We provide transport to enable people to take part in activities that they would not otherwise be able to access. In order to continue to provide these services we need to transition from our fossil-fuelled and carbon dioxide releasing vehicles to electric vehicles so that we can contribute to curbing emissions.

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ACVO News

ACVO UPDATES

December 2022

Bonnymuir Green £32,415

Community Green Space | Education

Bonnymuir Green Community Trust exists to provide an inclusive space with a purpose of growing fruit and veg for community use in a sustainable environment. This project will transform an outbuilding into a functional and educational space, delivering requested workshops to all ages of the community, and beyond, on upcycling and fixing household items.

Camphill Wellbeing Trust £38,053.95

Greener Transport | Education

We need your support to buy an electric vehicle to transport disadvantaged people, including those with mental and physical ill health, to our COMPASS project so they can access therapeutic gardening, cooking classes and skills development opportunities.

FACEYOUTH £45,616.96

Energy Efficient Buildings | Young People

FACEYOUTH Centre is now used as a community hub for most groups; the grant will turn a cool drafty building into a warm welcoming centre for FACEYOUTH activities.

North East Sensory Services £33,565

Greener Transport | Older People | Young People

Our people carrier transports our service users to the groups and activities which we provide – particularly the children and young people of our Young People’s Sensory Service (YPSS). The funding requested would enable us to replace our current people carrier, now seven years old, with a similar but electric vehicle.

The Allotment Market Stall £13,590

Community Green Space | Disabilities | Young People | Older People

We wish to install a self composting toilet at Grove Nursery for all nursery users. This toilet means that older people, children, people with mobility issues and people with specific conditions will be able to use the site as currently there is no toilet provision at all.

JustTransition PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING FUND

ACVO UPDATES

ACVO News December 2022

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JustTransition PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING FUND

The Bridge of Don Brigade £2000

Education

We run regular craft activities and STEM based projects. We would like to source and replace our current craft stock with more eco-friendly paper, glues, glitter and show how this will reduce our impact on the planet.

Tillydrone Community Council £50,000

Greener Transport | Disabilities | Older People | Young People

We are hopeful to purchase an electric minibus for use in the community of Tillydrone. We aim to provide services for vulnerable/disabled adults/children, elderly folks & low income families.

Aberdeen Mosque & Islamic Centre £35,000

Greener Transport | Energy Efficient Buildings | Green Energy

The aim of the project is to improve the environmental footprint of the mosque and its congregants by installing water fountains, bike stands, a bike repair station, an electric car charger, and district heating on 2nd floor.

9th Aberdeen Scout Group £30,000

Young People | Energy Efficient Buildings | Greener Transport

The 9th Aberdeen Scout Group is a youth led organisation in the Broomhill area of Aberdeen. Our members are passionate about improving our impact on the climate. They want our Scout Group to head towards Net Zero and be the Scout Group with the lowest climate impact in Aberdeen!

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ACVO News

December 2022

ACVO UPDATES

JustTransition PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING FUND

Vote now and have your say!

The Just Transition Participatory Budgeting Fund is an opportunity for you to have your say about how the North East of Scotland transitions to Net Zero.

With £333,333 up for grabs, non-profit organisations across Aberdeen City have applied for funding for a fantastic range of environmentally friendly projects.

Voting closes 5pm on Friday 16th December 2022 Visit acvo.org.uk/vote to find out more Everyone with an Aberdeen postcode has 10 votes and can decide on the outcome of the fund, you must use all of your votes so choose your top 10 favourite projects from the list of 22!

ACVO AGM 2022

ACVO UPDATES

ACVO News 10 December 2022

On November 15th, ACVO brought members of Aberdeen's third sector together for a celebration of the achievements of the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund with our interactive film exhibition at the Anatomy Rooms

In year one of the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund, ACVO distributed £770,000 to over 80 projects across Aberdeen City.

To highlight the success of the fund, ACVO hosted a free exhibition at The Arkade Gallery in Aberdeen’s Anatomy Rooms to showcase the work of 10 fund recipients: Touch of Love Outreach; Greyhope Bay; The Allotment Market Stall; Citymoves Dance Agency; Street Soccer Scotland; Danestone Community Centre; Aberdeen Taexali Rugby Club; The Bread Maker; Future Choices and Aberdeen Science Centre.

The exhibition launched as part of our AGM and remained open to the public for the days that followed - it was fantastic to see so many visitors attend and share in the achievements of our sector.

The exhibition used AR technology to trigger films which featured first-hand accounts of how projects supported by the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund are making a huge positive impact to lives and communities across Aberdeen.

If you missed the exhibition you can catch it at again at Aberdeen Central Library until Wed 9th December.

News 11 ACVO December 2022

ACVO UPDATES

ACVO UPDATES

ACVO News December 2022

Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund to give community of interest the power to decide

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News 13 ACVO December 2022

ACVO UPDATES

Year two of the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund opened in October. With an overwhelming response, ACVO has already funded over forty community-based initiatives that promote good mental health and wellbeing within the adult population.

New for year two is the encouragement by the Scottish Government to explore innovative approaches to distributing grants that allow space for new projects to be funded. ACVO is rising to this challenge and are ringfencing £100,000 of the fund to be awarded by a community commissioning process.

So what is Community Commissioning?

Community Commissioning gives people the power to use their local knowledge and personal experience to decide what happens in their community and across the city. This people-first approach encourages partnership working across the third and public sectors to create sustainable, inclusive, and communitypowered initiatives. By empowering local people to put forward their ideas, community commissioning ensures that the issues affecting communities are prioritised and the things that really matter to people are supported.

Who can get involved?

ACVO and the Scottish Government recognise that the pandemic had a significant negative impact on the mental wellbeing of older people and unpaid carers. To pilot Community Commissioning, a panel is currently being formed that will be made up of those with lived experience and organisations that support older people and unpaid carers. The purpose of the panel is to explore the issues relating to mental health and wellbeing that are impacting upon their community and to put forward a list of priorities.

ACVO’s Partnership Group (responsible for all matters relating to the fund in Aberdeen City), will invite Expressions of Interest from 3rd sector organisations, informed by the list of priorities identified by those with lived experience. Applicants propose projects that align with these priorities.

Where multiple organisations are proposing to respond to the same priorities, ACVO will facilitate “match making” between applicants with the intention of avoiding duplication and promoting joined up thinking. In this way, we hope to achieve a wider impact.

Finally, the panel will select their preferred projects to receive funding from the pot of £100,000.

Interested in getting involved?

Please get in touch by emailing Bea Dawkins – bea.dawkins@acvo.org.uk. She would love to hear from people interested in becoming panel members due to their own lived experience or organisations who would potentially be interested in receiving the list of priorities that have been identified and submitting an expression of interest.

Although community commissioning has been successfully adopted across many regions of the UK, we believe it is the first time such a process has been trialled in Aberdeen City. ACVO is excited to see how it is received and whether it could lead the way to ensure future funding gets to where it is most needed.

Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund

ACVO UPDATES

ACVO News December 2022

*IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT*

Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund Level 3 Applications no longer running in Aberdeen as previously planned Due to the overwhelming response and the deluge of eligible Level 1 and Level 2 applications that have been received to the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund since it opened in October, ACVO has had to make the difficult decision not to run the Level 3 application process in order to adhere to the guidance set out by the funder [The Scottish Government]; that being to ensure that a significant proportion of smaller value grants below £10,000 are awarded. Should more funding become available (as in 2021), ACVO will re-evaluate this decision.

If organisations are planning to submit a Level 1 or Level 2 application, ACVO would strongly advise that you do this as soon as possible. Applications will be assessed in date order. It is envisaged that the Fund will potentially close at the end of this week, given the number of applications that have been submitted over the last few days and the amount of funding that is now available to distribute.

We understand that this will come as disappointing news for many organisations. The need for funding to support mental health and wellbeing within our community has increased exponentially over the last year.

If your organisation is in the process of or was planning to submit a Level 3 application and would like support in identifying other potential grant funding, please do contact ACVO’s Funding Officer, Claire Shaw. Just complete the following form, and Claire will get in touch with you via email to arrange an online appointment https://acvo.jotform.com/tables/221924549129966

Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund

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NEWS

ACVO News 16 December 2022

News from you and other networks

Langstane Housing Association partners with local organisations to provide support over winter Langstane Housing Association is proud to announce its partnership with three established local organisations, in a bid to help communities and support their tenants through these challenging times including the cost of living and energy crisis.

L-R: Danielle Flecher-Horn - Co Founder of AberNecessities, Lawrence Johnston - Co CEO of Scarf, Helen Gauld – Chief Executive of Langstane Housing Association and Fiona Rae - Chief Executive of CFINE.

News 17 ACVO December 2022

NEWS

AberNecessities, along with Scarf and CFINE, are working in partnership with Langstane Housing Association this winter.

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angstane has partnered with Scarf to spearhead its efforts in distributing the £61,000 fund which was awarded by the Scottish Government Fuel Support Fund and is being administered by the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations which encourages a targeted approach to distribution of the fund.

Langstane will work with Scarf on a two phase project to assist tenants struggling with the ongoing rises in energy costs. Phase one will see essential assistance provided to 105 households throughout the northeast with their capped gas supplies.

Followed by phase two which will see Scarf holding drop-in sessions for Langstane tenants who can obtain free energy advice and homevisits.

Scarf is an Aberdeen social enterprise that specialises in free and impartial energy-saving advice to help people lower their fuel bills and carbon emissions.

In addition to the services offered from Scarf, Langstane are delighted to announce its partnership with

AberNecessities who provide disadvantaged families with the essential and basic necessities that no child should go without.

AberNecessities said “We operate on a referral basis, accepting applications from our network of brilliant professionals across the health, social care and education systems. We know the professionals are best placed to meet the needs and provide the emotional support to the families we support, while we provide the physical items. Our referral system allows us to distribute items fairly and efficiently to families who need them most.”

Langstane Housing Association is also currently in discussions with CFINE regarding a referral process for its customers to ensure they can access not only food but the breadth of other services CFINE can offer.

CFINE is the delivery partner operating FareShare Scotland regionally within seven local authority areas across the north of Scotland. They supply over 300 charity and community groups with surplus and donated food.

Langstane Housing Association’s chief executive, Helen Gauld, said “We are truly delighted to be able to join forces with three very wellrespected organisations in the north east. It is vital our combined services work toward helping those who are most vulnerable due to the current cost of living and energy crisis.

Of the families living in our homes, 32% are in arrears of more than one month and many of these families will require support from Scarf, AberNecessities and CFINE to avoid crisis this winter. On top of this we have a number of other customers who are already in arrears and are feeling the pressure of this challenging economic climate and we want to create new ways to help our customers and communities with the things that matter to them most.

These new partnerships are the first step in achieving this.’’

NEWS

ACVO News 18 December 2022

Free minibus Hellmann Worldwide every Saturday from Aberdeen Logistics named headline to HMP & YOI sponsor of the Big Hop Trail Grampian Clan Cancer Support has announced Hellmann Worldwide Logistics as headline sponsor for its art trail in 2023, with only six weeks to go for the final ten sculptures to be claimed by local businesses.

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From Saturday 3rd December, Action for Children will be offering free transport to and from Aberdeen for all families attending children’s visit on Saturdays at HMP & YOI Grampian.

This will be in partnership with Central Coaches where a free minibus will be provided.

Pick up time will be 8:30am at the Guild Street bus stop (outside Soprano Hotel) in Aberdeen.

The minibus will then take families to the FCHH, a purpose built building managed by Action for Children, located in the front of HMP&YOI Grampian.

The FCHH is a safe and welcoming

he leading north-east cancer charity, in partnership with Wild in Art, will exhibit 40 spectacular hare sculptures across the north-east, Moray, Shetland and Orkney next year in The Big Hop Trail.

Businesses across Clan’s geography have already sponsored 30 of the sculptures for the project which follows the Light the North Trail, which raised £325,000 for the charity in 2021.

Hellmann has secured one of two available headline sponsor opportunities for the project, entitling the worldwide logistics company to two six-foot hare sculptures in the main trail and two mini hare sculptures to be decorated by local schools.

Hellmann will further support the project by storing the forty hare

installations at its Dyce headquarters before they are put on public display from July to September next year.

Kevin Gaw, Hellmann’s Branch Manager, said: “As cancer sadly becomes more prevalent – we will all be touched by it directly or indirectly which is why at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics we stand alongside Clan in the support they provide to those impacted by the illness.

It is our privilege to be a headline sponsor of this fantastic trail which helps raise much needed awareness and funds.”

Sculpture sponsors from the 2021 trail including DC Thomson, The Good Sleep Co, Cable Solutions, Colin Lawson, Oldmeldrum Town

place where you can access information about the services provided to support you and your family.

Departure time will then be 12pm from the FCHH. For more information, please call the booking line at 01779 485640 or the FCHH at 01779 485829.

It is our privilege to be a headline sponsor of this fantastic trail which helps raise much needed awareness and funds.

News 19 ACVO December 2022

NEWS

L-R: Teresa Bremner (Clan’s sculpture trail project manager), Danny Burnett (Hellmann’s Commercial Manager), Kevin Gaw (Hellmann’s Branch Manager, Aberdeen).

Centre Regeneration Group, North Star Shipping and Aberdeen Performing Arts have signed up again to secure a bespoke sculpture to be featured on the trail from July to September next year.

Phil Anderson Financial Services has also signed up to be the official T-shirt sponsor for the project which marks Clan’s 40th anniversary.

Local artists will work on the hares to create unique designs and identities for each sculpture with the artwork sold at auction at the end of the project, funding vital support services provided by Clan Cancer Support.

Businesses have until the end of December to secure the remaining

10 sculptures before the artist selection process begins.

Teresa Bremner, Clan’s sculpture trail project manager, said: “There’s been a lot of excitement and interest since we launched The Big Hop Trail earlier this year and we’re delighted to see so many sponsors – old and new – sign up for their own sculpture to be featured.

“The Big Hop Trail is a muchanticipated event which will allow the public to freely access culture while celebrating and exploring our beautiful region, making it a unique and very creative sponsorship opportunity for businesses to engage with the local community.

“We’re incredibly grateful to

everyone who has sponsored a hare so far. There are now only ten very special sculptures available, and we’d encourage anyone interested to contact us to find out how they can be part of this legacy and help Clan to support people affected by cancer.”

For more information about the trail and to find out about sponsorship opportunities, please email thebighop@clancancersupport.org

ACVO News 22 December 2022

NEWS

Denis Law Legacy Trust's Kiana Coutts nominated for Scottish Sports Awards 2022 Denis Law Legacy Trust’s Outreach Development Officer, Kiana Coutts has been nominated as a finalist for The Scottish Sports Awards 2022: Community Hero category.

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outts was nominated for her instrumental role in shaping and delivering Denis Law Legacy Trust's

Stronger Families Inside Out and CLUB 10 programmes.

Stronger Families Inside Out aims to strengthen relationships between inmates at HMP & YOI Grampian and their families, through sport and creative activities. The free-to-access sessions take place during children’s visits at HMP & YOI Grampian. They are delivered in partnership with Stronger Families as well as The Scottish Prison Service and Action For Kids. The programme Stronger Families Inside Out is funded by Children In Need and was commended in Scottish Parliament earlier this year.

On her nomination Kiana Coutts said “Being nominated for this award was

a huge surprise and is an honour for both myself and the Denis Law Legacy Trust.

All partners involved have contributed to the success of the Stronger Families Inside Out and CLUB 10 initiatives and it is a

Kiana Coutts, Outreach Development Officer.

privilege every day to support the programme participants.”

Mark Williams, Chief Operating Officer at Denis Law Legacy Trust, nominated Coutts for the national award saying “All of us at Denis Law Legacy Trust are incredibly proud of Kiana and the work she has done.

Stronger Families Inside Out and CLUB 10 both play a very important part in our charity's work and ongoing efforts to enhance young people's lives. We have seen incredibly positive engagements and both these initiatives make such a real

"All of us at Denis Law Legacy Trust are incredibly proud of Kiana and the work she has done."

difference to families impacted by imprisonment.

This positive work wouldn’t have happened without Kiana’s drive, passion and commitment.

Nothing is too much for Kiana when it comes to supporting these families and this award is testament to all her hard work and efforts” The Scottish Sports Awards 2022 bring people together who have made a significant impact in the world of sport. Other attendees on the night include athletes Eilish McColgan and Duncan Scott.

The glamorous ceremony will take place Wednesday 7th December where the winners of the awards will be announced.

ACVO News 24 December 2022

NEWS

H2 Ho Ho Ho in store at Science with Santa workshops Elves and Santa are to host special sessions at Aberdeen Science Centre this festive season.

S

anta and his cheeky

Santa himself will visit the lab for

of Friday, December 9, where wee

elves will be spreading

photo opportunities with each family

ones will learn how to build and melt a

festive cheer and a little

– and he’s sure to have a special gift in

snowman.

H2 Ho Ho Ho at

his sack for each child to put under

Families can choose their slot when

Aberdeen Science Centre this

their tree.

Christmas.

Visitors can then explore the

Booking is open now for the centre’s

exhibition floor and have fun getting

new Science with Santa workshops,

hands on with the centre’s 60

sponsored by commercial cleaning

interactive science exhibits.

company Tidy Clean Green.

Science with Santa will run on Friday,

The fun sessions will run at weekends

Saturday and Sunday, December 9, 10

from December 9.

and 11 and again on Saturday and

Children will have the chance to visit

Sunday, December 17 and 18.

the festive laboratory, where they will

Science with Santa is suitable for

meet Santa’s cheeky elves and learn

children aged four and over, and

how to make gingerbread slime to

special sessions particularly suitable

take home.

for under-5s will run on the morning

booking online.

Admission to each workshop is £5 per child, including a gift, as well as the standard admission fee. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

As spaces are limited, early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

Steph McCann, fundraising manager at Aberdeen Science Centre, said, “We know Santa is very busy in the run up to Christmas, so we are honoured he is able to join us with his elves for these special festive workshops.

News 25 ACVO December 2022

NEWS

“As well as learning important STEM

an excellent and festive opportunity

Zone, where science, technology,

skills, we hope everyone will leave

for local children to have fun, learn

engineering and mathematics (STEM)

with great memories and a few photos

something new, and enjoy the brilliant

are brought to life.

with Santa before he heads back to

experience Aberdeen Science Centre

the North Pole.

provides.”

Aberdeen Science Centre’s £4.7million

“We are also very grateful to our

Tidy Green Clean is a family-owned,

generous support and funding from

headline sponsor, Tidy Clean Green,

environmentally friendly, commercial

the Inspiring Science Fund – a

whose support has enabled us to

cleaning company offering a range of

partnership between the Department

provide the Science with Santa

commercial cleaning and facilities

for Business, Energy and Industrial

workshops and offer a visit to Santa

management services across Scotland.

Strategy (BEIS), UK Research and

with a bit of a difference. As spaces

The company’s teams in Aberdeen,

Innovation (UKRI) and Wellcome -

are limited, we would encourage booking now to secure your slot for festive fun at Aberdeen Science

Edinburgh, Forth Valley, Tayside, the Highlands and Moray have numerous

redevelopment was made possible by

with additional funding provided by Opportunity North East (ONE) and

clients across all sectors including

Aberdeen City Council.

offices, education, retail, healthcare

The project secured a further

Andrew Alleway, founder and

and manufacturing as well as

£1.5million from funders and sponsors

managing director of Tidy Green

specialised one-off work.

including OPITO, Shell, Equinor, bp,

Clean, said: "When we realised Santa

Recently awarded 5-star status by

The Robertson Trust, TAQA and

Centre.”

and his elves were going to be helping children learn about science at the Aberdeen Science Centre, a venue where we have the privilege of working with year round, we knew we had to be involved. After all, Santa needs healthy, hygienic environments to work in, that won't damage the North Pole - and we all know how messy elves can be!

“This Christmas science workshop is

VisitScotland, Aberdeen Science Centre reopened to the public in 2020 after a major project to create an aspirational science centre which

CNOOC International to deliver quality exhibits and programmes to enhance the overall visitor experience at the venue, as well through outreach

reflects the STEM priorities for both

work.

industry and education.

To book your slot for Science with

The centre’s exhibits are aimed at all

Santa, visit Aberdeen Science Centre

ages and are themed into six zones:

website at aberdeensciencecentre.org

Energy; Space; Life Sciences; Make It,

Admission is £5 per child plus

Test It; and the dedicated area for the

standard admission fee.

under-6s, as well as the Shell Learning

News 27 ACVO December 2022

NEWS

7-year-old gives up birthday gifts to raise £250 for Aberdeen Cyrenians When Ella Couper invited her pals to her 7th birthday party this year, she asked them to bring a donation for Aberdeen Cyrenians instead of a birthday present. The young philanthropists’ selfless request has helped raise £250 for local charity Aberdeen Cyrenians.

Aberdeen Cyrenians has supported some of the North-East of Scotland's most vulnerable and socially excluded people for over 50 years.

in fundraising to support vulnerable people in our community.

The funds raised by Ella will go towards helping people in the Northeast faced by an increasing risk of crisis. We have always been grateful for the true community spirit in the North-east by all generations. Thank you so much.”

Ella Couper said: “We are so lucky that we have a home, our comfy beds to

sleep in and lots of different types of food. I thought if we have more money to give to a homeless charity, they would be much happier. Homelessness is VERY important.”

Louise Couper, Ella’s mother, said: “We are beyond proud of Ella!”

There are a variety of ways to fundraise for Aberdeen Cyrenians.

Find out more at www.weareac.org/fundraising

Amidst a cost-of-living crisis, and a surge in demand of the charity’s services, many people are forced to make unthinkable sacrifices. This thoughtful donation made by choice is a wonderful reflection of solidarity and compassion, prioritising people, and community, and showing that every act of kindness counts.

Receiving the money from Ella at the Direct Access Services on Summer Street, Jennifer McAughtrie, Head of Services, Aberdeen Cyrenians, said: “It is heart-warming to see someone as young as Ella actively getting involved

Ella Couper handing over her donation to Aberdeen Cyrenians.

Langstane Housing Association welcome GREC to its office space Langstane Housing Association are delighted to welcome GREC (Grampian Regional Equality Council) to share its office space at their main premises located on King Street, Aberdeen.

GREC are a registered charity who take a leading role in advancing equality across the North-East of Scotland. They work to tackle

prejudice and discrimination, celebrate diversity and build positive community relations.

General manager at GREC, Dave Black, said "We're delighted to be further developing our long-standing partnership with Langstane Housing Association in this way, and we are excited to explore opportunities around the themes of housing and

inequalities - an issue that is now more than ever a crucial one in Aberdeen and North East Scotland."

Langstane's director of housing, Judith Sutherland, said “It is great for Langstane to work more closely with this brilliant organisation and we look forward to many successful years ahead.”

ACVO News 30 December 2022

ABERLOUR FUTURES

AN INTERVIEW WITH DECLAN HOSKINS Aberlour Futures, part of Aberlour Children’s Charity, is an SQA Accredited Training Centre that is unique in its position as a non-profit making, voluntary sector training organisation. Since 1994, they have provided and delivered a range of qualifications, and training for the children’s services workforce in Northeast Scotland.

One of the services that the charity offers is their structured Modern and Technical Apprenticeship programmes, designed for those aged 16-24 to learn the skills and competencies needed for a career in childcare. The Aberlour Futures SVQ staff team is trained to ensure each young learner can access the right opportunities and make the most appropriate choices for their future.

We spoke to Declan, originally one of Aberlour Futures’ modern apprentices, who is now currently undertaking his Level Four Technical Apprenticeship with Aberlour Futures. Declan details his learning journey in which Aberlour Futures has supported through their services since 2017.

News 31 ACVO December 2022

Can you introduce yourself?

My name is Declan Hoskins, and I started my childcare learning journey with Aberlour Futures through their Skills for Work programme as a pupil at St. Machar Academy.

This programme became the springboard for my choice of career working with children. A year later in 2017, I began working at the Bright Horizons Treehouse Nursery where I acquired my initial job with support from Aberlour Futures and began my Modern Apprenticeship.

I have experienced several job roles at the nursery during my time as a modern apprentice to a qualified early years practitioner. Now I am part of the management team at Treehouse Nursery where this managerial experience is beneficial as I am undertaking Aberlour Futures’ Technical Apprenticeship programme. I have definitely seen the progress of my learning journey over these five years, from being a modern apprentice to where I am now as a technical apprentice.

Are you able to describe your learning journey so far with Aberlour Futures?

During secondary school, I gained my Skills for Work National 5 Early Learning and Childcare qualification after a year of studying. An Aberlour Futures Tutor came into school and taught the theory-based work which involved learning about child development in-depth and many other topics.

From these class lessons, I was then able to put this theory into practice when I was put on placement at a local primary school.

When I achieved this qualification, I then enrolled in Aberlour Futures’ Modern Apprenticeship programme when I got my first childcare job at the Bright Horizons Treehouse Nursery.

During my Modern Apprenticeship, I had a friend who was at college studying a HNC course in childcare. We were always comparing how our learning experiences differed.

As a modern apprentice, I was able to write a more meaningful and reflective account of my role for the award, as I was getting realtime, hands-on experience, which enhanced my learning. Even simple things like attending a staff meeting, working within a team, talking to a parent; I was able to do all of this and gain real-world experience.

Now, I am continuing to progress in my learning journey as I currently undertake my Level 4 Technical Apprenticeship with Aberlour Futures.

What inspired you to do this apprenticeship and childcare in general?

Before pursuing a career in childcare, I never really had an idea for what I wanted to do in the future. My school held a careers fair one day where I found my friend talking to Aberlour Futures at their stall. I joined them and found out what services they offer to school pupils like myself at the time. As a

ACVO News 32 December 2022

result of this simple conversation, I registered to join Aberlour Futures’ school course where I achieved my first childcare qualification after a year of classes and placement.

I really enjoyed going out on placement as part of this qualification and gaining firsthand, practical experience within a childcare setting. It definitely inspired me to pursue Aberlour Futures’ Modern Apprenticeship programme to help me further towards a career in childcare.

I strongly believe this was the correct stepping-stone for me to enter the world of work. If I had missed this part of my learning journey, I believe nothing else would have fallen into place. By having that initial class with Aberlour Futures, I definitely felt inspired to pursue a career involving childcare.

Aberlour Futures are really helpful, and I always feel like I can approach them for help or ask any questions about my work.

What are you enjoying most about your Technical Apprenticeship so far?

With this current apprenticeship, I am enjoying having a more managerial role within the nursery. My new position involves a lot of reflective practice on the way I manage the staff and team. Through this, I can improve my methods of working as a technical apprentice.

I would say I am open-minded when it comes to my learning and development. I am always looking for ways to enhance my skills. For example, I enjoy being able to research different ways of play and putting my findings into practice at the nursery. Having this flexibility is hugely beneficial for myself as well as the children and my team. It makes my role so much more rewarding and fun.

Being a technical apprentice is also enjoyable as I now know what my expectations are with this particular programme. Aberlour Futures are really helpful, and I always feel like I can approach them for help or ask any questions about my work. They have a great partnership with Bright Horizons which makes this part of my learning journey even better. Knowing I have this support definitely makes my current apprenticeship more enjoyable.

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In what ways will the Technical Apprenticeship programme help you further your career in childcare?

I would certainly say by giving me crucial knowledge, skills and competencies needed for a career in childcare. Currently, I am able to provide exceptional care, build good rapport with parents and deliver valuable experiences alongside my team. This apprenticeship in particular is enhancing these skills which makes it so much more valuable.

The Level Four Technical Apprenticeship is certainly of a higher standard compared to the Level Three Modern Apprenticeship. The units that I am currently learning are in relation to legislation and leadership as well as child development and wellbeing.

Child development is important to know and understand as this is how I can enhance my own and the staff team’s practice. Learning the content from these units is helping me within my new management-based role. I have a holistic view and approach to my work instead of just one set vision. This is another way in which the Technical Apprenticeship is helping me further my career.

How would you describe your experience with Aberlour Futures so far?

Aberlour Futures have now supported me and my learning journey for five years which I truly appreciate them for that. I think really highly of them as they look out for my best interests. Their insight, guidance and contacts within the childcare sector have helped with my professional and personal development as I continue to progress.

During the pandemic, Aberlour Futures had to rethink their way of delivering certain services. Pupils who were studying the Foundation Apprenticeship Social Services Children and Young people award at school were unable to go on a placement. Aberlour Futures asked if I could provide mentoring

support online. I supported the pupils weekly, shared my knowledge and experience of the nursery with them for the SVQ part of their course.

The pupils would plan activities for their assessments, send them to me and then I would undertake them at the nursery with the children I work with. I would then give the pupils feedback about how their activities worked in a real-life childcare setting.

During this uncertain time, Aberlour Futures recognised that I was looking for something to supplement my apprenticeship. Having this experience was the perfect way for Aberlour Futures to meet the needs for their students as well as enhancing my own learning journey which I really appreciate.

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What would you like to say to someone who is considering this career path in particular?

I highly recommend anyone considering a career in childcare to follow the apprenticeship route. In college, for example, you get the background understanding and all the theory and some practise. However, I think with this route I’d have really missed out on the practical side of working with children and the experiential hands-on learning that takes place. You certainly need the practice-based knowledge to have a strong reflective account of the work that you do.

The childcare sector continuously evolves so it is essential for current practice to be up-todate and relevant. Working within a real-life setting through the apprenticeship programme is definitely the way to go as I am able to keep up to date with current best practise, reflect and make improvements to my own practise with support from the team and Aberlour Futures.

By following this particular career path, you build those necessary skills and competencies in order to work with children to the best of your abilities. Undertaking the apprenticeship route is definitely the way forward and I encourage anyone considering a career in childcare to follow this path.

Aberlour Futures recognise exactly what you need, and they know what the best options are for each individual.

They tailor their support to each person and their individual needs.

In what ways can Aberlour Futures support someone who wants to pursue this route?

Aberlour Futures provide excellent support as they look for the best interests for each person and tailor the award to your individual learning style as they did for me. Aberlour Futures recognise exactly what you need, and they know what the best options are for each individual.

Aberlour Futures genuinely consider the best options for your career, they give impartial advice if they feel that there is a better option or route for you, they provide you with information that helps you make your own choices and decisions. They tailor their support to each person and their individual needs.

35

Have you got any plans for the future?

Everyone has their own vision of where they would like to be however, I currently have no definitive plans for the future. Being in this new job role and doing my Technical Apprenticeship is the right place for me at the moment.

If you had asked me five years ago where I would be right now, I would not have expected my answer to still be at Treehouse Nursery. I never expected to be so well thought of I would like to say. Saying this, I am so glad to still be working here at the nursery and grateful to continue my learning journey with them.

There are many doors that I can open and paths that I can follow. I may eventually consider a higher qualification such as the BA degree in Childhood Practice or look towards the quality assurance side of childcare. This would involve ensuring quality care and excellence, helping develop staff teams and benefitting children's learning which I already enjoy.

With the support available from Aberlour Futures, anything is possible in the future, and I am excited to see what leads from this Technical Apprenticeship.

If you are interested in finding out more about Aberlour Futures and the services they provide, please visit their website at futures.aberlour.org.uk

ACVO News 36 December 2022

"Being able to provide something as simple as curtains which in turn can ensure children can get a good nights’ sleep can have a massive positive impact on their wellbeing. Stories like these are things we see time and time again through our work" Alison Topley, Chief Operating Officer - Somebody Cares

S

omebody Cares was established in Aberdeen in 2002 with a commitment to improve the welfare of people within the North East and to support those living through challenging

times. As well as operating a very busy food bank, they collect donations of second-hand furniture, clothes, toys and household items which are either given directly, free of charge, to those that need them or sold at their Megastore locations and monthly sales in the city in order to generate the income required to pay the Charity overheads.

Now, as the organisation settle into their new HQ at Wellington Circle in Aberdeen, we met with Alison Topley, Chief Operating Officer and Anne Magarin, Somebody Cares’ Corporate Fundraiser, to hear more about the centre, their new promotional short film and their development plans for the near future.

“We’ve grown a lot as an organisation since we started 20 years ago” said Alison as we were shown around the impressive home furnishing and homeware department at the organisation’s HQ and office space in the south of Aberdeen.

“We deal with around 80 to 90 different agencies and organisations who will refer people in need of our services. These include housing associations like Castlehill and Langstane but also other third sector organisations like Barnardo’s or Children First and even GP Surgeries; basically, we are here for people in their time of need.

“It could be the case that someone is moving into temporary accommodation or into their first flat but have no furniture or basic essentials to make that space a home. We can offer help by allowing people, free of charge, to choose furniture and household items from the centre here at Wellington Circle which we deliver to their accommodation.

Somebody Cares' new HQ at Wellington Circle in Aberdeen has allowed the organisation to expand their reach and offer new services to the people they support in the city

ACVO News 37 December 2022 Somebody Cares offers a personal shopping experience for the people they support, allowing individuals and families to choose homeware and furniture that reflect their tastes

“We are really excited about how we have been able to develop this side of our work since moving to our new location – as you can see our floor layout mirrors that of traditional department stores; not only are we able to present furniture in such a way people can visualise it in their rooms but it also allows us to offer that shopping experience that makes people feel valued.

At the core of all we do is kindness, empathy and understanding and in allowing someone, who may have recently experienced a difficult time, the opportunity to feel that they are entitled to choose something that reflects their individual tastes so that they can live a comfortable life in their home is an important part of that.”

"At the core of all we do is kindness, empathy and understanding" “As well as furniture we also offer all the extras that make a house a home” added Corporate Fundraiser, Anne Magarin, who was recently involved in the commissioning of a short film to capture the story of Somebody Cares and the people that work to make the work of the organisation so impactful. “We have a big collection of pictures and decorations as well as electrical goods that people can choose when they visit us.

“I think a lot of people take it for granted how much it would cost to buy everything required to furnish a home all in one go; from furniture to electrical goods right down to pots and pans, crockery and cutlery – to buy all of this at once is a massive expense.

“A lot of the people we support are starting from nothing, not only do they have no money, but they may have come from a situation – be that somebody who is a victim of domestic abuse or perhaps coming to Scotland from Ukraine – where they have no possessions to their name and need to start from scratch. Being able to help people pull themselves out of that desperate situation and being in a position not only just to help them but to be able to provide a wide range of good quality goods, means a lot to us as an organisation.

“When people visit us to choose furniture and goods, they have the whole centre to themselves; for people in complex situations anonymity is important and we strive to make people feel as comfortable as possible and to feel they can visit us without judgement.”

“I think another thing people take for granted when they consider the setup of a

home is how important having suitable furniture is for the mental wellbeing of individuals and families” added Alison.

“For example, people don’t often consider the importance of an everyday item like a kitchen table. But for families it can be a place for parents and children to eat together, to chat, to do homework and creative activities, to nourish meaningful family bonds. Likewise, we had a family a few weeks ago and the children were having trouble sleeping as they had no curtains on their bedroom windows. Being able to provide something as simple as curtains which in turn can ensure children can get a good nights’ sleep can have a massive positive impact on their wellbeing.

Stories like these are things we see time and time again through our work.

Like many other third sector organisations in Aberdeen, Somebody Cares relies on the time, expertise and commitment of their many volunteers to help deliver the services they offer. From creating room layouts, sorting clothes donations to working in the foodbank and everything in between, volunteers are essential in ensuring people in the city get the support and help they need.

ACVO News 38 December 2022

“We try to match our volunteers with their areas of interest” mentioned Alison. “We have people who work in shops who volunteer here and use their experience to help layout our showroom, retired electrical engineers who PAT test our electrical goods and also people who are happy to come along, lend a hand and also learn some new skills along the way.”

“The commitment shown by our volunteers is something that I really love to see” agreed Anne. “We have such a high volume of items coming through our shops and warehouses and, due to high demand, we have a really quick turnover. Without our volunteers there is no way we would manage to get help out to those who need it. Our community of volunteers is a really special part of Somebody Cares.”

As we continued our walk around the multifloored facility, the extent of the work done by Somebody Cares became apparent. The building is separated into different departments; furniture, homewares, electricals, clothes, workwear, children’s toys, food provisions – all laid out with care and consideration for the people who use the service. The work required to pull an operation of this size together is really impressive but, as Alison and Anne both agree, also a reminder of

the huge need for it in the city and the scale of people who require support.

With the recent cost of living crisis which has seen many struggle to afford basic provisions and food, Somebody Cares has seen demand for their services increase.

When considering the increase in demand, Alison reflected that working for Somebody Cares has been a real eye opener for her in terms of the extent of the need for support in Aberdeen.

“Our foodbank supports thousands of people and increasingly we are seeing families with members who are in work but still unable to afford food and provisions.

Our donations come from members of the public and supermarkets but we also buy goods to top up what we can offer if we are short on certain essentials.

“Christmas is a challenging time for people who depend on our foodbank.

Traditionally a lot of services in the city shut down over the festive period so we work to make sure families and individuals have everything they need not just to survive over this period but also have a nice time together. For Christmas we do big parcels with things like turkeys and hams but also everything in between like crackers and treats as well as snacks for kids – chocolates and things like that.

“We also make up Christmas Eve bags for the little ones with presents and cards and provide presents for older kids. There is a lot of pressure on parents at this time of year and for those who are struggling already it can become really unmanageable. It comes back again to that ethos of kindness that we follow and the thought that no child should be without a treat or a gift at Christmas.”

Other highlights of the visit included ‘The Haven’ a space set out like a boutique shopping experience intended for victims of domestic abuse and human trafficking to try on and choose clothes and other products; a hair salon and pampering space currently in development which will be staffed by professional volunteers and community spaces which will be available for other organisations in the city to use.

Working in partnership will be a focus going forward for the facility and Alison sees the potential benefits of facilitating this.

“We are called Somebody Cares but I see this place becoming a central hub to express the care Aberdeen shows as a city.

We have community spaces people can use to host groups, counselling rooms other third sector organisations can use to support clients and soon hope to have our café area set up where people can attend cooking demonstrations and learn new skills. We are right next to a main road, have easy access by bus and car and are really open to having our home support as many people in the city as possible.

“Our work is all about relationship building; we build relationships with private businesses and third sector organisations in order to support families and individuals we have built trusted relationships with.

The more we can do this, the more we can ensure people are supported at a time when they need it most, can reach people quickly and can let people know they are valued and cared for by others in the city.”

ACVO News 39 December 2022

Watch Somebody Cares’' new short film to discover how they work to support people in need living in the North East

Find out more

Interested in learning more?

Visit somebodycaresscotland.org to find out about available support, making a donation, volunteering and getting involved with the organisation.

VOLUNTEERING

ACVO News 40 December 2022

Volunteering

December update from ACVO's Volunteering Services Manager, Mike Melvin Find out more at volunteeraberdeen.org.uk

International Volunteer Day 5th December 2022 Volunteers in Aberdeen and across the world have once again made an outstanding impact this year and have been a real lifeline for people and communities like never before.

ACVO is therefore delighted to join millions of people across the globe in recognising UNV United Nations Volunteers International Volunteer Day 2022 which takes place on the 5th December 2022.

UNV - United Nations Volunteers coordinates International Volunteer Day on 5th December every year to recognise and promote the incredible efforts of UN Volunteers and volunteers internationally.

On this International Volunteer Day 2022, we particularly celebrate the themes of ‘solidarity through volunteering’ and ‘together, act now’ – highlighting that volunteering is where compassion meets solidarity. Both share the same root values – supporting each other from a position of trust, humility, respect and equality.

ACVO extends a huge International Volunteer Day 2022 thank you to all volunteers in Aberdeen and across the globe!

News 41 ACVO December 2022

VOLUNTEERING

We Too! announces new Trustee during national ‘Trustee Week’ John Slater has joined the charity during a national week which showcases the work of charity trustees.

W

e Too! has announced the latest appointment to its board of Trustee’s who will work alongside the existing five strong board to assist in delivering the charity’s strategy.

Joining the board is John Slater.

John is an experienced media professional with two decades of experience in broadcast media. His most recent role with Bauer Media has John working with content teams across the North of Scotland as a Regional Content Director. John is also an experienced digital marketer and content creator.

During a visit to the charity’s HQ within Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre, John said: “I’m delighted to join as a Trustee, I’ve followed the work of We Too! for many years, volunteering at several key fundraisers. I’m acutely aware how the charity has helped countless

John Slater, the newest trustee appointed to We Too!'s board

families across the area and hope to add my help and experience to assist in the charity’s growth.”

John’s announcement as a Trustee took place during a national week which showcases the work of charity trustees. ‘Trustee Week’, which took place 7-11 November 2022, is branded as a time to come together to celebrate the achievements of nearly 1 million trustees across the UK. Phionna McInnes, Chief Ninja at

We Too! Said: “I’m thrilled to announce John as a Trustee during our national Trustee Week. John will be a great addition to our board, I’m looking forward to his input and guidance, helping to steer the work and growth of We Too! as we enter our sixth year as a key North East charity.”

VOLUNTEERING

ACVO News 42 December 2022

Home-Start Aberdeen kicks off tenth anniversary with family fun day Karen and her colleague Brenda Fraser are also on the lookout for more volunteers to help: “I’d like to thank all the volunteers who’ve helped us out over the years – we must’ve had around 30 of them in that time. We have a great wee team here today, and we couldn’t do any of it without them, but we always need more help.”

A number of other events are planned for the tenth anniversary year including a 2023 Spring shopping day with prosecco and nibbles and an end-of-year raffle.

A

city centre charity shop celebrated ten years of being open last month, with a family fun day held on Saturday 26th November.

Other events are planned for the rest of their tenth anniversary year. One of Aberdeen’s most popular charity shops, Home-Start Aberdeen’s George Street shop, first opened its doors to the public in November 2012.

been a whole decade since we opened our George Street shop – in some ways it feels like only yesterday! It’s been interesting to reflect on footfall in the shop during that time – the first few years were very busy, then we noticed a gradual drop in shoppers, then Covid hit. But we seemed to come back stronger after the pandemic, with a high number of repeat customers as well as plenty of new ones."

Children were treated to a host of fun-filled activities, from festive tattoos and balloons to colouring activities, as well as the chance to take home some fun freebies. The shop’s mascot, Alfie Bear, also made an appearance.

But as footfall has increased, donations to the shop have decreased, as Karen continues: “I think people are more conscious of recycling and repurposing now than they used to be – we’re definitely seeing fewer donations. We always welcome items for the shop and would never turn anything away.”

Shop Manager, Karen Milne, has worked at the shop since its opening.

She said: "It’s hard to believe it’s

As the charity shop’s only paid staff,

All money spent in the George Street shop goes towards helping families in Aberdeen. For over 30 years, HomeStart Aberdeen has been supporting vulnerable families across the city to prevent family crisis and breakdown.

These families have at least one child under the age of five and are typically affected by social isolation, bereavement, relationship problems, illness, disability and financial hardship.

Home-Start Aberdeen positively welcomes and seeks to ensure and achieve diversity. They encourage interest from all regardless of age, race, gender, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, disability or nationality.

For more information on Home-Start Aberdeen visit www.homestartaberdeen.org.uk

News 43 ACVO December 2022

VOLUNTEERING

Free platform to promote your opportunities to young people Vinspired.com is a free platform for organisations throughout the UK to promote volunteering opportunities to young people aged 14-30. Brought to you by Speakers for Schools, the Vinspired platform offers you the chance to: • Share your volunteering opportunities with young people who can search for roles by location, age and interest • Post roles from one or multiple locations, or even post roles that are home-based or located internationally, and post your roles bilingually if required If you would like to find out more, please take a look at the website page for organisations at vinspired.com/vinspired-for-organisations

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES Aberdeen Warm Spaces Volunteers As the cost of living increases it is important that we work together to do everything we can to support every household in Aberdeen.

Aberdeen City Council are working together with partner organisations across Aberdeen to provide a range of public warm spaces that will provide an opportunity for people to come together, share and use resources.

Every warm space is unique however all warm spaces will offer a friendly welcome and comfortable environment to meet friends or socialise. Some warm spaces may be able to provide hot drinks and have activities or programmes that people can join in with. Details of all Warm Spaces in Aberdeen are available at aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/people-and-communities/warm-spaces Do you enjoying talking to people or have a skill or interest that you could share? Our warm spaces will welcome your contribution and can add this to their programme where appropriate.

For more details please email us at Warmspace@aberdeencity.gov.uk

NHS Research Grants Reviewers – NHS Grampian The latest from NHS Grampian is asking theour publicteam. to be involved in the research endowments grant review process.

Every year in NHS Grampian, Research and Development and Endowments offer research funding to local researchers. This funding is to help support new projects in the early stages of their research. The hope is that these initial findings will help projects to secure external funding for further research. All projects are aiming to help NHS Grampian patients and staff by developing new or better medicines, care ideas and more.

We would like to invite volunteers to help review this year’s applications. This would involve reading and scoring three sections of the applications (lay summary, benefit to NHS Grampian and its patients, stakeholder involvement and engagement). There may be up to 8 different applications to read and they are normally a few pages in length. We would ask you to discuss the applications at a meeting with other volunteers and come up with an agreed score. There will be 5 or 6 meetings (depending on interest), with a mix of in person and online meetings. We will only ask you to attend one session.

The meetings are planned for: • Thursday 12th January 2-3.30pm (online) • Friday 13th January 10:30am-1pm (in person including a lunch 12-1) • Friday 13th January 12-2:30pm (in person including a lunch 12-1) • Monday 16th January 5.30-7pm (online) • Tuesday 17th January 12-1.30pm (online) • Friday 20th January 12-2:30pm (in person including a lunch 12-1) The online meetings will be held on MS Teams. Therefore, we ask that you have an email address and a web enabled device that you can join us on e.g. laptop, tablet. The in person meeting will take place in Research and Development Department, Foresterhill House Annexe.

To volunteer/for further details please contact Claudia Zabke, Research Engagement and Involvement Officer at email: gram.ppa@nhs.scot

Volunteers - Street Soccer Scotland Have you ever wanted to volunteer within the concept of Football?

Well look no further! Street Soccer Scotland is currently looking for volunteers to join their team. No two days are the same, working alongside our players developing them personally and mentally.

The role includes working with coaches and players pitch side, monitoring games, inputting data, building relationships with partner organisations. We work with all ages from 10 years old all the way to past retirement.

We currently run in Aberdeen (at Goals Aberdeen Inverdee Pitches, AB12 5XA), Walking Football, Kids 1013 Year olds, Street 45 (Women’s Programme) and Adult Sessions.

Opportunities are available Monday to Friday.

Please get in touch with Peter Wood, Programme Co-ordinator at email: peter@streetsoccerscotland.org or telephone: 07487603708, if you would like to know more.

ACVO News 44 December 2022

News 45 ACVO December 2022

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteer Shopping Companions – Food Train Connects (North of Scotland) Would you like to support older people in the community to eat well, age well and live well and maintain their independence in their own homes for as long as they’re able?

Are you friendly, sociable and patient with a caring manner?

Our Shopping Companion role could well be the opportunity for you!

You would need to be prepared to carry out the following tasks: Collect an older person from their home on agreed date and time to take them for their grocery shopping Support them as they do their grocery shop and transport them back to their home, helping unpack shopping if required To report back to Food Train Connects team and complete all required documentation after each trip To report any matters of concern to Food Train staff To inform Food Train Staff of any accidents, incidents or complaints To maintain confidentiality To represent Food Train in a professional manner to customers and the wider community If you are interested in volunteering with us/for more information please email: volunteer@foodtrainconnects.org.uk - further details are also available on our website at www.foodtrainconnects.org.uk

Events Volunteers - Dates-n-Mates Aberdeen Flexible volunteering superstars needed to help us deliver events for people with learning disabilities so they can socialise and make friends!

As an Events Volunteer, your role is to help our members enjoy socialising in safe and friendly environments. Our events include going to restaurants, pubs, cinema, tenpin bowling, day trips and walks. The events are sociable, great fun and your role is very rewarding. You will initially shadow a volunteer or member of staff to help you get to know everyone and see what is involved.

Events take place afternoons and evenings and usually last 2 hours. We ask our volunteers to commit to a minimum of 1 event per month.

Dates-n-Mates offer a variety of training and support to our volunteers. We require our volunteers to join the PVG scheme but there is no cost to yourself. All expenses including travel will also be covered.

For further information or to apply please contact Raynor McCulloch, Volunteer Co-ordinator at email: volunteering@c-change.org.uk or tel. 07720 591229.

Trustees – Sunrise Partnership Sunrise Partnership is a small local charity established in 2014. We provide free, therapeutic confidential support for children and young people up to the age of 18 experiencing loss and bereavement. We work in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. Our website is at: www.sunrisepartnership.org We are looking for new Trustees to join us at an exciting time in our history and help us create a resilient model for the future, so that we can support even more young people.

A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference.

For more information please contact Peter Kennedy, Chairperson at email: peter.kennedy@sunrisepartnership.org

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

ACVO News 46 December 2022

Buddy Volunteers – Macmillan Cancer Support (North of Scotland) People living with cancer tell us they need emotional support to feel less isolated and lonely and sometimes need some help with practical tasks that they are temporarily having trouble with. By choosing to join us as a Buddy volunteer, you’ll be doing something amazing for people in these extraordinary times, so they can continue to feel connected to the world outside.

Together, we can be right there for people with cancer. There are two types of buddy volunteer: Community Buddy: provides face-to-face support in the community or in people’s homes to alleviate loneliness and help with simple practical tasks Telephone Buddy: provides telephone support to alleviate loneliness and social isolation for people living with cancer What we're looking for: Good listener and clear communicator Patient, flexible and reliable Ability to demonstrate empathy and understanding whilst maintaining boundaries Good IT skills in order to access required systems and resources Understand the need to maintain confidentiality For further details/to apply please click here or contact Leigh Watt, Macmillan Cancer Support Volunteer Services Delivery Lead (North Scotland) at Email: LWatt@macmillan.org.uk / telephone: 07801307003.

Breastfeeding Peer Support Volunteers – NHS Grampian Breastfeeding Peer Support Volunteers provide competent, friendly, proactive support in their local communities and / or in the postnatal wards at Aberdeen Maternity Hospital and Dr Grays.

Our confidential service provides evidence based information and support from mothers who have personal experience of breastfeeding and / or expressing for their child(ren) to mothers, parents and other service users to support them to meet their personal feeding goals.

For further information please contact Adele Hosie at email: adele.hosie@nhs.net

Caseworker Volunteers for Grampian Branch of SSAFA – The Armed Forces Charity Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to listen, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English. If so, this could be the role for you.

Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of help they need. Next, they find the right sources of support and arrange for clients to access it. This might be funds for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit. Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.

Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan. Our trained volunteers listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help people navigate life in and beyond military service. We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us achieve this.

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or in a care home setting.

If you wish to volunteer/for further details please contact Julie Silva (Branch Secretary, Grampian) at email: Julie.Silva@grampian.ssafa.org.uk or telephone: 07879846200.

47

ACVO News December 2022

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

Professional Volunteers - Sported (Aberdeen) We are the UK’s largest network of community groups supporting half a million young people to overcome barriers to reach their full potential. Sported members are led by an incredible group of passionate and dedicated people who do amazing work in their communities, transforming the lives of young people in neighbourhoods across the UK. Where they often lack support or the time is around their organisation’s development and it’s here where you can make a difference.

You will get to meet the inspirational faces of community groups across the UK and immerse yourself in their work; use your existing skills in a rewarding fashion whilst developing new ones; guide members to become more inclusive; network with other like-minded individuals helping grassroots sports groups survive; and so much more. Our volunteers say that making a positive difference to our members is what they most enjoy about volunteering at Sported.

You'll use your professional skills and lived experience to help groups overcome operational challenges, become better equipped for the future, and tackle inequality in sport.

Most of our roles are quite flexible and work around your schedule. We do our best to only share opportunities we think are relevant to you. With most of our volunteering support being delivered digitally, it’s even easier to get started supporting members across our network. Travel expenses in line with our policy are covered in the instances in-person meetings occur.

We know representation matters, which is why we want our volunteers to reflect the diversity of the community groups we work with. We are actively encouraging applicants from ethnically diverse backgrounds and other minorities groups to apply as we are currently under-represented in this space.

For more information please contact us at: volunteer@sported.org.uk, telephone: 07557 374886 or visit: sported.org.uk/volunteers

Volunteer Befrienders – TLC Befriending Service Everyone can feel lonely and isolated at times, especially if experiencing hardship. At TLC our vision is to see a transformed community where poverty and social isolation are a thing of the past. The TLC Befriending Project provides befriending services for anyone aged 18 and older where our values of Compassion, Purposefulness and Community are central to everything we do.

In response to the effects of loneliness and isolation on peoples wellbeing (physical, emotional, social and mental health), that the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated, TLC have responded to this need and further developed our befriending service to combat the loneliness and isolation felt by many in our city. Our service is provided to anyone aged 18 years and over in Aberdeen who is experiencing or at risk of loneliness or isolation. Your help as a volunteer would therefore make a real difference.

Our expertly trained and compassionate volunteers not only provide a lifeline to people, in the form of friendship, but also a helping hand to reconnect to the community, bringing joy and passion back into people’s lives.

If you would like to be a beacon of hope to someone in need, please do apply to join our fantastic team of volunteers. For further information please email us at recruitment@tlc.org.uk

Volunteers – Clan Cancer Support Leading north east cancer charity Clan Cancer Support is appealing for 100 new volunteers across the north-east as it aims to reach more local people affected by cancer ahead of its 40th anniversary next year.

Clan is looking for people to take on a range of roles involving listening and support services, event support, retail support, driving clients to medical appointments and gardening to help maintain the grounds at Clan’s support centres.

To find out more and to enquire about volunteering at Clan please email volunteering@clancancersupport.org or call 01224 647000.

ACVO News 48 December 2022

FUNDING

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

ABZ Propeller Fund donates £25k to worthy projects 18 organisations have shared in £25,000 of funding through the ABZ Propeller Fund.

P

reviously known as the Aberdeen International Airport Community Fund, the ABZ Propeller Fund is

open to groups, charities, and organisations with links to education, sustainability, and economic regeneration.

Among those who have received funding is the Aberdeen Science Centre, who hosted a celebration event with 2022 fundees on 1st December.

It received funding to expand its range and availability of educational loan boxes.

develop new resources for both

“We encourage groups with a focus

schools and community groups and

on young people, sustainability or that

The boxes are available for schools, community groups and other organisations to borrow and use in their own classroom, garden or community setting.

extend our STEM education beyond

make a tangible and real difference in

the centre itself.

their local communities to consider

Groups can choose from a Bioblitz box, which include binoculars, mini telescopes, bug pots, ID guides and an activity booklet to help youngsters explore nature in their playgrounds; or a Planet Protectors box, which includes a portable air quality monitor, soil testing monitor, activity guides and stationery.

Bryan Snelling, chief executive of Aberdeen Science Centre, said: “We are extremely grateful to the ABZ Propeller Fund for the generous funding, which has allowed us to

“While the centre is open to everyone

applying for funding.

we know there can barriers which

“We were delighted to back the ABZ

make it difficult for some groups to

Propeller Fund this year and to meet

visit in person, so our outreach work

with who received funding and hear

provides a vital bridge between the

more about their projects was the

science centre and our community,

cherry on top.”

allowing even more people of all ages

“However, we are delighted to be

to engage in science and make new

relaunching with a new name for our

discoveries.”

group, the ABZ Propeller Fund.”

Bruce Watson, chairman of the ABZ

Members of the ABZ Propeller Fund

Propeller Fund at Aberdeen

include airport staff, as well as

International Airport, said: “The ABZ

representatives from the local

Propeller Fund is a great way for

authorities and government.

community groups, charities and organisations to get help with funding and get their project off the ground.

The search is now on for applicants for 2023 with the committee meeting four times a year.

News 49 ACVO December 2022

FUNDING

Funding opportunities closing this month!

Reaching New Scots Fund Up to £30,000 available Equalities Applications close: 18/12/2022

The Reaching New Scots Fund is designed and managed by people from refugee backgrounds in partnership with The National Lottery Community Fund. The project aims to create a fairer, more accessible approach to funding, making it easier for refugee-led community groups to successfully apply for grants.

Apply now

Ruth Hayman Trust Up to £1,500 available Equalities Applications close: 27/12/2022 The Ruth Hayman Trust awards small grants to support the education and training of adults who have come to settle in the UK, and whose first language is not English and cannot afford the full fees for their studies. We support those suffering severe financial and social hardship, in particular refugees, people seeking asylum and survivors of modern slavery, domestic violence and trafficking.

Apply now

discover more sources of funding like these at

acvo.org.uk/opportunities/funding

ACVO News 50 December 2022

VACANCIES

Vacancies

Customer Service Advisor SCARF £19,900 p/a

Full Time

Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire

35 hours

Contract Type: Permanent

Closing date: 30/12/2022

Scarf is a charity and social enterprise – founded in 1985 – that supports householders, communities and businesses in North East Scotland, helping them to reduce their fuel bills and carbon emissions.

Our Customer Service Advisors provide in-depth advice to householders on energy efficiency and energy bills. The support is offered mainly through home visits, but also over the phone and occasionally via events.

Key duties and responsibilities include: Providing impartial advice to householders via home visits, over the phone, and via events.

Liaise with third parties such as partner organisations and fuel suppliers in order to support customers.

Maintain a record of these activities and achievements against agreed targets.

The position is full-time, 35 hours per week.

We have multiple vacancies available in order to cover home visits and advice sessions in the Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire areas.

Administrative tasks can be performed at home. All staff are expected to travel to our offices in Aberdeen or Dundee on occasion for meetings.

ACVO News

VACANCIES

December 2022

51

Marketing Admin Assistant SCARF £19,900 p/a

35 hours per week

Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Aberdeen

Closing date: 05/12/2022

Scarf is a charity and social enterprise – founded in 1985 – that supports householders, communities and businesses in North East Scotland, helping them to reduce their fuel bills and carbon emissions. We’re looking for a Marketing Admin Assistant to provide administrative support to the customer service team and associated marketing tasks. The post holder will provide administrative support to the customer service team and to associated marketing tasks.

Key duties and responsibilities include: • Work with the marketing manager to help reach marketing objectives.

• Assist in creating promotional materials and marketing copy.

• Help maintain social media accounts.

• Assist in organising and planning the production of all marketing materials by working closely with printers and other involved parties.

• Manage and maintain stock of relevant literature and marketing materials.

• Arranging events, and managing requests to attend events.

• Assisting with administration of marketing and events activity • Maintain client records, processing and fulfilling client requests for information, recording statistical information relating to campaigns / initiatives.

• Maintain good communication across the whole Scarf organisation and with all parties involved and work to the agreed service standards to meet contractual agreements.

News 52 ACVO December 2022

VACANCIES

Lead Practitioner TURNING POINT SCOTLAND £22,649 - £25,394

Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

37 hours per week

Aberdeen

Closing date: 07/12/2022

Our Aberdeen Housing Support Services are looking for full-time Lead Practitioners to assist in the provision of person-centred support to a wide range of people who have experienced, or are at risk of, homelessness.

At Aberdeen Outreach Housing Support, we work across localities to enable people to maintain independent tenancy sustainment, reconnect with their local communities and assist them to build their resilience to prevent repeat homelessness. We respond to the individual needs of those who are homeless or at the risk of becoming homeless, including those who are rough sleeping, or are in temporary or permanent accommodation. The service supports people who may have multiple needs which may be related to mental health, alcohol and other drug use, offending, finance and employment.

Previous working experience is desired however full training will be provided to you. We believe having the right values of respect, compassion, inclusion and integrity is all you need to join our team! We will offer you full support in completing your application.

As a Lead Practitioner, you be required to work on your own initiative, make decisions and provide support to colleagues; you will work with individuals who have a wide range of support needs, providing them with practical and emotional support and encouraging them to achieve their own personal outcomes.

Full details of this role can be viewed on the Job Role Profile here Please note that IT skills are required for all our vacancies.

Where applicable, successful candidates will be required to register with the SSSC within 6 months of start date.

Want to reach Aberdeen's third sector with details of your vacancy?

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You can now submit details of your vacancy through our brand new online portal, ACVO Opportunities!

Submit vacancy

Submit other opportunities!

As well as vacancies, ACVO Opportunities also allows you to submit details of your volunteering opportunities, events or sources of funding - let ACVO help you spread the word to the community!

find out more at

acvo.org.uk/opportunities

acvo.org.uk