ACVO News May 2022

ACVO NEWS

NEWS FROM ABERDEEN'S THIRD SECTOR

MAY | 2022

acvo.org.uk

ACVO News

CONTENTS

22 Grampian Pride returns to Aberdeen in May!

May 2022

26 Interview with Margaret MacLachlan of GamCare’s Women’s Programme in Scotland

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30 New ACVO profile film takes a closer look at 150 years of VSA at Aberdeen Art Gallery

6 News from you and other networks 36 Volunteering The latest from Mike Melvin and Volunteer Aberdeen 42 Volunteering Opportunities 46 Funding The latest funding news and opportunities 50 Health and Social Care Updates 52 Vacancies Latest opportunities from the third sector in Aberdeen and beyond

P.32

RAISING MONEY FOR GUIDE DOGS WITH ABERDEEN'S KILTWALK

60 Events, Training and Workshops Find out what's happening soon and how to submit your event to our calendar

Interview with Mary Rasmussen and Ells Mchaffie

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

Scottish Charity No: SC036845

ACVO News May 2022

Want to be part of a hardworking and passionate team who work to involve, represent, support and develop Aberdeen's vibrant third sector?

JOIN THE ACVO TEAM As part of our ongoing development, we are pleased to announce that currently have two new opportunities to work with ACVO Third Sector Development Officer (The Promise) - Closes 12th May & Policy and Consultations Officer (in partnership with Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action) - Closes 17th May

The two new roles support our commitment towards developing and involving the third sector in our city.

Third Sector Development Officer (The Promise) This role will see the successful candidate support the implementation of The Promise (A Good Childhood). The Corra Foundation and the Scottish Government have invested in ACVO to work with third sector organisations in this process to engage fully with the ambitions of The Promise in Aberdeen This post will offer third sector organisations the ability to feel better connected with each other around the ambitions for The Promise, through facilitation of events, coordination of information, learning and potentially data to look more closely at how we as a city are delivering on aspects of A Good Childhood together.

For the ambitions of The Promise to be successful all sectors need to work together to look at the whole picture of the lives of care experienced children, young people and families. This role will help support third sector organisations to be part of the design and delivery of services in any new commissioning frameworks with the ambition to

help shape and inform the aims of A Good Childhood.

This is a chance to join a friendly and dynamic team and be part of shaping change with the third sector and delivering on the ambitions of The Promise.

Apply now at acvo.org.uk/vacancies/third-sector-developmentofficer-the-promise/ Policy and Consultations Officer (in partnership with Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action)

In the first of its kind for our organisations, we are seeking to recruit a joint Policy and Consultations Officer. The postholder will be expected to be enthusiastic and self-driven, and able to work within different teams, whilst balancing competing demands. They should be able to interpret local, regional, and national policies as they apply to community, voluntary, and third sector groups and organisations; support those groups and organisations to understand and engage with the policies; and enable AVA and ACVO to prepare effective responses to those policies.

Apply now at avashire.org.uk/policy-and-consultations-officer

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be part of

the collective voice of the Third Sector in Aberdeen

Become a member of ACVO

from as little as £25 per year applications open now

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

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ACVO News May 2022

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News from you and other networks

Aberdeen youngsters amplify their voice with launch of Granite City Speaks Denis Law Legacy Trust has launched a new youth forum which aims to give the young people of Aberdeen a louder voice in the city.

Pictured in their new Granite City Speaks hoodies are (L-R): Stacie, Frazier, Tegan, Lewis, Ella, JB, Neave and Ellis.

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ACVO News May 2022

G

ranite City Speaks was initially founded last summer, in 2021, and has now taken shape to

include 11 active participants with representation from Northfield, Mastrick, Torry, Garthdee, Kincorth and the City Centre.

Meetings are held monthly at Robert Gordon University, the home of Streetsport - the Trust’s flagship programme which is run in partnership with the university and has been present in Aberdeen communities since 2006.

As well as varying locations, the group also consists of young people with different backgrounds and occupations. Some are still at school while others are in further education or full-time work, allowing for a diverse range of views to be presented and brought forward for discussion.

Hannah Clews, Streetsport Development Manager at Denis Law Legacy Trust who leads Granite City Speaks (GCS), said: “The formation of GCS was born

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out of us wanting to ensure the young people who attend our Streetsport programmes are listened to more in the city they grow up in.

Following discussions about how this

“Many of them come to us with problems or concerns and we want them to have the ability to amplify their voices so that they themselves are heard, rather than having to rely on others to represent them indirectly.

Reboot, an Aberdeen Foyer initiative,

felt demeaning and somewhat offensive to people who are labelled as such, GCS worked in consultation with to understand how they could go about changing the language used at a Council level.

Other actions have included helping the Trust with fundraising ventures, such as the upcoming Kiltwalk, and feeding back to the organisation about how

“The members have shown a lot of commitment and desire and it’s been great to see it progress to the stage where we think GCS can create genuine and influential change for communities and young people in Aberdeen”.

they could improve as a whole, from

While still learning how to be effective and influential leaders for their community, one of the first GCS tasks was to tackle the conversation around how many young people are described as “vulnerable learners” in school.

group to look the part in new hoodies

Streetsport’s carbon footprint to a litter pick initiative and advice in recruitment.

Some other major projects are waiting in the wings until the local elections are complete too, with GCS members keen to take their community’s newly elected councillors head on.

Funding, gratefully sought from the National Lottery Fund, has afforded the and also enjoy a team-building day at Go Ape. Thanks must go to the forum members for their enthusiasm and Innovation @RGU’s Innovation Station which has acted as an ideal meeting space.

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ACVO News May 2022

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Air Ambulance New NSPCC figures and Re-procurement analysis shed light on scale of Project abuse and neglect in Scotland The Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) is undertaking a consultation and engagement exercise as part of the reprocurement of the national air ambulance service for Scotland.

SAS provides the air ambulance service to mainland Scotland and its islands. It is the only wholly publicly funded air ambulance service in the United Kingdom and is an invaluable resource to the Scottish public.

The aircraft used by the Air Ambulance Service are owned and operated by a private company on a contractual basis and the current contract is due to expire. To support the development of a new air ambulance contract, a project team has been established and an important task for the team is to consult with all stakeholders. Following the consultation exercise, the formal process of selecting a provider for the new air ambulance contract will be taken forward.

·Last year the NSPCC Helpline made 897 referrals about child abuse and neglect concerns to agencies in Scotland – an average of two a day. ·Half a million children a year suffer abuse in the UK, says charity ·NSPCC believes everyone has a responsibility to protect children from abuse and neglect and calls for people to take action on Childhood Day NSPCC Scotland has released data and research that paints a worrying picture of the abuse and neglect faced by children. The charity is calling for everyone to play their part in preventing abuse as it reveals details of Childhood Day 2022.

In 2021/22, the NSPCC’s Helpline for adults made 897 referrals about abuse and neglect to agencies in Scotland – an average of two a day.

The most common reason for the charity’s practitioners to escalate their concerns in Scotland was neglect, with 272 referrals being made for this concern.

Across the UK last year, the Helpline made 22,983 referrals to agencies about children thought to be experiencing abuse and neglect - an average of 63 children a day.

The NSPCC Helpline receives contacts from the public and professionals who have safeguarding fears about a child. The charity will refer these on to statutory agencies when serious enough to do so, whilst offering advice and assistance in all cases.

The NSPCC is also releasing analysis that sets out the scale and breadth of this issue, estimating that half a million children a year suffer abuse in the UK. That means 7 children in a classroom experience abuse before they turn 18.

We want to ensure we gather opinions from everyone with a view on this important element of the Service before arrangements are renewed. If you wish to express any views or opinions about the aircraft, air ambulance staff, or quality of service, please get in touch in any of the following ways: Complete an online consultation form here or email us on: sas.airamb@nhs.scot

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ACVO News May 2022

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Langstane Housing Association’s offices open after two years

This comes as the NPSCC launches Childhood Day, the charity’s flagship day of fundraising and action that brings everyone in the UK together to protect children.

The leading children’s charity is emphasising that everyone has a responsibility to protect children from abuse and neglect. This means people reporting any concerns they have about a child, Governments across the UK prioritising child protection at a national level and a rallying call for everyone across the UK to unite on the 10 June for Childhood Day, to raise money and awareness for the NSPCC. Whether it’s by fundraising, donating, volunteering at a collection, or taking action, the NSPCC is asking people to play their part to help keep children safe from abuse. The charity is encouraging people to 'search 'Childhood Day' to find out more.

Sir Peter Wanless, NSPCC CEO said: “In light of the recent tragic cases, the NSPCC is emphasising how important it is that we challenge ourselves to do all we can to protect children from harm.

“As well as the Scottish Government playing a leading role in this fight, we know that strong communities can help to keep children safe, with thousands of individual people playing their part and doing what’s right. That’s why we created Childhood Day – a day that brings everyone in the UK together to make child protection a top priority.”

At the start of next month, the NSPCC will launch its Childhood Day TV Appeal.

The advert, which will go out on TV from the 2nd May, sees a member of the public contact the NSPCC helpline with concerns about a three-year-old boy who is experiencing physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his mother.

The NSPCC is urging anyone with concerns about a child, even if they’re unsure, to contact the NSPCC helpline to speak to one of the charity’s professionals. People can call 0808 800 5000, email help@nspcc.org.uk or fill in the online form.

Following the closure of their offices in Aberdeen and Elgin in March 2020 due to the Covid- 19 pandemic, Langstane Housing are pleased to announce that their doors are now re-opening to tenants and the general public.

With effect from Wednesday 20th April the Aberdeen office, based at 680 King Street, will be open between 11am and 3pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

The Elgin office on North Guildry Street will be open between 1pm – 3pm every Monday and Friday and again between 10am – 12pm every Wednesday.

Langstane's new Customer Service Team, headed up by the Customer Services Manager Rebecca Davidson and her team Ronnie, Samantha, Kat, Kim, Theresa and Zoe, are ready to take your call.

The organisation wish to thank all their tenants for their patience over the past few years and look forward to welcoming you back to our their offices soon.

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ACVO News 10 May 2022

Clan Cancer Support Relaunches Therapy Offering Across NorthEast And Northern Isles

N

orth East cancer charity, Clan Cancer Support has welcomed back their complementary therapy offering to anyone affected by cancer, following a 2 year hiatus due to the covid pandemic. Their centres in Aberdeen, Banchory, Inverurie, Elgin, Crimond, Shetland and Orkney are providing a variety of vital therapies that cancer patients and their families can benefit from.

The range of complementary therapies available varies in each area and are tailored to individual needs after an initial consultation. Clan has introduced several new credible therapists to provide the service, which has been put on hold since 2020. The recently renovated therapy suites will enable cancer patients and their families to have a safe space to experience therapies aimed towards easing pain and worries. Clan recommends that you keep your GP and/or consultant advised of any therapies taken.

Kay Johnston, Head of Cancer Support

main objective was to ensure that Clan’s

Services for Clan (pictured below) says,

therapy offering aligned with the

“Clan is excited to welcome back

therapies recognised within the NHS as

complementary therapies across all our

complementary to conventional

centres throughout the North-East of

treatment for those with a cancer

Scotland and Islands.

diagnosis. Our therapies will ensure a

"Clan used the break in providing

continuation of care in the community,

essential complementary therapies throughout the pandemic to reassess the range of therapies on offer. The

for those with a cancer diagnosis undergoing treatment. Complementary therapies are designed to support and

News 11 ACVO May 2022

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ACVO News May 2022

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alleviate some of the physical and

paint the rooms. Dee Carpets helped to

Clan encourages anyone recently

emotional side effects that comes with

provide us with beautiful new flooring,

diagnosed, going through

a client’s cancer journey, and they are

and Ali Munro Plumbing Services

treatment, having finished

there for anyone who is affected in any

installed equipment for the new Salon

treatment or who have a loved

way by cancer – not just those with the

within the suite of rooms. I cannot

one facing a cancer diagnosis, to

diagnosis.

thank these companies enough for the

get in touch to find out more

difference their generosity has made to

about the therapy offering in

Clan.

their local area. You can call

reflexology, reiki, hypnotherapy and

“It has been an incredibly challenging

01224 647000 or email

many more that you can find in our

time for people affected by cancer due to the pandemic, which is why we

enquiries@clancancersupport.org or visit Clan’s website

have been striving to get our

www.clancancersupport.org.

"Our offering includes a range of massage including oncology massage;

menu of therapies on Clan’s website.”

Kay continues, “We are so lucky to have had our therapy suites redecorated to reflect modern yet tranquil spaces where escapism can be sought. The redecoration was carefully thought out to ensure it fulfilled a full sensory experience for clients. We have had an incredible input from DECreate Services, Trade Secrets UK, Johnstone’s

therapies back up and running as soon as it was safe to do so. We are hoping that by our up and running as soon as it was safe to do so. We are hoping that by our therapy offering returning, it will encourage anyone facing a cancer journey, unsure about

"Decorating Centre Aberdeen and

what their support options are, to

Anderson Contracts Ltd who kindly

come through the doors of their local

donated their time and resource to

centre.”

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ACVO News May 2022

Leading neurodiversity charity strengthens its board In March, LinkedIn and Dictionary.com officially recognised ‘dyslexic thinking’ – making a huge impact on the way in which dyslexic individuals view their own unique way of thinking and the value this brings to the world of work.

Linkedin, the world’s largest professional careers platform, now offers its 810 million+ members the chance to add

Terry Allan, CEO of Global E&C and Billy Alexander, CEO of Grampian Autistic Society

‘Dyslexic Thinking’ to their profiles and Dictionary.com has also redefined the term as ‘strengths in creative, problemsolving and communication skills.’

Grampian Autistic Society (GAS), a leading charity for autism and neurodiversity, strengthens its board with the addition of Terry Allan.

Mr Alexander welcomed these advances but added that there is ‘still more to do’ in terms of shedding light on neurodiversity and said: ‘People with neurocognitive differences have talents,

A

s CEO of Global E&C, Mr Allan brings a unique perspective to GAS and their efforts to highlight the successes of

thinking differently. As the only Board member currently operating in the energy industry, and as a current member of the Diversity and Inclusion for Energy Task Group, his business background is set to drive further ambitions for encouraging neurodiversity in the workplace.

GAS CEO, Billy Alexander, commented: ‘My fellow Directors and I are delighted to have such a strong leader in Terry join as a new colleague on our Board. The Global E&C business has already been working closely with GAS for some time now and are a great example of an organisation that challenges the norm and embraces neurodiversity in the workplace. We’re confident that Terry’s commitment on the Board will help accelerate our drive to influence change in further corporate spheres.’

It is estimated that around one in seven people are neurodivergent as it has a wide spectrum and covers a range of hidden neurological conditions, such as but not limited to Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette Syndrome, and social anxiety.

perspectives and skills that can be distinctly beneficial in many work environments. More and more employers are beginning to understand these benefits and develop hiring initiatives that focus on recruiting neurodivergent workers.

This means that many organisations and businesses already have a neurodiverse workforce as Mr Allan commented: ‘Thinking differently is a major benefit of neurodiversity and is a vital characteristic for the 21st century

Quite often though, people with neurocognitive differences experience barriers to employment before they can even begin a job. The various aspects of the recruitment process, from job descriptions to interviewing, can pose concerns along the way that can deter

workplace where we need to harness the power of strong problem-solving skills, a

neurodivergent candidates from pursuing a position.’

great imagination and creative, bigpicture thinking. It is important that employers ensure that there is an understanding of what neurodiversity is and that managers have developed skills to lead and manage neurodiverse staff.’

Founded in 1989, GAS has been

This news comes on the back of similar recent announcements that project the value of neurodiversity in the workplace.

supporting autistic children, young people, adults, and their families across the Grampian region from its facilities at Carnie Drive, Aberdeen. With the appointment of Terry Allan to its board, they plan to ramp up their efforts to support workplaces in their efforts to be more diverse and inclusive.

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ACVO News

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May 2022

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Charity Ladies Lunch aims to empower girls and women in Kenya

A charity Ladies Lunch is being held in Aberdeen to help get girls into school and start business for their mums in Kenya.

A

berdeen based charity,

lives in Kenya through their great work

The Property Duo for their support and

Gathimba Edwards

in house building, it’s a privilege for us

belief in our work which gives us a

Foundation (GEF) are

to be supporting the foundation".

chance of expanding our support to

hosting the event on

Faith and her mum, Felista were born

many other families."

Saturday 18th June at the newly

with disabilities and have been

More information on how to purchase

revamped Union Kirk venue (formerly

supported by GEF since 2016: "Despite

tickets, tables or to donate prizes can be

Soul Casino) on Union Street.

myself and Faith being born without

found on the charity's website

The event, which is headline sponsored

hands or feet, we have not let this stop

gathimbaedwardsfoundation.org/ladies-

us in life and GEF have really helped us",

lunch-fundraiser.

by rapidly growing Scottish property firm The Property Duo, aims to raise funds to pay the school fees of girls who are out of school due to a lack of fees, provide them with uniform, shoes, stationery, books and sanitary towels,

Felista said. "Faith is top of her class in a school where she is the only disabled child and I am able to run farming projects where I keep goats, chickens and grow vegetables like kale and

whilst also starting and expanding

spinach."

businesses for women through the

GEF co-founder, Myles Edwards said:

charity's Two Feet Initiative.

"We are very excited to be hosting our

Stef Paterson and Jade Flannigan,

first Ladies Lunch and one of our first in

Directors of The Property Duo said:

person events since Covid-19 came into

"We are delighted to be supporting the

the world. In addition to helping get girls

upcoming Gathimba Edwards Foundation Ladies Lunch, a hugely worthwhile cause that is close to our hearts- empowering women to be the best they can be, whatever their circumstances.

"Combined with our own passion for property, the foundation’s work really struck a chord with us. Learning how GEF are bettering children and families

into school and start business for their mum's, we also plan to improve the living conditions of girls who struggle to study due to lack of light and furniture to do their homework; whilst also providing them with access to a psychosocial support programme.

"Girls and women like Faith and Felista really inspire us to do as much as we can to empower others. We are grateful to

News 15 ACVO May 2022

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Grampian Women's Aid: May Training The Dynamics of Domestic Abuse Friday, 11th May, 18:00-20:00 Open to the public and to professionals - to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of domestic abuse.

James Knowles, Chairperson

New website launch for Langstane Housing Association Langstane Housing Association has

Langstane. Other visitors to the

launched its new website at

site can apply for a home and

www.langstane-ha.co.uk. Working

access a vast range of information.

with specialist housing association

Chairperson, James Knowles said:

website designer, Kiswebs Ltd, this

“We hope our tenants find the new

new site allows the Association to

website fresh, modern and

Find out more and book your place here: http://ow.ly/RjlF50IGfkr

OWN MY LIFE Taster Session for Agency Professionals Friday 20th May, 13:00-16:00 This taster session introduces Own My Life course content with the purpose of enabling professionals to more confidently and effectively refer women onto the course.

better engage with tenants and other customers, through digital means. With streamlined menus, simplified navigation and enhanced images, visitors to the website are able to better interact with the Association using a range of

informative as we have worked

devices. Tenants, Langstane’s target

hard to make sure it is designed in

audience, are now able to easily

a way that our online visitors can

access options to pay their rent,

easily access the services and

report repairs, or contact their

information they need day and

housing officer online. Moving

night. The digital world is evolving

forward the Association’s Customer

and our new website is one part of

Service team will play a prominent

Langstane’s modernisation journey

role, keeping tenants up-to-date

to deliver on our commitment to be

with the latest happenings at

the best we can be.”

Find out more and book your place here: http://ow.ly/Pa4950IGiQq

ACVO News 16 May 2022

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Local children’s charity encourages supporters to take on 245 Challenge to raise money for the 245 children they support each year

B

efriend a Child have recently

fault of their own. By raising money for

children, allowing them the opportunity

launched a new 245

Befriend a Child you are actively

to experience more of what life has to

Challenge to raise money for

contributing towards helping alleviate

offer and create happy childhood

their vital programmes and

some of the difficulties in their young

memories.

projects which support 245 children

lives.’ – Jean Gordon, Head of

growing up in difficult life circumstances

Operations, Befriend a Child.

It’s free to sign up to Befriend a Child’s

in the local community each year. The

Children who are growing up in difficult

welcome to take part at a time, and

life circumstances are referred for

within a timeframe, that suits them best.

support from Befriend a Child through

To find out more and to get involved

approved referral partners. Children can

simply can visit the link below.

be referred for a number of reasons,

justgiving.com/campaign/245challenge

charity are challenging supporters to take on 245 of anything they like, so long as it’s a challenge to complete, whilst fundraising for Befriend a Child.

‘We wanted to create a sponsored

they may be experiencing lack of

challenge that is accessible to everyone,

confidence, low self-esteem, or social

and our 245 Challenge is just that.

isolation. They may be suffering abuse

Participants of the 245 Challenge can

and neglect at home, have a parent who

get creative with what they would like

is struggling with substance misuse, or

to do, decide on a timeframe that suits

they may be in need of a positive adult

them, and complete the challenge solo

role model. Having the 1:1 support of a

or as a team. This could involve running

befriender or mentor can have a

24.5K, walking 245,000 steps,

transformational effect on these

swimming 245 lengths, baking 245 cupcakes, singing 245 songs, or even knitting for 245 minutes straight.’ – Tara Morrison, Fundraising and Marketing Co-ordinator, Befriend a Child. All participants need to do to get started is decide what their chosen challenge involves, pick a timeframe to complete the challenge, and set up their JustGiving page to begin fundraising.

Befriend a Child will be on hand to provide support throughout the challenge and participants are encouraged to get in touch with the charity before they begin for a fundraising pack and a branded t-shirt.

‘Each year we support on average 245 disadvantaged children and young people who are experiencing challenging life circumstances every day through no

245 Challenge and participants are

To find out how you too could support Befriend a Child by fundraising or volunteering simply visit www.befriendachild.org.uk or email info@befriendachild.org.uk.

News 17 ACVO May 2022

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Children’s Charity Expands Services Thanks to Local Businesses Charlie House announces move to provide accessible services to North East families

L

move possible – and of course to

Support Manager, Leigh Ryrie, is elated

Thorpe Molloy McCulloch Recruitment

to have a dedicated space to deliver the

who hosted our previous office for the

important services Charlie House

past five years.”

provides, expressing her thanks to the

The charity has also received

community for pulling together.

outstanding support from many local

“Finding a venue which was suitable and

businesses who have ensured the new

accessible with plenty of room to

office is fully equipped and ready to

provide support to families beyond our

life-limiting and life-threatening

welcome families and volunteers onsite.

existing services has always been of the

conditions in North-east Scotland.

“We have been blown away by just how

utmost importance,” she said.

The property extends over four floors,

many people wanted to help.” said

“We wanted to give them a private and

providing ample space for Charlie House

Tracy.

safe space where they could receive

staff and volunteers to return to the

The charity has applauded a number of

emotional support whenever they need

office after years of working from home.

local businesses who generously offered

Chair and Founder of Charlie House,

their services free of charge including

could come to play and talk.

ASPC and Shell who generously offered

We are so delighted to be able to do this

furniture and local locksmith John

from Balmoral House.” says Leigh.

the next three years, Balmoral House

Mutch.

The charity says that the move will

will provide us with a base to deliver

Like most charities, directing vital funds

make a huge difference to the support

and grow the services of Charlie House,

to provide services to the community is

they can provide and will have a

as well as run our ‘Big Build Appeal’ to

a priority, which has been greatly

profoundly positive impact on families in

raise the £8million to build a specialist

assisted by Corporate Moves, Aberdeen

the North East who access their

support centre for families here in

locals Kore, Mackenzie Fire, Keenan

services. Tracy Johnstone concluded,

Aberdeen.”

Recycling, One Stop Waste and Tidy

“Charlie House’s office move is a

We are very grateful for the continued

Green Clean who all provided services

fantastic showcase of the kindness of

support we receive from Knight

at a discount to make the move possible.

the North East community and the

Property Group and The Barrack

Charlie House’s Children and Family

desire they have to help those who need

ocal children’s charity Charlie House has announced a relocation to Balmoral House in the heart

of Aberdeen’s west end. Let

by Knight Property Group, the space provides a home for the charity’s important work to support children with

Tracy Johnstone spoke of the move and the difference it will make, saying, “Over

Charitable Trust who helped make this

it, where children and their siblings

it most.”

ACVO News 18 May 2022

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Call For IT Help Can you help? The Living Well Project has three employees who are at the very edge of their knowledge of IT matters. They are looking for someone to create a new website and to overhaul their e-mail and software set-up.

Offer of free office furniture to the third sector BP are looking to donate furniture as they begin to move to a new office in Aberdeen. The inventory will be released during late July into August. This may change due to occupation dates for their new office, but will be managed as it changes.

The Living Well Project (SC042266) offers two services in our local communities – it supports people living with dementia and their carers, and runs a befriending service for older people who feel isolated.

Wherever possible, the entities that require the furniture will need to make arrangements to have it transported from the offices in Dyce to their location.

BP will help with this where possible.

Enquiries from prospective donees can be made via

For further details, please e-mail

Alyson.Smith2@uk.bp.com.

admin@thelivingwellproject.org.uk

To download the full list of furniture, please click here.

Call out from Podiatry, can we work with you more closely?

Opportunities for shared learning and career skills training from NHS Colleagues As you will all be aware COVID has had a direct impact on delivery of care due to the additional demands placed on health and social care services. To try and respond, we are keen to explore the benefits of support from and working more collaboratively with 3rd sector partners. This collaborative approach does not replace people’s roles nor does it take away from the valued work that everyone already undertakes, but will aim to create a team ethos across both sectors, in order to ensure we continue to deliver the best care possible to our service users within Aberdeen City.

During recent discussions between colleagues from Podiatry, Nursing and ACVO, we considered ways in which we could work more collaboratively, around potential areas of service delivery that would have the biggest impact on our service users. A few proposals suggestions made by team included: > Support the delivery of dressing stock to

> Support in the management of simple wound care dressing changes: Nursing and Podiatry proposed there may be an the 3rd sector could support us in the opportunity to work with 3rd sector delivery of dressings to service users colleagues on undertaking simple dressing homes. This valuable support would changes for service users. This would enable us to release clinical staff to support service users who would struggle undertake more complex clinical duties. > Support in the delivery of basic foot care - to do this for themselves at home, whilst be that practically or by delivering education also supporting the release of both Nursing and Podiatry staff to undertake more to patients re: self-care: Podiatry have complex clinical duties. observed that a number of their current

our service users’ homes: We would be

keen to explore whether colleagues from

patients and new referrals received are

We hope that by working collaboratively with you, we will be able to continue to care.The Podiatry team recognise the provide the best care to our service users, delivered by the correct person, in a timely importance of an individual’s personal foot care to enable mobility, however this manner. We also envisage by working better together, this will further create task is not provided as part of the opportunities for shared learning and Podiatry service criteria. There is a need career developments for those involved in for education to be provided, in order to ensure that patients are receiving the best this innovative development.

for help in supporting personal foot

care possible and the Podiatry Team would be keen to work collaboratively with our 3rd sector colleagues to explore how best to support individuals with their personal foot care.

If you are interested in discussing this further, please get in contact with Kirsty Symons (NHS Grampian) kirsty.symons@nhs.scot by May 20th 2022

News 19 ACVO May 2022

NEWS

Pinhole photography exhibition carries message of light and peace from Kyiv to Aberdeen A group of staff from Aberdeen City Council’s Archives, Gallery & Museums (AAGM) service is showing their support for the annual Pavlovka Pinhole Festival in Ukraine by staging an exhibition of images from previous Festivals at Aberdeen Maritime Museum (opens Monday 2 May 2022).

The Pavlovka Pinhole Festival has been presented in Kyiv since 2017. Organised by curator Yuliia Belska, the Festival’s goal is to unite international photo artists who use the world’s oldest photographic tradition in their work. The idea to stage the Aberdeen exhibition came from AAGM Exhibition Officer and artist Christopher Bird, who has previously exhibited his work at the Pinhole Festival in Kyiv. The Maritime Museum exhibition features 40 works by 13 international artists. All works are for sale for a minimum donation of £45.

There is also a Festival Retrospective zine publication to accompany the exhibition, available for a minimum donation of £5. Proceeds from sales will go directly to support the Pavlovka Gallery in their efforts to continue to run the Pinhole Festival in a time of war.

Pinhole photography is a versatile and accessible artform popular throughout the world. A pinhole camera is a box with a small hole which allows light from an external scene to pass through, projecting the scene onto the inside of the box. Many practitioners enjoy the challenge of constructing their own pinhole cameras rather than buying them.

Councillor Ryan Houghton, Convenor of the City Growth Committee, said: “I’m pleased that staff from the Archives, Gallery & Museums team have been able to give their time as a mark of support for the curators and artists involved with the Pavlovka Pinhole Festival in Ukraine.

I hope that the exhibition at the Maritime Museum will help maintain the profile of the Festival this year.”

Yuliia Belska, Curator of the Pavlovka Pinhole Festival Restrospective, said: “It was very difficult for me to select photographs for display in the Aberdeen Maritime Museum. Symbolism came to the rescue - the number 13. This is the date of birth of Pavlovka Art Gallery, the date of the first exhibition, which took

place in November 2015. The Aberdeen exhibition presents a slice of the festival - photos from 13 artists from different countries and continents. And we continue to work on the next festival, the theme of which is ‘I, bridge-builder'.

Initially, it involved finding answers to questions about how I form connections, how I play on stage in order to live in this world. But in connection with the hostilities, the subject changed. Now the main message of the festival is ‘Who am I in this war?’ Our weapon is photography, a little black box carrying rays of light and peace.”

Christopher Bird, AAGM Exhibition Officer, said: “My great-grandmother was from Ukraine, and I am pleased to have exhibited at the Pavlovka Pinhole Festival in previous years. I wanted to do something to show my support for the Pavlovka Gallery in their efforts to continue to run the Festival in a time of war. I’m grateful to my Archives, Gallery & Museums colleagues for volunteering their time to make the exhibition possible.”

Just Giving A just giving page has been set up to raise £2,500 to support the ongoing work and artists of the Pavlovka Gallery in Kyiv, Ukraine https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/pavlovkapinholefestaberdeen

The Pavlovka Pinhole Festival Retrospective Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Monday 2 – Sunday 29 May 2022 Monday – Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm Admission free

NEWS

ACVO News 20 May 2022

Charity banking challenges Has your organisation or community group experienced problems with the banking system? Share your experiences in the Civil Society Group survey by May 6th

Aberdeen City Council Long Term The Civil Society Group has been working on helping charities that are Unemployed Fund experiencing problems with banking. This short survey will help to understand the Expressions of interest now open Aberdeen City Council has secured £1.15m from the Scottish Government to support people aged 25+ who are experiencing long term unemployment (defined as 12 or more months out of work) and face additional barriers to employment. This scheme is part of the ‘No One Left Behind’ initiative, which aims to boost employment opportunities and enhance skill levels for people who live in Scotland.

This fund supports people experiencing long term unemployment to develop employability skills and provides valuable work experience, which will support and enable them to remain in employment.

Aberdeen City Council will oversee the delivery of this programme with a range of third and public sector employers.

Through this funding opportunity, employers will identify intermediate opportunities and provide access to skills and training, particularly in sectors where there are currently skills shortages such as health and social care, construction, hospitality and in emerging areas such as green jobs.

Find out more at https://bit.ly/3ydObhB

scale of the challenges so that they can advocate on your behalf to the Charity Commission, government, and the banking sector. It should take you 5-10 minutes to complete.

You can find out more about the Civil Society Group at https://bit.ly/3vDptW1 If you work with multiple charities (for example, you are a trustee of one charity and a paid staff member at another), please complete the survey with ONE charity in mind.

They ask for the name of your organisation purely for data cleansing purposes.

The results of this survey will only be shared in aggregate, unless you give a clear permission to cite your response by ticking "yes" towards the end of the survey.

Even if you give permission to cite your response, we will do so anonymously they will not link your response to the name of your organisation.

The Civil Society Group would be very grateful if you could complete the survey

by Friday 6 May, and circulate it to any other charities that you work with or that you know have had problems with banking.

If you have any questions, please email policy@ncvo.org.uk.

Complete the survey at https://bit.ly/3ydE7oH

News 21 ACVO May 2022

NEWS

ACVO's Mental Health Awareness Week campaign coming May 9th -15th Keep an eye on our social media feeds between 9th - 15th May to follow our Mental Health Awareness Week Campaign.

Mental Health Aberdeen acis youth programme now accepting applications for free Youth Counsellor Training As part of Mental Health Aberdeen, acis youth is built on strong established values of responsible care and nurture. They seek to positively contribute to the health and wellbeing of our communities by ensuring quality therapeutic services are available and accessible to all our children and young people.

About the opportunity, the team at Mental Health Aberdeen said: "Our aspirations are to create a centre of excellence for training and practice in the North East of Scotland. We promote inclusion and responsiveness in our learning and development and are excited to offer this opportunity" Counselling Adolescents using a Relationally Focussed Approach Training Programme Start Date – 24/08/2022 Finish Date – 02/07/2025 Study Mode – Part Time, 3.5 hours per week direct teaching, minimum 2 hours home study per week. One weekend group training event.

Total teaching hours – 450 Entry Process - Written application and Interview Entry Requirements Recognised counselling qualification and / or Therapeutic practitioner with experience of working with children and young people Training Location – Langstane House, 6 Dee Street, Aberdeen, AB11 6DR Application forms and a copy of the course overview can be requested by email: acisyouth.manager@mhaberdeen.org.uk Closing date for applications – 12pm on the 10th June

The 2022 theme for the annual week of awareness is 'loneliness' and we recently met with three Aberdeen based organisations to find out more about their work and how they support people at risk of being isolated and create strong community bonds in the city.

All three of the projects from City Moves, TLC Befriending Project and Aberdeen Methodist Church received funding from Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund in Aberdeen and we are excited to share these stories from the 9th of May. Remember to follow us on social media by following the links below to make sure you don't miss out! The stories will also feature in next month's ACVO News when we take a look back at Mental Health Awareness Week 2022.

NEWS

ACVO News 22 May 2022

Grampian Pride 2022

G

rampian Pride® is back to

Wristband exchanges will take place

have experienced exceptional times

full capacity, after a turbulent 2 years, and they are proud and excited to announce the theme for this year’s LGBT+ Pride event will be ‘just be yourself’, With lots of

at: Four Unity, 33 Regent Quay, from 28th April – 27th May during opening hours (Tuesday-Wednesday 10-6pm & Thursday-Saturday 108pm) or on the day of Pride at Marischal Square between 11am – 1pm & Beach Boulevard between 12pm – 4pm.

over the last 2 years, and many local charities and community organisations rely on Pride for interactions & engagements.

Therefore, there will be a large charity area, in the Pride Village between 1pm – 5pm"

rainbows, glitter & music.

Grampian, it's time to come together to celebrate and embrace diversity and inclusion. Pride's sole ethos is to promote respect within our community and support local charities and causes through fundraising and awareness.

Grampian Pride® 2022 will be taking over the city streets on Saturday 28th May 2022, leaving from Holburn Junction at 11am and Finishing at Marischal College around 12pm. Followed by a Pride Village at Beach Boulevard from 1pm – 8pm with fun and entertainment for the whole family.

The Team are thrilled to announce the Headlining performer for this years main stage is 2013 X Factor UK finalist, Sam Callahan.

Free wristbands can now be ordered via the Grampian Pride® website; grampianpride.org.

Deejay Bullock, Event lead said “It’s important after these challenging times we are able to bring the community back together. To show individuals, that may have been feeling isolated or excluded, that they are not alone and there is a large community around them. It is vital that during these times we don’t forget our LGBT+ community, we have to remember our history, celebrate our present and embrace our future.

"The LGBT+ Pride event is organised entirely by volunteers and all money raised for the event goes back into putting together a fun filled FREE family day where we get to remember our history, celebrate our present & embrace our future as a community. We are all aware we

Mr Bullock added "We are aiming to recreate 2019, with better weather, with the parade and village times, activities being almost identical.

Whilst it is important to grow it’s even more important to have a familiar setting and we believe Grampian Pride 2022 will create that. However, we couldn’t do that without this years sponsors and supporters: BP, Baker Hughes, CNR International, Granite Elite, Shell, Unite Students, Petrofac, Siberia Bar & Hotel, Spirit Energy, Unite, CMS Law, GSK, HSBC, Stork, Wood, Granite City Events & The Balloon Studio" If you want to learn more about Grampian Pride® , attend, sponsor or volunteer for the day then visit: grampianpride.org

ACVO News 23 May 2022

NEWS

Aberdeen Foyer Awarded a Nationwide Community Grant to help alleviate youth homelessness in the Northeast

A

6 young people. The

berdeen Foyer, a northeast charity supporting people experiencing difficult life situations such as poverty, unemployment, and homelessness, has been awarded a grant through Nationwide Building Society to enable the coproduction of six additional affordable homes for young people in Aberdeen City.

funds from Nationwide

The Nationwide Community Grant will provide the means to recruit support staff that will co-ordinate delivery of a pre-apprenticeship project with young people to renovate properties. When complete, the properties will provide modernised, safe accommodation for young people at an affordable cost.

local authorities in the

Learning, training and skills development acquired during the project will be accredited at SQA/ City & Guilds to optimise employability and learning opportunities for young people. Links will be established with employers to create further opportunities for work experience.

affordable cost will give at least 6

Aberdeen Foyer has previously secured funding from LandAid to refurbish empty properties to create quality, affordable tenancies for up to

it means to be a building society for

will engage support staff to enable the package of investment to be unlocked.

Chief Executive Leona McDermid said: “Over 30% of people who present as homeless to Northeast are young people aged 16-25. That equates to around 850 young people each year and is well above the national average. Being able to access safe, refurbished accommodation at an young people not only security but a chance to access education and work, to build their confidence and move on to a more positive future."

Craig Taylor, Social Investment Manager, Nationwide Building Society said: Helping local communities is at the heart of what Nationwide. Thanks to our Community Grants programme, we are so thrilled to be able to award £50,000 to Aberdeen Foyer, knowing this will make a positive difference to so many individuals in

the local community. Local charities have been hit by the pandemic and anything we can do to support and help them continue their valuable work with local communities is so important.”

Aberdeen Foyer has over 25 years’ experience in helping to alleviate youth homelessness across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire and it works with around 130 young people daily, either as as tenants who have experienced homelessness or those who are disengaged from education, at risk of homelessness or not living at home but are under 16.

News 25 ACVO May 2022

NEWS

Befriend a Child challenges participants to take on 5K a day for the month of May to raise funds for their programmes supporting disadvantaged local children exercises, stretches, 5K route ideas, and motivational messages to help encourage them each day.

‘We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has taken part in our 5K a day challenge in previous years, and to all of the new faces who have signed up to take part this year.

Thanks to you, we are able to continue our work supporting children and young people in the local community who need it most.’– Katie Kyle, Head of Fundraising and Marketing, Befriend a Child.

Befriend a Child have recently launched their annual 5K a Day for the Month of May Challenge to help raise money for their programmes and projects supporting children in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire.

Participants of the challenge can choose whether they would like to walk, run, jog, or cycle 5K every day throughout May and they can take part solo as a personal fitness challenge or with friends, family, and colleagues. It costs just £5 to sign up for the challenge and those taking part will receive a Befriend a Child sports t-shirt, a calendar diary to keep track of their 5Ks, and access

to a closed Facebook community group where they will be coached and guided through the experience by local fitness experts.

‘We’re delighted our 5k a Day Challenge is back for 2022. The Facebook group will be jam packed with content to keep our participants motivated throughout the challenge and we can’t wait to get started.’ – Tara Morrison, Fundraising and Marketing Co-ordinator.

The Befriend a Child team and fitness experts will be on hand to provide support to 5K a Day participants throughout the challenge. By joining the Facebook group, individuals will receive fitness tips, nutrition advice,

Children who are growing up in difficult life circumstances are referred for support from Befriend a Child through approved referral partners. Children can be referred for a number of reasons, they may be experiencing lack of confidence, low self-esteem, or social isolation. They may be suffering abuse and neglect at home, have a parent who is struggling with substance misuse, or they may be in need of a positive adult role model. Having the 1:1 support of a befriender or mentor can have a transformational effect on these children, allowing them the opportunity to experience more of what life has to offer and create happy childhood memories.

To find out how you can get involved with the challenge, simply visit the challenge JustGiving page below: https://www.justgiving.com/campai gn/5Kaday2022

ACVO News 26 May 2022

G

amCare is an independent UK charity providing information, advice and

support for anyone affected by gambling-related harms, due to their own gambling or someone else’s gambling. It provides a range of support for people struggling with the impact of gambling on their lives.

The organisation operates the National Gambling Helpline, which gives confidential information, advice and support for anyone affected by gambling problems across the four nations. Individuals can speak to advisers one-to-one over the phone or on live chat 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Advice is free, flexible and confidential.

We spoke with Margaret MacLachlan, Training and Engagement Lead for GamCare’s Women’s Programme in Scotland, about the work of the organisation and the issues around gambling in relation to women.

What does your role at GamCare involve?

I’m involved with our Women’s Programme in Scotland and, like our other services, it’s available nationwide. The service has been delivered online so far but we are pleased now to host face to face provision and can offer organisations a 20 - 30 minute introductory session which outlines the harms to women of problem gambling and the routes into support and treatment or a two-hour interactive workshop, which goes more in depth and aims to help make problem gambling more identifiable for practitioners working with women in both generic and gender specific services.

These sessions are operated free of charge and can really help organisations, and individuals working within them, to start thinking about the impact gambling has on women and can equip them with the language and knowledge to be able to start the conversation about it with the people they support.

Why do you think it’s important to raise awareness about gambling addiction?

The understanding of gambling as an addiction is 10 – 15 years behind that of alcohol and drugs. No-one would suggest that the issues of drug and alcohol addiction are not very important but equally it’s not

small proportion of women affected by gambling-related harms are currently reaching out for support. GamCare is concerned that many people still think of gambling as a ‘male issue’, and that stigma and shame prevent women from coming forward.

My role is to provide free training, resources and ongoing support to

commonly known that the number of people who commit suicide as a result

professionals, staff and volunteers in organisations across Scotland to help

of gambling is greater than that of those with a drug and alcohol addiction.

them recognise and respond to signs of gambling-related harm so that more women are empowered to access treatment and support services. It is important to raise the issue of gambling so that people feel that it is a topic that they can speak about and also understand that there is help and support available.

Research also suggests that only a very

How has the covid pandemic and the availability of gambling via online platforms impacted the issue?

The pandemic forced many of us to spend much more time at home and indoors, creating more opportunities for women to gamble. Add to this the financial stresses of the last year, the impact of furlough, the pressure of being primary caregivers and the distraction that gambling and gaming provides, created for some a perfect storm resulting in more women gambling now than ever before.

27

ACVO News May 2022

a hidden

addiction Margaret MacLachlan, Training and Engagement Lead for GamCare’s Women’s Programme in Scotland shares how the organisation are working to limit the impact of gambling harms across the country.

The majority of women calling GamCare speak about issues with online gambling. Using online and mobile based gambling platforms are particularly problematic as they are easy to access wherever you are and it can be easier to hide from others if a problem is developing.

treatment available for them.

Research shows that 82% of women who gamble use online services

accessibility of specialist support tailored to those identifying as female,

through their phone or personal devices, either through a game or app, rather than take part in gambling in person, such as at a casino or betting shop.

and to ensure that organisations supporting women can confidently identify gambling harm and easily refer to the appropriate support services.

Gambling addiction is sometimes described as being invisible, is this something you have come across in your work?

Yes, I often refer to gambling problems as a hidden addiction as there are no physical signs unlike with alcohol or drugs. When I talk to different organisations about gambling and its associated harms many of them tell me that they don’t have people coming forward and raising this. However, often when I ask them if they mention gambling in their screening questions they say no.

People facing harm from gambling will only start asking for help when they know people are willing to raise this issue and that there is support and

What are the aims of GamCare’s Women’s Programme?

GamCare’s Women’s Programme is designed to gather and represent the experiences of women affected by gambling harms, to improve the

Women can be disproportionately affected by gambling-related harms, experiencing financial, relationship and mental health issues as a result. All across the UK, GamCare’s Women’s Programme is uncovering the negative impact of stigma faced by women and is working to place women at the heart of the discussion.

Women experience guilt and shame about their gambling and societal expectations of being care givers can increase the stigma which means women may be less likely to seek help for fear of judgement.

What outcomes would you like to see from the training you offer? Are there any types of organisations in particular you would like to work with or think would benefit from it?

We deliver gambling awareness to professionals that work with women to raise awareness, knowledge and understanding of gambling related harm in relation to women (including gamblers and affected others) and to upskill their practice by increasing their confidence to identify and support affected women and to signpost them to appropriate services. We want to ensure that individuals know that there

ACVO News 28 May 2022 are support and treatment services

respectively), things have changed a lot

shame are a key barrier to women

available and they are aware of how to access them.

in the past five years in terms of the impact of the pandemic and availability

disclosing concerns, either about their own gambling or someone close to

It is vital that people start talking about gambling. We need to raise awareness,

of gambling apps and online platforms.

to destigmatise it and to make people aware it’s not something to be ashamed of. At GamCare, we want to work with any organisation that comes into contact with both men and women who may present with issues that could be

women do not see what they are doing as gambling. Often the forms of gambling that women engage in, such as bingo, are seen as being social pastimes and targeted ads online, as well as those featured on TV, reinforce

them. The Women’s Programme works to reduce stigma, which affects women at risk of experiencing gambling harm

caused by gambling harms.

and reflect this idea.

When it comes to those experiencing issues with gambling, is there a difference between men and women

Why do you think it’s important for GamCare to ensure that

in terms of numbers of those affected or the types of gambling that takes place?

Gambling is a national issue which cuts across all demographics of society and genders. The 2017 Scottish Health Survey reported that six in ten (63%) adults in Scotland had gambled within the previous 12 months, and that one in 100 Scottish adults were classified as problem gamblers.

Although the 2017 survey saw that the percentage of the male population who gamble on a regular basis was slightly higher than females (66% and 60%

One of the big issues is that a lot of

organisations start the conversation around gambling addiction and learn ways of supporting people who are affected by it?

and to better understand and break down the barriers they face when seeking treatment. Over the next year, we want to continue to raise awareness of how gambling harm affects women and to signpost the gambling support services available for women.

If you are struggling to manage, you are not alone. Our free service operates 24/7, on the phone and via live chat. If you need us, we are here. Anyone can call on 0808 8020 133 and speak to an advisor or contact the Helpline on live

Over the past year, we’ve seen an increase in the percentage of women

chat through the GamCare website, where they can also access a range of

contacting the National Gambling Helpline for support. In response to

resources and be referred for free, confidential support sessions which

that, I’m glad to say we have also seen improved access for women using

includes a women’s only chat room and women-only support group.

GamCare’s treatment and support service as well as increased reach in

Together we can raise awareness, offer

our professionals training, which delivers improved understanding of how gambling harm impacts women.

At GamCare, we know that stigma and

support and reduce the harms of gambling across the UK.

ACVO News 30 May 2022

ABERDEEN CARES: CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF VOLUNTARY SERVICES ABERDEEN Exhibition open at Aberdeen Art Gallery until Sunday 29 May 2022

A n e w e x h ib it io n a t A b e r d e e n A r t G a l l e r y m a r k i n g t h e 1 5 0 t h a n n iv e r s a r y o f A b e r d e e n A s s o c i a t i o n o f S o c ia l S e r v ic e , k n o w n l o c a l l y a s V S A , o p e n e d t o t h e p u b lic o n S a t u r d a y 1 2 t h M a r c h .

Since 1870 Aberdeen Association of Social Service (VSA), has stood next to the people of the city, offering care, support, and vital services to vulnerable people in our communities. To mark the organisation’s 150th anniversary, this exhibition, which is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, explores VSA’s role in the history of social care in Aberdeen.

Alexander Nicol, a former Lord Provost of Aberdeen (18651869), was inspired after his term in office to establish an organisation that could help change the lives of people living in poverty across the city for the better. Every Lord Provost of Aberdeen serves as President of VSA. Lynne Clark, who has curated the exhibition for VSA, gathered together 150 stories from archives across the city as inspiration for the exhibition’s themes. Aberdeen Cares highlights the impact of human kindness through poignant and inspirational personal stories, archival photography, documentsByand objects associated with care giving in Sonya Bunggi Aberdeen.and Liceria S

31

ACVO News May 2022

To find out more about the exhibition and the inspiration behind it, we headed along to Aberdeen Art Gallery to meet VSA Chief Executive, Kenneth Simpson and Lead Curator, Lynne Clark.

Find out more in our latest ACVO profile film.

ACVO News 32 May 2022

CHANGING LIVES WITH GUIDE DOGS

33 ACVO News May 2022

"A

guide dog is vitally important for my lifestyle. Although I can use a long cane I don’t have as much independence as I do when I have a dog with me” said Mary.

Although Ells is not a guide dog owner herself, her partner, Bob, is.

Ells also owns two service dogs which has given her a first hand insight and appreciation of the importance of assistance and service dogs in people’s lives.

“Since Nelson passed away I’ve not been able to go out for my normal daily walks. I’ve currently got two routes that I can follow with the cane but with a dog I’m able to go nearly anywhere I want to. Having a dog is an essential part of my lifestyle and enables me also to be fully involved with a lot of the work I undertake with Guide Dogs as an organisation – it allowed me to visit the cross party group in Edinburgh at the Scottish Parliament and to visit organisations and universities to talk about issues.”

“I've been volunteering with Guide Dogs for 10 years now but it was just over the past few years that we have been doing the Kiltwalk. We were offered the opportunity to give it a go and to see if we were able, we walk anyway together usually a couple of times a week and also walk with a group called Walkability, who help people with physical and sight and hearing impairments to go up in to the hills. so we decided maybe we could maybe push ourselves a little bit further and complete the walk”, said Ells

"With Guide Dogs, people are getting something that is going to change their life completely and allow them to do everything that they want to"

ACVO News 34 May 2022

“We weren’t sure if we would manage the whole route at first – the virtual one that was hosted last year, we did that over a three day weekend. It was absolutely hilarious and we ended up in all sorts of places. We think it’s such a fantastic set up as the funds we raise are topped up 50% by Kiltwalk so we can raise even more money to support the work of Guide Dogs.

"One of the really enjoyable parts of the training and the walk itself is the social aspect - you get to meet lots of lovely people and when you're talking and walking, you kind of forget the distance you covering, you get chatting and you've done a couple of miles before you realise it. It takes your mind off the sore feet and the aches and the pains. We also get to meet other dogs as well, which is always good with me!”

When asked if they were raising money to support a particular area of Guide Dog’s work, Mary and Ells talked about their motivation for doing the Kiltwalk this year; Mary’s dog, Nelson.

as it grows up to hopefully become another guide dog which will give someone their independence and mobility back. We hope that this puppy will become an inspirational dog like Nelson was."

“Nelson, my German Shepherd sadly died last year” said Mary. “He was an inspirational guide dog and really was everybody’s best friend. Over the years he raised a lot of money for Guide Dogs too – we attended Highland Games, Agricultural Shows, collected money at supermarkets and everyone always wanted to come and meet him.”

“That’s a hugely motivating factor for us” added Ells. “People forget that Guide Dogs isn't a dog charity, it's actually a charity for people with sight impairment and dogs play a huge part in the support they offer around this issue.”

“The funds we raise from the Kiltwalk will go towards a name a puppy scheme which we will do in Nelson’s memory – it costs £5000 and we hope to achieve this with our fundraising efforts. The scheme will allow us not only to name the puppy in memory of Nelson but also see it

“With Guide Dogs, people are getting something that is going to change their life completely and allow them to do everything that they want to. As Mary mentioned she is able to use her cane but a dog is something completely different; it’s a member of your family. You can’t cuddle or pat your cane or take it for a walk. A cane won't give you companionship"

“The biggest thing with the cane is it keeps you safe” continues Mary.

“It can tell you where potholes are and curbs and so on, you can find the tactile, but can't remember the route. So having a dog opens up the possibility of greater independence.

“We hear stories all the time of how Guide Dogs can transform lives – one of our pups raised in Aberdeen over the past few years came to guide a 16 year old boy.

His family had never had a dog before so were a bit apprehensive at first but when they saw what a lovely dog it was, and the huge benefit it brought to their son they quickly warmed to the idea.

“Having a guide dog allowed the boy in that story to move away from home and he recently graduated with a degree in music from Cambridge. We hear stories like this all time and it really shows the benefit Guide Dogs can bring to people.”

Mary and Els will undertake the Kiltwalk on May 29th to raise money to name a guide dog puppy in memory of Nelson. If you would like to contribute to the campaign you can make a donation at https://bit.ly/GuideDogsKiltwalk

VOLUNTEERING

ACVO News 36 May 2022

Volunteering

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

Volunteers Week to Kickstart Month of Community

News 37 ACVO May 2022

VOLUNTEERING

The Month of Community is a time when we come together to celebrate everything that makes our communities great. It's an opportunity to bring our neighbourhoods closer, give back, and shine a light on the amazing communities we live in.

A tremendous Month of Community will start in June with Volunteers Week from the 1st-7th June 2022. The annual national event celebrates the millions of incredible volunteers throughout the country who are making such a positive difference for our local communities, the voluntary/third sector and society as a whole.

The main focus and theme for this year is ‘Thank You!’ to all volunteers-recognising that volunteers are at the heart of every community. Ahead of this years Volunteers Week Paul O’Connor MBE, Chair of ACVO has this great message for all volunteers in Aberdeen:

‘On behalf of the board of ACVO, I would like to thank all of Aberdeen's wonderful volunteers who give so selflessly for the charities, organisations, community groups, and causes of our city. You all generously give others your greatest asset, your time, and in doing so you make such an important and profound impact on the lives of so many people across Aberdeen. To me, you are Aberdeen's greatest asset, and the board of ACVO thank you all for making such an important difference to the lives of thousands of our citizens.’

- Paul O'Connor MBE, Chair of ACVO TSI

How to get involved: Volunteers Week 2022 Website has lots of great updates, ideas, links, resources and downloads to help thank volunteers and celebrate Volunteers Week (find out more at volunteersweek.scot) ACVO is planning a special Volunteers Week ‘Thank You Volunteers’ feature in ACVO News of thank you messages and testimonials from Volunteer Co-ordinators/organisations to their volunteers (plus we will also read out thank you volunteers messages on the So Why Don’t You programme on SHMUfm). Please feel welcome to email any message/testimonial for your volunteers to mike.melvin@acvo.org.uk Join in with the Volunteers' Week campaign in Scotland by using the official #VolunteersWeekScot hashtag on social media and also tag in @Aberdeen_ACVO and @VolWeekScot on twitter and we will be sure to retweet to help spread the word.

Also follow Volunteers Week Scotland on Twitter and Instagram @VolWeekScot

@volunteersweekscot

The Month of Community: for details about everything happening throughout the Month of Community please visit https://www.edenprojectcommunities.com/month-ofcommunity

VOLUNTEERING

ACVO News 38 May 2022

See Me Launches New Volunteering Strategy See Me has launched an excellent new Volunteering Strategy in recognition of the importance of volunteers and to help people across Scotland to take action to end mental health stigma and discrimination.

Launching the brand-new Volunteer Strategy – ‘See Me, See You, See Us’ - See Me Director Wendy Halliday said: “It’s no exaggeration when I say we couldn’t do what we do without the views, experiences and expertise of our volunteers at See Me. It’s vital that we make sure that everyone who gives their time to help us in our work to end mental health stigma and discrimination has a meaningful experience – and that they’re able to contribute in a way which contributes towards real change. See Me, See You, See Us is designed to ensure that our volunteer programme is beneficial for everyone. I’m so impressed by all of the work our volunteers already do, and I can’t wait to see what more we achieve together under the direction of the new strategy.”

Further details about See Me and the new Volunteer Strategy are available at https://bit.ly/3LrUKAS

Quality Standards in Volunteering online sessions from Volunteer Scotland

Volunteer Scotland invite you to join in this free workshop where they will discuss the Quality Standard and the Quality Pipeline, to provide you with more information on each product, the standards, process and the difference this can make to volunteers experience.

This workshop will help you make the right development step for your volunteer programme. This is an information workshop, you will not be required to sign up to a quality standard after this event.

All sessions will cover the same information and topics. Please select only one date when booking on the dates below Tuesday, 07 June 2022 at 14:00 Thursday, 15 September 2022 at 14:00 Wednesday, 07 December 2022 at 14:00 Tuesday, 14 March 2023 at 14:00 Find out more are book at https://bit.ly/3rWQCkH

News 39 ACVO May 2022

VOLUNTEERING

VOLUNTEERING

ACVO News 40 May 2022

Volunteers wanted for Aberdeen RNLI

News 41 ACVO May 2022

NEWS

Volunteers are the heart of the RNLI, They are ordinary people who do extraordinary things and without them we couldn’t save lives at sea. Aberdeen RNLI lifeboat station is currently on the look out for volunteers to join their lifesaving crew and onshore fundraising support teams.

T

The local lifeboat station in Aberdeen currently has 24 crew and 12 onshore operations

support volunteers who are vital in ensuring that the lifeboat is crewed and ready to launch 24/7, 365 days a year. Volunteers come from all walks of life and all training is provided.

The volunteer crew at RNLI are the backbone of the lifeboat service, physically saving lives at sea. They are available 24/7, whatever the weather, to rescue those in need of help. Volunteer lifeboat crew members, together with the coxswain and/or helm, operate the lifeboats during rescues and ensure the safety of casualties. As well as going out on rescues, lifeboat crew members also commit to regular training in boat handling, radio communications, casualty care, navigation and radar operation.

John Strathearn, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Aberdeen RNLI, said: “Life as a crew member is anything but predictable. You can be expected to be called away from family, your bed or work at any time, so it is a big commitment, but it is also incredibly rewarding.

In return, we offer extensive training and support for our volunteers.

and that the station is kept in operational condition.

“We speak to members of the public all the time who don’t realise that the lifeboat service is a charity and that our crew are volunteers. But, they’re ready to drop everything to get into their kit and head to sea in all weathers to save lives at sea.

Volunteering for the lifeboat station in Aberdeen is a great way to support the local community, learn new skills and volunteer alongside a fantastic crew of passionate people.”

Donald Montgomery, Chairperson of Aberdeen & District RNLI Lifeboat Fundraising Branch, commented: “We rely on the generosity of our supporters to help us meet operational running costs with the dedication of our fundraising volunteers to help raise these essential funds. The RNLI currently has around 23,000 community volunteers across the country who are committed to raising funds to save lives at sea.

Volunteer crew should be relatively local to the station, with suitable transportation in order to respond quickly to a shout and work in a role and location that will allow them flexibility to act at when the pager goes.

It costs over £181.5m to keep the RNLI operational around the country and around 95% of total income comes from donations. But, without the support of fundraising volunteers, the RNLI could not operate in the city.

Raising funds through events in both local community and business engagement, ensures that Aberdeen’s lifeboats boats’, Bon Accord and Buoy Woody 85N, are operational; that receive vital training and equipment;

“Our fundraising roles are flexible to suit your lifestyle. If you’re looking to join a committed and fun group of people, learn new skills and give back to your local community, we want to hear from you.”

For more information about volunteer crew positions, please contact the Aberdeen lifeboat station at email: aberdeen@rnli.org.uk and for fundraising roles, please contact email rnli.aberdeen@gmail.com More information is also available at facebook.com/AberdeenLifeboat and rnli.org/support-us/volunteer

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

ACVO News 42 May 2022

Playgroup Support Volunteers – Aberdeen North Parish The latest from our team.

This is a fantastic opportunity to use current child care and hospitality skills or to develop new ones. The playgroup is well attended and is a wonderful atmosphere. Duties include helping with setting out toys, craft activities, snacks and occasional help with teas and coffees for parents/carers.

There is opportunity to develop skills in leading craft, story time and games if desired. Volunteers would engage with the children during free play, being mindful of health and safety, modelling sharing, praising children’s creative ideas etc.

Volunteers would be warm and welcoming to parents and carers encouraging them to engage in play with their children and stepping in to play while parents/carers have a chance for a cuppa. Duties also include tidying up, cleaning the assigned toy set , and putting away toys and crafts.

Excellent support and guidance is provided to all volunteers. Volunteers will be given an induction into the roles and tasks.

Through an informal chat we will agree the volunteers experience and identify together the needs for support and training or if the candidate is experienced, responsibilities for the person. All requests for training will be discussed and considered. Support will take the form of a team and individual check in before and after each playgroup session.

This is a joyful, fun team who work hard to ensure the children and families have a positive and enjoyable experience while they are with us. You would be a welcome member of our team. This is a term time opportunity on Thursday’s. The group runs from 1pm until 2:30pm. Volunteers are needed from 12:30 until 3pm each week.

If you are interested in helping and for more details please contact Claire van Geete, Children and Families Development Worker at email: CVanGeete@churchofscotland.org.uk or tel.: 07526465105.

I Bike Volunteers Aberdeen – Sustrans Scotland Are you passionate about cycling and walking? Could you inspire young people in Aberdeen to cycle or walk more? Volunteer with I Bike!

I Bike is a really fun and rewarding project to volunteer with that offers plenty of opportunities to get outdoors for cyclingrelated activities, boost the CV, gain experience of work with children and young people, meet new people and learn new skills.

Good training and support is provided to all volunteers including an online Welcome Session, Child Protection Training, Cycling Skills and Bike Repairs. For most activities you don’t have to own a bike to join in – bikes and helmets can be provided depending on availability.

I Bike aims to help children and young people become more active through taking part in cycling and walking activities. You would be volunteering alongside a dedicated I Bike Officer in schools, supporting activities for children such as learn to cycle, playground cycle skills, led bike rides, led walks, bike maintenance and much more! What could be better than helping children to ride their bike without stabilisers for the first time?

Hear from some of our fantastic volunteers via our website link at https://ibike.sustrans.org.uk/home/volunteers/ We advocate for volunteering for all – please talk to us if you have any accessibility requirements or other specific requirements.

A fantastic opportunity to help. All volunteers make a real difference and are greatly appreciated. For further details please contact Anna Whealing, Project Officer, I Bike Volunteering, Sustrans Scotland at email: Anna.Whealing@sustrans.org.uk

Volunteer Befrienders – TLC Befriending Service Everyone can feel lonely and isolated at times, especially if experiencing hardship.

This year, in response to the crippling effects of loneliness and isolation on peoples wellbeing (physical, emotional, social and mental health), that the pandemic has only exacerbated, TLC have responded to this need and developed a befriending service to combat the loneliness and isolation felt by many in our city.

Our aim is that our expertly trained and compassionate volunteers will 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 team.

For further information please contact Jonny Astill, Development Manager at email: jonny@tlc.org.uk or tel.: 07859 771292.

Details also available at: https://www.tlc.org.uk/befriending

News 43 ACVO May 2022

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

Northfield Youth Hub Volunteers The latest from our team.

If you are interested in helping your community then this is for you! Helping through volunteering with a multi-agency group who will support each other in delivering a new youth hub for the young people and wider community in Northfield.

The Northfield Youth Hub have a number of great ways you can join us and help including volunteering as Chair, Treasurer or Secretary These are fantastic opportunities to make a real difference for young people and the community. All volunteers are greatly appreciated.

For further details about any of the roles and ways you can assist the Northfield Youth Hub please contact Derek Bain, Partnership Development Officer at email: derek.bain@scotland.police.uk or telephone: 01224 301068.

Grampian Pride 2022 Volunteers – Grampian Pride Grampian (which takes place on Saturday 28th May 2022) is going to be a really exciting, important and fun event The Pride latest from our team. positive and colourful - so a great way to spend a few hours and volunteer.

Volunteers are an important and integral part of Grampian Pride and all volunteers at Grampian Pride will receive excellent support, induction for each role you undertake and will receive special rainbow lanyards plus free food and drink. It’s not just rewarding but exciting and extremely important too! Help us make a fantastic Pride event for the entire community and get those warm fuzzy feelings knowing that you’ve helped to make it happen!

Volunteer opportunities at Grampian Pride include: *Parade welcomers *Parade guides *Parade stewards *Venue decorators *Pride Village Stewards *Key volunteer leads *Parade litter pickers *Leaflet distributers *Wristband distributers *Venue support *Site build *Site decoration *Site stewards *First aid volunteers (to assist British Red Cross First Aiders on site) *Survey taking *Litter control *Site de-rig support *Venue support *Event and Awareness Support *Site build support *De-rig support In return for your amazing help not only will you gain the experience of being involved in a large and major event and receive training, we’ll also make sure that you’re fed and watered throughout the day for FREE and you can also get free tickets (for yourself and a guest) to the EXCLUSIVE Grampian Pride VIP After-Party!!

For more information and to volunteer please contact volunteer@grampianpride.org or register to volunteer at https://www.grampianpride.org/volunteer/

National Galleries Scotland (Aberdeen Virtual Projects): The latestVolunteers from our team.

Research Do you have an eye for detail? Do you love delving deep into a project? Would you like to learn more about the history of fishing in Scotland? If so, then join us a Research Volunteer!

This is an exciting time for the National Galleries of Scotland, as we are currently undergoing a major redevelopment to make Gallery spaces more accessible, and better showcase the incredible collection of Scottish art.

Many pieces in the collection reflect the importance of fishing in Scotland’s history- whether that is the towns built around the industry, or the boats themselves.

We are looking for volunteers to undergo a research project at the Aberdeen Maritime Museum studying the history of fishing in your area where you can - study the records and resources at the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, whether photographs, written records or objects and compile information about this topic. You will be provided with a framework to help you write down your information; share this information over video conferencing software with other volunteers doing similar research across Scotland and with staff from the National Galleries.

This research ix being saved in our records to inform interpretation of pieces in the collection and potentially being shared on the Scottish National Gallery Webpage For further information please contact Edith MacDougall, Project Volunteer Coordinator at EMacDougall@nationalgalleries.org

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

ACVO News 44 May 2022

Community Connectors – Suicide Prevention Project – Community Planning Aberdeen This is an opportunity to directly inform and collaborate with agencies working to reduce suicide in Aberdeen. Community Planning Aberdeen* is working to improve mental wellbeing and has a project focused on raising awareness of how we can all make a difference to reducing suicide.

Improving mental wellbeing is a priority within the North, South and Central Locality plans and our communities through their Plans have identified ideas that could help reduce suicide and improve mental wellbeing.

We now need COMMUNITY CONNECTORS to help make sure the development of this project and the ideas for improvement continue to be informed by and are linked back to our communities.

As a Community Connector you will be the “connection” between the reducing suicide project and your community. You will be supported to provide updates to your Locality Engagement Group (LEG) or Priority Neighbourhood Partnership (PNP) meeting. For more information about the role of a Community Connector and the support that we will offer, please visit https://communityplanningaberdeen.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Community-Connector.pdf A fantastic opportunity to help and make a difference for the community. All help is greatly appreciated.

For further details please email: LocalityPlanning@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Volunteer Treasurer / Bookkeeper – Aberdeen World Day The latestMela-One from our team.

Aberdeen Mela-One World Day (OWD) will return in 2022. Aberdeen’s biggest celebration of cultural diversity across the North East of Scotland. Food, music, dance and children’s activities will bring Westburn Park to life this August in an allencompassing festival of multiculturalism.

We are looking for a volunteer Treasurer/Bookkeeper to assist our steering group in making the MELA a reality in 2022.

This is an exciting opportunity to be closely involved with one of the most important expressions of the cultural diversity of north-east Scotland.

We need you to provide the steering group with financial information and forecasts to enable the best decisions to be made.

This opportunity would suit someone with a background in accountancy or book-keeping.

Familiarity with Bank of Scotland account management software would be an advantage but training will be provided.

We anticipate this being a commitment of about 2 hours per week. Part of that would be reporting to the steering group in person or via Zoom. This would sometimes be in an evening.

The period of time for the opportunity would be from the present to the end of September. The Mela itself takes place in August and we would ask the volunteer to assist in preparing reports from the event itself.

For further information please contact Ahashan Habib, CEO at email: mela@abmc.org.uk or telephone: 01224 561992.

Group Helpers-Barnardo’s Aberdeen Young Carers The latest from our team.

A young carer is someone up to the age of 18 who provides unpaid help and support to a relative, friend or neighbour who due to illness or disability cannot manage to live independently without the carer’s help. It may involve practical support like cooking, housework, or emotional support.

A group volunteer with Aberdeen Young Carers will assist staff members in delivering any planned activities e.g. arts and crafts, baking etc. They will actively participate with the activity, encourage young people to join in and have fun and build up positive relationships with the children and young people by being friendly and non-judgemental. They will also have the opportunity to lead groups if they wish to.

At this time we are predominantly looking for volunteers for our weekly sports groups alongside Sport Aberdeen – these will be held at multiple schools in Aberdeen City on various days at various times. Some will be after school or at lunchtime and we will be looking for a commitment of an hour a week during term-time.

There will also be the opportunity for volunteers to help with our monthly groups, school holiday programmes, on an ad-hoc basis or at events. Events typically include summer outings, Christmas parties and Young Carers’ festivals. Further opportunities are available to assist in promoting our events e.g. putting up posters and spreading the word, in helping us at groups.

To apply for this role – please visit: https://volunteer.barnardos.org.uk/opportunities/16049-children-s-activity-support-grouphelper-aberdeen-young-carers-2020-11-24 or contact Jacqui Hall, Volunteer Coordinator at email jacqui.hall@barnardos.org.uk / telephone: 07783 848410 for any more details.

News 45 ACVO May 2022

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

Disability Equity Partnership Volunteer Members The Partnership works to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and to break down barriers, overcome challenges and improve quality of life.

The group comprises approximately 15 members of the public, working with five local councillors, and its vision is to: a) To bring about improvements to the lives of people in Aberdeen City who experience exclusion because of disability by promoting a rights-based approach to disability equality. b) To create a society where disabled people are valued, respected and included in the life of the City. c) To encourage and promote inclusion and equality. d) To create fair opportunity by identifying and removing the disabling barriers which disabled people face daily including prejudice, discrimination and negative attitudes. e) To provide a means of partnership, consultation and joint action with Aberdeen City Council Meetings are held at Aberdeen Town House (entrance from Queen Street, Aberdeen). There is also the option to join the meeting remotely if you choose to do so. The Disability Equity Partnership (DEP) has 6 meetings over the year. Examples of projects we have been working on include the City Centre Masterplan, Union Terrace Gardens, webpage and information accessibility to reduce barriers and improve access to information, goods and services.

Excellent support and relevant training is provided to all volunteers. Volunteers will be offered training on Equalities and the role of the group and the council.

For further details please contact Baldeep McGarry, Equalities Officer at email: BMcGarry@aberdeencity.gov.uk or tel.: 07767353006.

We Too! Kiltie – We Too! Charity The2022 latest our to team.

29th May - Wefrom are looking recruit Kilties for the Kilt walk. These are people that help at the event like Route Motivator Kiltie, Pit Stop Kilties, Driver Kiltie and more! This amazing event brings people closer together and everyone has a great time.

About We Too! - As parents ourselves of children with Additional Support Needs, we were becoming increasingly frustrated with the fragmentation of information out there. A website here, a facebook page there and word of mouth from other parents. We wondered why nobody was putting this information into one manageable magazine for parents like us to use, pass on and contribute too. We set to work and the concept of "WeToo! Magazine" quickly grew supporters and we have been brave enough to take the leap! We hope you enjoy what you read – help us to help other parents too! This is by parents, and for parents, and after all for our children it's about WeToo! Contact Sofie Munro at sofie@wetoo.org.uk for more information

Collection Can Volunteer (Aberdeen) – Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland Being a Collection Can Volunteer is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the success of a leading health charity and make a real difference to the people we support. As a CHSS Collecting Can Volunteer, you will play a key role in sourcing new collecting can sites, helping to raise awareness and vital funds to ensure Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland continues to support people who are living with effects of stroke, chest and heart conditions in Scotland.

Your role will include: * Placing CHSS charity collection cans in shops, local businesses, and community venues. * Regularly revisiting the sites where you have placed the collecting can, emptying the can and supporting the site holder with any queries or concerns. * Counting, banking and recording the income from your collecting cans.

Flexible times available to assist-volunteering as a Collection Can Volunteer is very flexible and can be done in your own time.

All help makes a difference and is greatly appreciated.

Excellent support and relevant guidance is provided to all volunteers. You will be fully supported to undertake your role safely and effectively. You will be supported by designated CHSS Fundraising member of staff who will be your main point of contact.

A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference. For more details please contact us at volunteering@chss.org.uk or visit our website at https://www.chss.org.uk/volunteer-with-chss

FUNDING

ACVO News 46 May 2022

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

NESS Energy Project Community Funding 2022 ACCIONA, a global leader in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure, has been awarded the NESS Energy Project contract for the construction and operation of an energy from waste facility in Aberdeen.

ACCIONA is responsible for the design and turnkey construction, commissioning and operation of maintenance of the plant for a 20-year period.

ACCIONA is committed to making a positive contribution to the local community by supporting a wide range of social, economic and environmental benefits, and is looking to engage with community stakeholders in a number of different ways, eg Education, Employability and Skills Training; local SME Opportunities; and Social Wellbeing.

Community groups and charities in Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray are invited to apply for funding to help with social/community projects.

The types of projects that may be supported, but are not limited to are: Creating opportunities for culture, leisure, and recreation Promoting health and wellbeing, including mental health Supporting and promoting activities for younger people Supporting and promoting activities for older people Enhancing places Applications close 15th May 2022 and applicants will be advised on the outcome of their application by 10th June 2022.

Find out more and apply at aberdeencity.gov.uk/nessenergy-project/community-funding-2022

News 47 ACVO May 2022

FUNDING

We Are Here Scotland’s Creators’ Fund round 2 applications close May 31st We Are Here Scotland are happy to announce that

"In terms of challenging the inequalities within Scotland's

applications for the Creators’ Fund ROUND 2 are now live.

creative industries, we need to ensure that the developing

The fund aims to provide practical funding opportunities

careers of BPoC artists and creatives are supported on a

for Black and POC artists and creatives across Scotland,

consistent and meaningful basis. And the Creators' Fund is

along with one-to-one mentorship from experienced

a small way in which we move things forward and maintain

industry professionals.

a presence in Scotland that we hope can inspire future

On 9 June 2021, the Creators’ Fund Round 1 not only

generations of artists, creatives and also be the start of a

reached its £6000 target but exceeded it. With the help of

much-needed discussion regarding representation in

a judging panel , 7 people were selected to receive £500

Scotland's creative industries."

each and mentoring. This fund is aimed at not only

TIMELINE

providing financial support, but also practical career advice,

24 March - 31 May: Creators’ Fund open for applications

support and guidance.

31 May - 10 June: applications shortlisted

About the fund, the team at We are Here Scotland said "We are now moving into the next phase of funding more creatives.

25 June: judging panel selects recipients 3 July: recipients and unsuccessful applicants notified Find out more at weareherescotland.com/creators-fund

The NESCAN Seed Fund reopened for 2022-2023 Are you or your group planning a small community led climate action or biodiversity project within Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire? Then you could be eligible for up to £500 of NESCAN seed funding!

The deadline for applications which must be allocated by 31st March 2023, is Tuesday 28th February 2023 although funding will be allocated before this date.

Please see NESCAN's newly updated website at nescan.org for details, eligibility and how to apply, and remember funding will be allocated on a first come first serve basis but is capped at £500 per group/organisation for this financial year.

If you have any questions regarding the funding or application process, please don’t hesitate to contact Snr Project Officer Tara Murray tara@nescan.org

FUNDING

ACVO News 48 May 2022

£30,000 of funding from Aberdeen Harbour Board awarded to support local communities Charities and community groups operating locally to Aberdeen Harbour, soon to be known as Port of Aberdeen, have received funding from the port to help their work supporting individuals and families through the cost of living crisis.

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hrough the port’s community action programme, supPORTall, two awards of £10,000 have been granted to CFINE and Big Noise Torry (Sistema Scotland).

Two further awards of £5,000 have been granted to the Inchgarth Community Centre and the Streetsport project, run by the Denis Law Legacy Trust.

Bob Sanguinetti, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Harbour, said “COVID-19 and the cost of living crisis have created a perfect storm for those most vulnerable in our communities. It is a privilege to support these organisations which make real improvements to the lives of many people.”

CFINE provides a wide range of health and wellbeing services including the provision of food parcels, cooking classes, vocational training opportunities and mental health support. The port’s £10,000 grant will contribute towards the running costs of the CFINE foodbank and cooking classes.

Fiona Rae, Managing Director of CFINE, said: “CFINE is delighted to receive this funding from through the supPORT– all programme and our associated project will continue to focus on tackling inequalities.”

Since its launch in 2015, Big Noise Torry has worked with children at Walker Road and Tullos primary schools and more recently with secondary school pupils at Lochside Academy, using an orchestral setting to teach life skills and experiences.

The port’s funding will help expand the programme to a full symphony orchestra model through the introduction of wind and brass instruments to pupils.

Lorna Carruthers, Head of Centre at Big Noise Torry (Sistema Scotland), said: "We can't wait to have children playing trumpets, flutes, clarinets and more alongside our amazing young string and percussion musicians, ensuring as many young people as possible are benefitting from Big Noise Torry to improve their confidence, friendships and aspirations."

Located in Garthdee, the Inchgarth Community Centre provides education, fitness, recreation and support services for

News 49 ACVO May 2022

more than 2,500 people each week. The funds will be spent on new play equipment and accessible seating for children and adults with additional support needs.

Paul O' Connor MBE, Chairman & Manager Inchgarth Community Centre, said: "There is a tremendous level of excitement amongst our users to start using the new facilities. The supPORT-all initiative is prime example of how Aberdeen's businesses can support the third sector.”

Streetsport is children’s charity Denis Law Legacy Trust’s flagship programme, ran in partnership with Robert Gordon University, and delivers free sports and activity sessions for young people across Aberdeen City, particularly in areas of high

FUNDING

youth annoyance. The funds will be spent on new sports equipment for participants.

Mark Williams, Chief Operating Officer of Denis Law Legacy Trust, said: “The funding will directly impact hundreds of young people around Aberdeen in a hugely positive manner, particularly in Torry where some of our busiest Streetsport sessions are.

Since 2014, the port has donated more than £600,000 to as many as 50 community groups and charities in the North East of Scotland, benefiting tens of thousands of children and adults.

Bob Sanguinetti continued: “Working with and supporting the communities local to the harbour is incredibly important to us.

We hope that we are able to enhance their work and look forward to getting involved in their projects.”

"COVID-19 and the cost of living crisis have created a perfect storm for those most vulnerable in our communities.

It is a privilege to support these organisations which make real improvements to the lives of many people" Bob Sanguinetti, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Harbour

ACVO News 50 May 2022

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

Health & Social Care Updates

Aberdeen City Links Practitioner Service Retender

Collaborative Commissioning Workshops The Aberdeen City Links Practitioners Service contract is due to end on 31 March 2023. Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership is undertaking a collaborative commissioning process to develop the tender specification document for the new Links Practitioner Service contract.

They would like to invite all interested providers and stakeholders along to their workshops to capture feedback and experience.

Please see the dates and times listed and and signup at bit.ly/3Kt48CO if you wish to attend.

ACHSCP would like to encourage those who can to try and attend each session, however your collaboration is welcome to any that you are available to attend. The workshop sessions will be delivered using Microsoft Teams.

They have also developed a short survey on your experience of the Links Practitioner Service to date, please take five minutes to provide your feedback at bit.ly/3rX2YJE.

The survey will close Tuesday 17th May 2022 at 5pm.

Aberdeen City Links Practitioner Service Retender Collaborative Commissioning Workshop dates: Thursday 12th May –1-4pm – Programme Review and Initial Outcomes Thursday 26th May –1-4pm – Future Solutions Thursday 9th June –1-4pm –Final Agreed Outcomes / Service Spec Draft Thursday 23rd June –1-4pm – Optional Final Workshop If you would like to attend these sessions please sign up at bit.ly/3Kt48CO, any questions please contact gracemilne@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Scottish Ambulance Service 2030 Strategy Discussion Document and Questionnaire

The Scottish Ambulance Service is actively engaged with NHS Boards, Health & Social Care Partnerships, GP practices and other key stakeholders to support the effective delivery of highquality care. As a result, they believe they have enormous potential to play a significantly enhanced role in the future of health and social care provision, by working collaboratively with the public and stakeholders around how we plan and provide safe, effective and person-centred health and care for the people of Scotland.

Chris Purnell, Engagement and Involvement Manager for Scottish Ambulance Service said "In 2019, we actively consulted with staff and the public to get input into the development of our 2030 Strategy.

Now, taking account of the new postpandemic landscape, we must consider how we develop our strategy to respond to Scotland’s Health & Social Care priorities to help address the root cause of the challenges we face on a day-to-day basis.

"We are keen to get your views on what we should prioritise and focus our attentions on via our survey."

Read the 2030 strategy discussion document and complete the survey at bit.ly/3vNbwDL

News 51 ACVO May 2022

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

Penumbra Mental Health spread the message of positive mental health during Mental Health Awareness Week 2022

Are you an advocate for improved mental health and wellbeing?

Do you want to be a part of the fight for better quality care? If so, join Penumbra Mental Health during Mental Health Awareness week.

Mental Health Awareness Week is right around the corner (9th – 13th May) and Penumbra Mental Health will be in the heart of the community in Aberdeen to spread the message of positive mental health and wellbeing.

Emily Marooth, Volunteer Coordinator at Penumbra said "we will be based at Aberdeen Central Library during the week to provide information about mental health in Aberdeen.

"We hope to promote the services Penumbra offer within the city, listen to your personal experiences of mental health and advertise volunteering opportunities for you to become involved in our mission towards a brighter future."

Representatives from Penumbra will be on hand between 9:00am – 5:00pm Monday to Friday in the main reception at Aberdeen Central Library on Rosemount Viaduct. They will be available to answer burning questions regarding mental health and help signpost you towards excellent

resources showcasing active mental health initiatives run in your local community.

"Whether you want to pop in for a chat or wish to come aboard as part of our supportive and caring team of volunteers, we look forward to seeing you soon." added Emily.

ACVO News 52 May 2022

VACANCIES

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

Cfine expand their reach with five new North East based job roles Development Worker: Criminal Justice

Permanent | Hours: 36.25 | Salary: £23,409 - £25,846

Role Purpose The Development Worker will be part of a team delivering a range of support, services and activities for and with our beneficiaries.

Development Worker: Volunteering

The primary focus of this role is the development, co-ordination and delivery of support for ex-offenders.

Permanent | Hours: 36.25 | Salary: £23,409 - £25,846

Role Purpose

Development Worker Aberdeenshire (Connecting with Communities)

Permanent | Hours: 36.25 | Salary: £23,409 - £25,846

Role Purpose The Development Worker will be part of a team responsible for delivering a range of support services and activities for and with our communities and beneficiaries across Aberdeenshire.

The primary focus of this role is the development and co-ordination of CFINE’s mobile food project (Connecting with Communities) operation in Aberdeenshire.

The primary purpose of this role is the coordination and development of CFINE’s volunteer programme and facilitate volunteering to help support the work of the organisation.

News 53 ACVO May 2022

VACANCIES

Inclusion Coordinator (Volunteering & Employability)

Permanent | Hours: 36.25 | Salary: £25,846 – £28,536 Responsible for Development Worker: Volunteering, Development Worker: Criminal Justice, Employability Coordinator and part responsible for other colleagues plus dozens of volunteers annually.

SAFE Team Advisor

Role Purpose: The role will have responsibility for the coordination and development of CFINE’s volunteering and employability programmes and implementation of CFINE’s Inclusion Plan.

Permanent | Hours: 36.25 | Salary: £23,409 - £25,846

Role Purpose SAFE stands for Support Advice Finance Education. The SAFE Team Advisor will be part of a team delivering a range of confidential financial advice and support services and activities for and with our beneficiaries.

CFINE operates to cooperative, or ‘Community Development’, principles which underpin and permeate the organisation and its activities.

The ethos and values are:

The primary focus of this role is the provision of financial capability support to beneficiaries by phone and in person at CFINE, home visits and a range of outreach settings.

➢ inclusion, dignity and respect. ➢ equality of opportunity. ➢ collaboration and partnership. ➢ mutuality and reciprocity. ➢ recognising that everyone has something to offer. ➢ those affected by an issue should be integrally involved in solutions; and ➢ enterprising.

Applying?

To apply, please request an application form for this post by emailing mlamont@cfine.org Complete and return your application accompanied by a letter stating why you are suitable for this post, to Margaret Lamont, Admin Coordinator, 2-4 Poynernook Road, Aberdeen, AB11 5RW or by email to mlamont@cfine.org – Closing date for all applications 12 Noon, Friday 13th May 2022

VACANCIES

ACVO News 54 May 2022

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

find out more and apply

find out more and apply

News 55 ACVO May 2022

VACANCIES

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

find out more and apply

find out more and apply

VACANCIES

ACVO News 56 May 2022

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

find out more and apply

find out more and apply

ACVO News 60 May 2022

EVENTS

Events, training & workshops

Multi Agency GIRFEC and Child Protection training Aberdeen City Child Protection and Aberlour have released details of their Multi Agency GIRFEC and Child Protection training. All training will take place via MS Teams and there is a maximum of 20 spaces on each course, with booking made on a first come first serve basis.

Multi Agency GIRFEC Training

Effective Chronologies Training - Tuesday 10th May 09:30 - 12:30

To sign up for the following courses please email safeguardingtraining.aberdeen@aberlour.org.uk with:

This training examines the framework & guidance for

The title of the training you wish to attend

developing Chronologies to ensure high quality and

Your name

effective information gathering. It offers the opportunity to

Work email address -Organisation + job title

improve practice by providing practical opportunities for

Line manager's name + email address

completing and assessing both single and multi-agency

You will receive a confirmation email and nearer the time of

chronologies.

the training, you will be sent an invite to attend via MS Teams.

It is a requirement that you complete the e-module 'Introduction to Safeguarding' before attending GIRFEC courses.

Multi Agency Manager’s Course – Early Intervention Training - Thursday 26th May - 09:30 - 13:00 This course recognises that Managers sometimes find it difficult to fit in time for training. This new course gives you

'Introduction to Safeguarding' is a video course available via

the opportunity to update your knowledge, get a look at

accessing the following link:

the kind of multi-agency child protection training front line

Introduction to Safeguarding e-module (GIRFEC) |

staff in Aberdeen were completing last year, and also meet

Aberdeen City Council

with other Managers in a multi-agency setting.

They also recommend that you complete the 'Managing, Recording & Sharing Information' online course available in video format before attending any live GIRFEC courses.

This course provides up to date information and guidance on the following topics: Children and Young People’s Mental Health Identifying and acting on early indicators of Neglect Emotional Abuse and its impact

News 61 ACVO May 2022

EVENTS

Multi Agency Child Protection Training

Child Protection and Disability Training Thursday 26th May - 13:00 - 16:30

To sign up to attend any of the following training sessions please email hbennett@aberdeencity.gov.uk

We will define what we mean by the term 'disability' before

with:

moving on to breakdown why disabled children are at a

The title of the training you wish to attend

greater risk of abuse and/or neglect than children without a

Your name

disability. We then look over key legislation and guidance,

Work email address

the role of a young carer, and discuss the importance of

Organisation + job title

tailored communication to fit the needs of children and

Line manager's name + email address

young people with a physical and/or learning disability.

You will receive a confirmation email and nearer the time of the training you will be sent an invite to attend via MS

Emotional Abuse in Children and Young People Training -

Teams.

Tuesday 31st May - 13:00 - 16:30

Online Safety Training - Thursday 5th May - 09:00 - 12:30

We will define emotional abuse and look at the varying ways in which it can happen broken down by category. We

This training covers the current social media applications

will discus show to professionally describe and prove that

used by children and young people in Scotland. This

harm has taken place as a result of the emotional abuse.

training will look at 5-6 different applications in detail

We then compare emotional abuse with emotional neglect

before breaking down various online harms some children

and look at the impact emotional abuse can have on

fall victim to whilst using the internet. The training will then

children and young people before moving on to Dr Glaser's

focus on how professionals can support better online safety

4 Tier Model which aids professionals in recognising

among children, young people and their families.

emotional abuse is happening.

Parental Resistance Training Wednesday 18th May - 09:00 - 12:30 We will define parental resistance and discuss the different forms it can take. We will look at the impact parental resistance can have on children and professionals and discuss 5 different styles of conflict management.

EVENTS

ACVO News 62 May 2022

A weekend celebrating Black and People of Colour Creatives in Aberdeen and Scotland is set to take the Music Hall and the Lemon Tree by storm this month Curated by We Are Here Scotland and commissioned by Aberdeen Performing Arts, Rise Up! will take place on 13 and 14 May with a dynamic programme of performances, talks, and workshops.

Headline events include Rise Up! In Our Own Words on Friday, May 13 in the Music Hall’s Big Sky Studio, and Rise Up! With Our Voices on Saturday, May 14 at the Lemon Tree.

In Our Own Words is an evening of performance by artists of colour, exploring and celebrating themes of identity, culture and a sense of place in Scotland. With a line-up including 16 year-old Aberdonian singer-songwriter Aiysha, Aberdeenbased spoken word artist Noon Salah Eldin, Glaswegian performer Paix and poet Mae Diansangu, this your chance to see firsthand the power of art as a tool for social representation and change.

With Our Voices will see up and coming artists join more established voices who are all changing the narrative within the country’s

music scene. Celebrated Aberdeen rapper Chef joins Edinburgh-based singer-songwriter Danny Cliff on a line up which also includes Glaswegian singer Clarissa, songwriter and soundsmith Kapil Seshasayee and DJ and visual artist DIJA. One Mississippi takes place at the Lemon Tree at 7pm on Saturday, 14 May. Described as a hardhitting play that explores how the impact of childhood experiences shape men’s adult lives, One Mississippi blends humour and storytelling with powerful elements of physical theatre to create an uncompromising insight into what takes us to breaking point.

A series of free talks and workshops taking place at the Music Hall Big Sky Studio on Saturday 14 May cover topics including representation within Scottish creative industries, climate narratives, knowing your worth, and culture and identity as an artistic influence among others. The Music Hall’s Coda Café will be open throughout for refreshments between events.

Information for all Rise Up! events is available at aberdeenperformingarts.com.

News 59 ACVO April 2022

Shows

EVENTS

Rise Up! In Our Own Words Friday 13th May at 5pm

One Mississippi Saturday 14th May at 7pm

Rise Up! With Our Voices Saturday 14th May at 8pm

An evening of performance by artists of colour, exploring and celebrating themes of identity, culture and a sense of place in Scotland

A hard-hitting verbatim play that explores how the impact of childhood experiences shape men’s adult lives, and the journey it takes them on.

A night to celebrate and champion an array of Black and People of Colour talent from across Scotland, who are changing the narrative within the country’s music scene.

Taking the initiative to support our community - 10:15am More of our faces in decision making spaces - 1:30pm How Can North East Scotland be supportive of Black and POC artists/creatives? - 12:45pm

Workshops Saturday 14th May

Climate Narratives/Climate Futures 12:30pm This condensed workshop will explore how we can cogenerate diverse climate futures.

Studio Panels

Why does representation within Scotland's creative industries matter? - 2:30pm

Saturday 14th May

Not in our Budget - 3:45pm We Are Here, but we are not the same - 5pm

Social Media and Marketing within Scotland's Creative Industries 3pm Practical advice and guidance for increasing your social media presence.

Support for writing an application fund 1:45pm A beginner’s guide to applying for funding.

Looking at what funders want and how to present your ideas and approach funders.

ACVO News 64 May 2022

Event Highlig May

07

Ditch Debt With Dignity Quiz Evening

Join Ditch Debt with Dignity for a fun evening with a quiz, disco, food prizes and raffles in order to raise awareness and funds for the organisation.

To be held at Union Kirk (previously Soul casino)

4:00 pm - 9:00 pm - £15

Find out more

Support our exciting community Compass Project and help to transform the naturally-beautiful and historic 4.1 acre former Waldorf School site into a centre demonstrating practical solutions for healthy, sustainable lifestyles.

Please let us know at least one day in advance if you are able to come along to a weekday session by emailing us: compass@cwt.scot We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers who are willing to lend a hand with whatever needs doing. The majority of tasks will involve gardening work and outdoor clear ups including planting seeds, fruit bushes, canes, collecting leaves for compost piles, creating no-dig beds, watering, preparation of ground for planting etc. We run Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning sessions during the week plus monthly Saturdays.

Find out more

11

Volunteering Day at Compass 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm

News 65 ACVO May 2022

ghts find more event listings, and submit yours free of charge at

acvo.org.uk/events

12

Meno & Pause Co-lab Cafe 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Aberdeen Football Club

Building a future of Menopause support in Aberdeen for Women and their families’ Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership have come together with Aberdeen FC Community Trust to invite you to the third Meno & Pause Co-lab Café the event will in held in the legends lounge at Aberdeen Football Club.

This will be a very relaxed and informal environment, which will focus on sharing experiences regarding the impact menopause has on families, friends, colleagues and generally anyone you may be around whilst going through menopause.

Find out more

30

This event is open to anyone who is interested men and women. As this one is focussed on the impact menopause has on others around you, it is a great opportunity to share those experiences and any advice you may have.

Meaningful relationships, meaningful dialogue!

11:00 am - 12:30 pm

How can one off conversations move to valuable dialogue?

We are looking for people passionate about lived experience engagement to join us at this online conversation café.

Do you work or volunteer in in mental health in Scotland? Do you manage, deliver or design frontline mental health services? Do you have experience of accessing or requiring mental health support?

People have told us valuing meaningful engagement means building valued relationships leading to valuable dialogue. Moving from the more formal traditional forms of engagement to a more informal relational way of working together.

Find out more

One of three events making up a series of events concentrating on how we can better relate to lived experience. This café will focus how can we build meaningful relationships to move from engaging in one off conversations to valuable ongoing dialogue between people accessing and working in services alike.

acvo.org.uk