ACVO News May 2023

ACVO NEWS

NEWS FROM ABERDEEN'S THIRD SECTOR

MAY | 2023

acvo.org.uk

ACVO News

CONTENTS

May 2023

3

Year 3 of the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund confirmed by the Scottish Goverment

4 - ACVO updates including CMH+W fund Year 3 & Community Spaces launch

8 - Celebrate Aberdeen Parade 2023 now open for registrations

12 - Rise Up! Festival returns to Aberdeen May 5th & 6th

4 ACVO Updates 8 News from you and other networks 26 Volunteering The latest from Mike Melvin and Volunteer Aberdeen 30 Policy & Consultations 32 Funding News 36 Health and Social Care Updates

P.24

SCHOOL PUPILS WIN FUND MONEY FOR TOUCH OF LOVE OUTREACH AT YPI GRAND FINAL Not on the mailing list to receive ACVO News direct to your inbox every month? Sign up here.

ACVO Opportunities Community Spaces - 38 Funding - 39 Volunteering - 40 Events - 44 Vacancies - 46

Scottish Charity No: SC036845

ACVO UPDATES

ACVO News May 2023

Year 3 of the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund has been confirmed by the Scottish Goverment

The Scottish Government has announced that the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund is to be made available for a third consecutive year to support more grassroots projects around Scotland.

The fund, which is distributed in the Aberdeen by ACVO, has already seen 160 City based projects share over £1.2million during years 1 and 2 and has made a huge difference to the lives of people within our communities.

More news to follow about the application process – subscribe to our mailing list at acvo.org.uk/news to keep up to date with information about the fund and to hear when it goes live!

Below is the statement released by the Scottish Government on April 21st 2023…

Projects to support mental health and address social isolation and loneliness in adults will share a further £15 million this year.

The Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for adults, launched in 2021, has now provided around 3,300 grants to community organisations delivering mental health and wellbeing support, bringing total investment to £51 million.

Activities will target older people, areas of economic deprivation, people with long term health conditions or disability and LGBTI communities. The Fund has also had a particular focus on responding to the cost of living crisis, which remains a priority this year.

Improved mental health and wellbeing support is one of the commitments in the Scottish Government’s Policy Prospectus, which outlines firm actions to be achieved by 2026.

"This investment reflects the importance we place on promoting good mental health and early intervention for those facing mental health challenges – ensuring that people can access a range of different types of help to match their needs.

The Fund will continue to support a range of valuable community mental health and wellbeing projects, reflecting one of the priorities set out by the First Minister earlier this week."

Scottish Government Health Secretary, Michael Matheson

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5

ACVO News May 2023

ACVO Opportunities

Community Spaces

now available at acvo.org.uk/spaces

T

he team at ACVO know that our sector has some amazing facilities and

Submit your space for free via our online form

venues for hire and we want to help spread the word.

We regularly receive enquiries about the hire of spaces in the community for meetings, events and team days so the

View available spaces on our interactive map

aim of this new initiative is to provide a listing platform so others working within the sector, and the wider public, can discover the amazing facilities our sector has to offer and support organisations directly through money generated via hires.

Use a keyword to search the directory

Any third sector or community organisation with a space to hire in Aberdeen City can submit details on our site at acvo.org.uk/spaces to have it added, free of charge, to the public directory.

We will actively promote these through our newsletters and social

Browse the directory to discover more details of available spaces

media platforms and hope that Community Spaces becomes a valuable resource for the city by helping to connect the wider community with the facilities our sector has to offer.

Our Community Spaces directory aims to connect those looking for potential venue hire with the wealth of spaces third sector organisations and community groups in Aberdeen have to offer.

see it for yourself at

acvo.org.uk/spaces

ACVO UPDATES

ACVO News May 2023

Mental Health Awareness Week: ACVO film project coming soon!

T

his year, ACVO is proud to be supporting the annual Mental Health Awareness Week with

our upcoming project. This year’s week, organised by the Mental Health Foundation, will take place from 15 to 21 May 2023 and will focus on the theme of anxiety.

The ACVO Communications Team are excited to announce that we will be releasing three brand new films throughout the week to help raise awareness around mental health in Aberdeen. We are delighted to be featuring the following local organisations: Four Pillars, Pet and Companion (PEACE) and Baltic Boys Aberdeen.

Speakers from these organisations discuss the work they do as part of their third sector group, how they help alleviate anxiety amongst the community and the importance of mental health as a whole.

Make sure you don't miss out by following us on our social media channels below and look out for a feature on the project in next month's ACVO news!

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ACVO News May 2023

ACVO UPDATES

Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire’s Third Sector Community Justice Forum Monday 5th June 2023 at shmu

A

CVO and AVA have long hosted regular and various fora to support, inform and develop the third sector. After a period of absence we have decided to undergo a refresh of our Third Sector Community Justice Forum.

In a new approach and in partnership with AVA (TSI in Aberdeenshire), we have decided to have an in-person inaugural meeting to scope out and explore this further.

This meeting will held on Monday 5th June 2023, from 10.00am to 12.00pm at SHMU, Station House, Woodside, Aberdeen, AB24 2WB. We are inviting third sector colleagues to this meeting , where in addition to networking , you can: - Be involved in setting the terms of reference for this forum - Gain a better understanding of Community Planning and the strategic Community Justice Partnership If you work with or support people in any way affected by the justice system, we’d like you to come along – you can book your place by clicking here or by visiting acvo.org.uk/events to find out more If you’d like further information or are not sure, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch -

Events

ACVO Opportunities

Susan Morrison by email at susan.morrison@acvo.org.uk or phone 07814896676.

find out more and book your space online via

Sharon Francis by email at sharon.francis@avashire.org.uk or phone 07964034263.

acvo.org.uk/events

NEWS

ACVO News May 2023

8

News from you and other networks

Registrations open for Celebrate Aberdeen Parade 2023 Registration is now open for the Celebrate Aberdeen parade, the event which showcases the enormous contribution that charities, voluntary groups, and social enterprises have on life in North-east Scotland.

Lord Provost Dr David Cameron heads up the 2022 Celebrate Aberdeen parade. Photo credit: Aberdeen City Council.

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ACVO News

NEWS

May 2023

O

rganised in partnership with Aberdeen City Council, this year’s parade will place on

Saturday, August 26, when thousands of people representing around 150 organisations will march the length of Union Street watched by thousands of spectators.

First held in 2011, it brings together an eclectic and inclusive group of third sector organisations, cultural organisations, youth groups, sports clubs, and music, dance, and entertainment groups.

Registration for this year’s event is open until Friday, June 23.

“Celebrate Aberdeen is all about taking time to acknowledge the breadth and diversity of the organisations and individuals who make a huge difference to other people’s lives in so many different ways,” said Celebrate Aberdeen volunteer Emily Findlay. “The parade is a spectacular celebration that fills Union Street from one end to the other with colour, music, and joy - a truly uplifting experience for both participants and spectators.”

Organisations which took part in last year’s Celebrate Aberdeen Parade had the opportunity to submit an application to be considered for a £1,100 donation to support their work. The funds come from the collecting buckets carried by volunteers during the parade and every year, one organisation is selected as the recipient.

Planning is also in progress for the Celebrate Aberdeen Awards, a gala

event which recognises and pays tribute to the positive impact individuals, volunteers and organisations in the third sector makes to thousands of lives across Aberdeen City and Shire.

This year however it faces an uncertain future as organisers are still appealing for more sponsors to come forward so that the event, scheduled to take place in September, can go ahead.

“The Awards turn the spotlight on just some of the people who go over and above in their commitment towards helping others,” said Emily.

“Over the past three years we’ve recognised some exceptional people and unsung heroes and heard truly heart-warming stories. But to do this we are completely reliant on the generosity and financial support of sponsors.

“The sponsorship we receive ensures that all the finalists in 11 categories and their guests attend the gala awards night for free, so no one is barred from attending because of cost. We already have commitments from sponsors who have supported this event in the past, but we are short of the total we need to make the event a reality, so would love to hear from anyone interested in finding out more about sponsorship for this very worthy cause.”

The Union Street mile races, which immediately precede the parade also return for 2023. Organised in association with Celebrate Aberdeen

by Myles Edwards of the Gathimba

“The parade is a spectacular celebration that fills Union Street from one end to the other with colour, music, and joy - a truly uplifting experience for both participants and spectators.”

Emily Findlay, Celebrate Aberdeen Volunteer

Edwards Foundation (GEF), the race was renamed Mel’s Union Street Mile, in memory of Myles’ dad Mel who passed away in 2019.

Application for the races, which cover three age groups from primary school to adult, will open on the GEF website soon. Due to the tight timescale, entrants must be able to complete the mile in under 11 minutes.

Aberdeen Lord Provost Dr David Cameron said: “Celebrate Aberdeen has the fantastic ability to bring together our city’s third sector community in such a colourful and engaging way and I am sure that this year’s celebrations will be no exception.

“The parade in particular is always a fun-filled event that everyone looks forward to and is perfect for allowing all the voluntary organisations within our city to show everyone what they represent and all the good work that they do for users.

“I am very much looking forward to Celebrate Aberdeen and all the community participation it will bring to the city centre.”

For more information and to register for the Celebrate Aberdeen Parade visit celebrate-aberdeen.org To find out more about sponsorship opportunities for the Celebrate Aberdeen Awards please contact Morven Mackenzie at morven@mackenzie-brown.com or on 07855 526773.

To apply for Mel’s Union Street Mile, part of the GEF Safari Series, visit gathimbaedwards foundation.org/safari-series when entries open this month.

Anyone unable to race on the day can do so virtually and submit their completion time to info@gathimbaedwardsfoundation.org

NEWS

ACVO News 10 May 2023

Maths Masterclass series Green Award hailed a success: Local pupils earn STEM award The Workers' Educational

Association (WEA) in Scotland are piloting a new initiative this year.

They have decided to sponsor a WEA Green Award.

The WEA Green Award has been

Pupils from across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have completed the Maths Masterclass series, which used YouTube star, Andy Murray and The Simpsons to teach maths lessons.

created to recognise individuals or groups in Scotland who have adopted or promoted innovative educational approaches to green issues creatively and in a sustainable way. This may also involve inspiring and supporting others to consider taking action to promote a sustainable lifestyle.

The prize consists of £500 cash for the winner's business or organisation.

Any individual or self-funding community group can be nominated, and self-nomination is also encouraged.

Nominations must show evidence of addressing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Further details of the UNSDGs can be found at sdgs.un.org/goals.

To enter, please visit wea.org.uk/greenscotland and fill out the webform.

The closing date for applications is 23:59, Monday 31st July 2023.

O

rganised by STEM charity TechFest in partnership with The Royal Institution (RI),

the series of eight workshops aimed to inspire the next generation of problem solvers.

The 45 young people, who were drawn from S2 classes at 11 schools across the region, received an insight into how mathematics can be applied and used outside the classroom.

Completing the series of Maths Masterclasses means the pupils have earned their CREST Discovery Awards.

They were presented with the award after the final class took place at RGU on Saturday 25th March.

Over the past eight weeks the pupils have learned from Dr Tom Crawford, also known as Tom Rocks Maths to his 125,000 social media followers, whose online

videos include stripping off to explain complex maths equations and sitting an A-level maths exam without studying!

The young people also heard from experts covering topics such as how to predict the likelihood of Andy Murray and Emma Raducanu winning a tennis match and how maths is used in cult TV cartoon The Simpsons.

One of the pupils who attended the Maths Masterclass sessions said, “My favourite part of the Masterclasses was learning new Mathematical secrets, being able to socialise and have fun whilst learning at the same time.”

The final Maths Masterclass was presented by Amy Hooker, the Secondary School Masterclass Lead from the Royal Institution in London and focused on Sierpiński Triangles, a beautiful mathematical shape which appears in some surprising places.

"The series has provided a fantastic opportunity to show the application of maths in real life and the young people who have attended the sessions have been really engaged."

Yashka Smith, STEM Lead at TechFest

News 11 ACVO May 2023

NEWS

Pupils learnt about Sierpiński’s triangle from Amy Hooker, Royal Institution Secondary Mathematics Masterclass Coordinator.

The pupils created the shape in different ways and investigated its properties.

The session provided a chance to see how simple rules can lead to amazing outcomes. It also allowed the young mathematicians to explore a different way of counting dimensions.

Yashka Smith, STEM Lead at TechFest said: “The Maths Masterclasses were sponsored by Serica Energy, and we are delighted to have had their support.

“It has allowed us to deliver an incredibly interesting series of maths-based sessions to young people from across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. The sessions have been a great success and covered a wide range of topics including

coding, tennis, the energy transition, and space!

“The series has provided a fantastic opportunity to show the application of maths in real life and the young people who have attended the sessions have been really engaged.

“We’re pleased to have been able to present CREST Discovery awards to so many young people, it’s fantastic that they have not only enjoyed the workshops but also now have an award as recognition of their interest in mathematics.”

Chris Kay of Serica Energy’s Charity and Education Committee said, “The success of Techfest’s incredibly creative Maths Masterclasses is inspiring for Serica as it pulls together many of

our goals as a Company; contributing to our local communities, encouraging people to be all they can be and developing young minds for future career success.

“Our congratulations to Techfest and great thanks for the opportunity to meet some of the participants and get involved.”

TechFest is an Aberdeen-based charity which aims to engage young people in the four main STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and encourage them to go on to follow a career which utilises these skills by demonstrating that they are both fun and relevant in day-to-day life.

For more information on TechFest, visit www.techfest.org.uk

News 13 ACVO May 2023

Rise Up! a two-day festival celebrating Black and People of Colour creatives in Aberdeen & Scotland returns May 5th & 6th

A

berdeen is set to welcome back Rise Up! Festival as it returns to the Granite City on May

5th & 6th to celebrate black and people of colour across the country.

The festival, curated by We Are Here Scotland and commissioned by Aberdeen Performing Arts, is set to host a string of events at the Music Hall and The Lemon Tree.

The festival will host a line up of comedy acts, dance performances,

"Our platform’s aim is to amplify black and people of colour creatives across Scotland, but we also welcome all to participate, learn and engage."

thought-provoking themes including Times, Metro and Guardian-featured mental health podcast A Sonic Hug with ‘How do we improve the mental health and wellbeing of BPoC creatives’ and ‘Uncomfortable conversations in safe spaces’ where people can explore how they encourage and foster conversations around diversity, inclusion and equality in the creative industries.

As a special addition to the festival,

- We Are Here Scotland founder and director, Ica Headlam

We Are Here Scotland has recently

inclusion and relevance for black and

The weekend will begin with keynote

People of Colour artists in Scotland.

people of colour.

speaker, Yahya Barry - a leader and

To celebrate the launch of their

We Are Here Scotland founder and

consultant in culture, heritage and the

panels about thought provoking topics and more, in a bid to improve

director Ica Headlam said "I'm pleased that for another year We Are Here Scotland is working in partnership with our friends at Aberdeen Performing Arts to produce

creative and screen industries, he is the community development lead (Scotland and Northern Ireland) for the film and television charity, and a member of the board of creative

collaborated with Look Again as part of a new initiative to support Black and

upcoming exhibition, ‘Loved Seeds’, poet Noon Eldin and artist Helen Love will host a performance in the space.

Combining clay, poetry and projection in this performance, they will simultaneously make a three

our second Rise Up Festival.

Scotland.

"Last year we were able to provide a

The festival will also boast some firsts

children of an enslaved woman from

in its programme including a cabaret

1832 Jamaica.

on Friday, May 5. There is set to be an

Tickets for panels and young people's

platform for a multitude of artists and creatives from our community.

"And this year's festival is a continuation of everything we developed last year, whilst also highlighting the importance of providing a platform for black and people of colour artists and creatives from the north-east of Scotland and further afield.

array of performances, including poetry from acclaimed Scottish writer and performer Courtney Stoddart and a comedy set from the hilarious Safeena Rashid.

Following on from the success of last year, the festival will host a series of panels exploring important and

dimensional family tree of the nine

workshops are free but booking is essential. Tickets for Friday's Cabaret and Saturday's music event are offered at pay what you can afford with a full price entry charge of £10.

Find more details & book online at aberdeenperformingarts.com/rise-up2023/

News 15 ACVO May 2023

NEWS

Aberdeen Science Centre welcomes 2,800 delegates during record year of events Aberdeen Science Centre has hosted more than 60 business events over the past year, bringing more than 2,800 delegates to the unusual venue in its best year yet for corporate trade.

Several organisations have held

“We provide a unique and versatile

A wide variety

multiple events at the venue with

events space where organisations can

of topics were covered by the events

energy skills organisation OPITO

host their event in inspiring

– and perhaps not surprisingly, some

choosing Aberdeen Science Centre as

surroundings.”

have strong links with STEM.

its venue of choice for 17 bookings

The space on offer at Aberdeen

However, events don’t have to have a

over the 12-month period.

Science Centre can be configured to

STEM link to be held at Aberdeen

The events, which are worth an

suit many different types and sizes of

Science Centre.

estimated five-figure sum, covered a

event.

range of topics including ‘the Value of

“Over the past 12 months the events

“We have three purpose-built meeting

held at Aberdeen Science Centre have

rooms and a split-level upper

been quite varied and included a

Data’, ‘Arctic Frontiers Abroad’ and the ‘Net Zero Workforce’.

exhibition floor. This can be redefined

volunteer appreciation day for Chest

Aberdeen Science Centre recently

as a conference or exhibition space or

Heart and Stroke Scotland as well as

underwent a multi-million-pound

used to host a drinks reception with

Business Gateway’s ‘Transform

transformation. It now offers a range

catering from our on-site provider,

Business Festival’ which attracted

of spaces and is equipped with high-

Grub Fresh Food.”

over 300 people over the course of

tech AV so that it can deliver in

Access to the exhibition floor, which is

the day.”

home to more than 60 interactive

Every event held at Aberdeen Science

Erin Flett, Head of Business

exhibits including Aberdeen Science

Centre has one thing in common,

Development at Aberdeen Science

Centre’s newest additions of a slinky

helping Aberdeen Science Centre to

Centre, said, “The number of

treadmill and a spaceship docking

continue working with schools and

corporate events which have been

manoeuvre exhibit provides a unique

communities from across the North of

held at Aberdeen Science Centre

addition to the event experience.

Scotland.

between April 2022 and March 2023

“Feedback we have received following

“We have an end goal of inspiring

events indicates that having access to

children and young people to have a

the exhibits is popular with event

lifelong interest in STEM through

delegates. It often acts as a useful ice

engaging experiences. Those using our

breaker when people first arrive at an event, and during breakout and networking sessions,” said Erin.

services and hosting their event at the

person and hybrid events.

is testament to the high-quality offering that we have.

Francesco Bertoldi, head of Nordic and Arctic Unit at the Scottish Government agreed. Following the Arctic Frontiers Abroad conference, which was held at Aberdeen Science Centre in March 2023, he said, “The Aberdeen Science Centre was a perfect fit for our conference. Our delegates were impressed with the facilities and loved exploring the exhibitions.”

centre have the added bonus of knowing that not only are they contributing to the local economy, but they are also helping to build a legacy.”

For more information about events at Aberdeen Science Centre visit, aberdeensciencecentre.org/venue-hire

ACVO News 16 May 2023

NEWS

Two new Trustees join Denis Law Legacy Trust legal expertise from having been a Partner and latterly Managing

Partner at renowned law firm,

Children’s charity Denis Law Legacy Trust has welcomed two new trustees, Gary Law and Keith Allan.

Raeburn, Christie, Clark & Wallace.

On becoming one the charity’s latest trustees he said “I'm very honoured and privileged to become a trustee.”

“I always had the motivation to be involved in a charity. When the opportunity was presented to me with the Denis Law connection to it then, it was such an easy decision that this was the charity I wanted to help.”

“I want to give something back and support the Denis Law Legacy Trust, because I think it's a fantastic thing that they do, to help people in a way that I didn't need in my childhood. You need some kind of

New Denis Law Legacy Trust trustees Gary Law and Keith Allan.

B

focus on a sport or a skill and somebody to help you get that. It will make people stronger and

oth have previous experience in supporting and

From his role as a Children’s

better going forward.”

Services Workforce Development

Alistair Findlater, Denis Law Legacy

Manager, Gary brings a wealth of

Trust Chair added “We are

furthering the aims of Denis Law

knowledge in social work and

delighted to have Gary Law and

Legacy Trust having sat on the

working with young people.

Keith Allan join the Denis Law

He said “I've been working with

Legacy Trust board of trustees.”

charity’s advisory board and fundraising committee, respectively.

children and young families for

“Gary and Keith have already done

On the announcement, Gary Law,

about 12 years as a social worker

significant work in supporting our

son of Denis Law, said “It's an

so, I can see that there are a lot of

fundraising efforts and helping to

honour to be asked to be a trustee

families that may struggle to access

steer the direction of the charity. As

and with the work that the Denis

certain activities. I think that what

trustees, they bring a range of

Law Legacy Trust does, it was an

the charity does is brilliant in getting

expertise and skills that will

easy decision to make!”

out and supporting the children and

enhance our organisation going

“I was asked to sit on the advisory

families of Aberdeen by shaping and

forward and I am looking forward to

board, I'm committed to that and

offering something that hopefully

working closely

attended regularly, so I could see

leads on to positive things like

with them.”

that possibly I was being moulded

education, employment and being a role model.”

If you wish to read

for the next steps in that commitment. And so I thought, I’m

Also joining the trustee board is

can do so by clicking

going to really embrace that.”

Keith Allan who brings extensive

here.

the full interview, you

News 17 ACVO May 2023

NEWS

Nightstop - Community hosting to keep young people safe Aberdeen Foyer are delighted to be launching Nightstop North-East Scotland in 2023.

N

ightstop offers emergency accommodation for

young people. The level of risk is

for Nightstop North-East Scotland

managed by a risk assessment and

is encouraging people to get in

by obtaining two references for the

touch to find out more about

young people facing homelessness.

young person.

Hosting.

This accommodation is offered in

Nightstop will deliver both crisis

“Nightstop runs successfully and

response for young people

safely throughout the UK. We have

presenting as homeless and early

had a great response in Aberdeen

intervention for young people who

and Aberdeenshire so far, as we

might benefit from respite. At

continue to recruit hosts. We try to

Nightstop, we often work with

make Hosting as easy as possible;

The national Nightstop Network

young people who are experiencing

holding regular online information

comprises over 30 services across

conflict within the family home but

sessions so people can come along

the UK and is run by national

may be able to move back home

and find out a bit more.

homeless charity Depaul UK. In

with support. We can offer

Aberdeen City and Shire, Nightstop

mediation and host the young

We’re looking for people from all

is supported by Aberdeen Foyer.

person somewhere safe and secure

The nature of accommodating

until support with positive steps in

the homes of trained and vetted volunteers, who are supported by professional staff. This provides an accommodation option which is youth focused.

young people in private households

their housing situation are

types of backgrounds - maybe your own kids have moved out, maybe you love the idea of volunteering from home or maybe you’re really

means that the service can only

identified.

offer accommodation to low risk

Nightstop North-East Scotland

person’s life by giving them a bed

relies on the generosity of volunteer

for the night. Whatever your

hosts. These hosts offer their spare

motivation, it would be great to

bedrooms, with a very flexible level

hear from you.

of commitment: you decide when

I’m getting a reputation for asking

you’re free to host and can submit your availability in advance in case of any holidays or other commitments. Hosts receive a stipend of £15 per night as an outof-pocket expense payment to cover the additional cost of having another person at home.

Hosts are asked to be able to offer a young person a spare room, access to a bathroom and to be able to provide a listening ear.

Megan Douglas.

Megan Douglas, the Co-ordinator

looking to help change a young

people if they’ve got a spare room, but if you do, you could host for just a short time and keep a young person safe.”

If you’d like to find out more about volunteering as a Host with Nightstop North-East Scotland, you can e-mail Megan.Douglas@aberdeenfoyer.com or call 07467 919813.

More information can be found at www.aberdeenfoyer.com/services/ nightstop

ACVO News 18 May 2023

NEWS

Charlie House welcomes new board members The North-east charity has strengthened its board by appointing experienced accountant Sheena Anderson and construction professional Roddy Mitchell as trustees.

The new additions bring not only a

taxation, particularly for private

Aberdeen Performing Arts, Robert

wealth of skills that enhance the

client and business tax. With more

Gordon University and local Rotary

board's knowledge, but

than 35 years of experience in the

Clubs as well as holding treasurer

determination to ramp up the

field, Sheena’s background will be

positions for fundraising events.

progress of the charity’s Big Build

hugely influential for the charity’s

Additionally, Sheena is also chair of

Appeal, an initiative to develop a

financial strategy as the Big Build

the Anderson Anderson & Brown

dedicated support centre in the

continues to work towards its £8m

Charitable Initiative (AABIE).

North-east for children with life-

target.

limiting conditions and their

Following a career spanning 35

Extremely passionate about the

years in the construction industry,

third sector and non-profit

Roddy Mitchell retired from MTM

Retired chartered accountant

organisations, Sheena also has a

Construction in December 2020

Sheena Anderson is a founding

vast array of experience that aligns

where he specialised in civil

partner of Anderson Anderson &

with Charlie House’s ethos, having

engineering and building

Brown (AAB) and is an expert in

supported the Prince’s Trust,

contracting work before ending his

families.

News 19 ACVO May 2023

NEWS

career as a construction director.

course time that can be dedicated

actually delivering services that

Boasting immense knowledge

to help with our mission.

support children and their families.

across all areas of construction-

“Both Sheena and Roddy bring

We all wish her the best of luck for

based project management and

incredible professional experience

her future endeavours.”

having experienced a great number

and invaluable expertise, which is

Charlie House launched the Big

of build completions, Roddy’s

vital to help progress the next

Build Appeal with a target of £8m

skillset and determination will be

stages of our Big Build Appeal.”

to raise. The current fundraising

integral in progressing the development of a physical Charlie House support centre.

Founder of Charlie House, Tracy Johnstone said: “Myself and the wider board are thrilled to welcome Sheena and Roddy to the team.

“When looking for new board members, we consider specific skills that we may require to help with the charity's strategy, as well as a passion for charitable work and of

efforts total more than £4m and the

The new appointments also follow

charity recently launched the Buy a

the retirement of long-standing

Brick campaign to help raise money

trustee, Carol Eddie, who served on

for the appeal.

the board for 10 years.

To find out more about the Buy a

Tracy added: “On behalf of

Brick campaign and how you can

everyone at Charlie House, I’d like

help Charlie House build a

to thank Carol for all of her

dedicated support centre, visit

guidance over the last 10 years to

bigbuild.charliehouse.org.uk/buy-a-

the charity.

brick

“Carol has been with us from the very beginning, helping the charity develop from an initial idea to

Grampian Credit Union celebrates 30 years of service to members in the Grampian area Grampian Credit Union opened in May 1993 for Grampian Regional Council employees to save and access affordable loans.

O

ver the past 30 years, it has grown to become the largest Credit Union in the North East of

Scotland, serving members from their office at 250 Union Street Aberdeen.

May 2023 marks an amazing 30 years of providing an ethical financial alternative to people living and working in the Grampian area.

Since it was established in 1993, the Credit Union has increased its range of savings and now offers Adult, Junior and Christmas savings accounts. Affordable loans continue

to help many more Credit Union members, particularly in the present financial climate. To ensure their services are available throughout the North East, the Credit Union offer online joining, savings and loans applications – all to ensure members throughout the Grampian area can access their services.

The Credit Union office is open 10.00am to 4.00pm from Monday to Friday, and welcome members and enquiries at the office.

Grampian Credit Union is now continuing stronger than ever, with increased lending, more members

and savings growth. The Credit Union recognise that their success could not have been achieved without the support and loyalty of their members, and they want to thank everyone at this time.

Grampian Credit Union are looking forward to the next 30 years of service to members living and working in the Grampian area.

To find out more about Grampian Credit Union and the services that they provide, please visit their website at grampiancreditunion.co.uk

NEWS

ACVO News 20 May 2023

New outdoor photography exhibition celebrates Polish life in Aberdeen The University of Aberdeen's Cruickshank Botanic Garden will host an outdoor exhibition celebrating the contribution of the Polish community to life in the city.

'L

oons & Quines o' Seaton and Old Aberdeen' will

demonstrate the influences and contributions made by Poles who have made Aberdeen their home over the decades.

The author and originator of the project is Marta Surowiec, an award-winning graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts in Wroclaw, Poland who currently lives in Scotland and where she is engaged in activities for the Polish diaspora and popularising the history, culture and national heritage of Poland.

Photographs featured in the free exhibition were taken by University of Aberdeen graduate Dorota Puszkiewicz, who completed a Master of Letters in Visual Culture and Film at the institution.

The outdoor exhibition is the last event of a diverse six-part PolishScottish Mini Festival for 2023 organised by Polish Association Aberdeen. Earlier this year they hosted indoor exhibition ‘Who Are You?’ at the Trinity Centre, a 'Polish-Scottish Ceilidh' at Pittodrie Stadium together with concerts of 'Maria Peszek’, ‘New Musette Quartet’ and ‘Matthew Kilner Quartet’ and folk fusion concert with ‘Kosy’ and ‘Iona Fyfe’.

Marta said: “The exhibition represents Polish society in Aberdeen and is focused on developing the image of Poles and on promoting their integration in the community. It is the second of its kind, the first one was dedicated to Torry, and it will gradually cover all areas of Aberdeen.

“We use the outdoor exposition and the personal narratives to share the stories of how we’ve built connections with this city we now call home. To this end, each of the project’s participants chose a location that is special to them and explained why they felt a bond with this particular place. We’ve created our own map of Loons and Quines o’ Old Aberdeen and Seaton giving you the opportunity to get to know us better.”

Dorota, who took her first degree at Gray’s School of Art, said: “I am a graduate of both Aberdeen's universities and I am very pleased that the exhibition will be held at the University of Aberdeen. I hope it will serve to look at us, the Polish community, as part of the Aberdeen community that has a lot to give and that positively diversifies this place.

Professor George Boyne, Principaland Vice-Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, said: “We

are delighted to host a second outdoor exhibition in Cruickshank Botanic Garden in collaboration with the Polish Association of Aberdeen.

“It is an important community space and, as a place of continual growth and change, it is a fitting backdrop to an event celebrating community integration.”

Mateusz Łagoda, President of the Polish Association Aberdeen added: “The Polish-Scottish Mini Festival, organised by Polish Association Aberdeen proves that building a community based on connecting very diverse cultural environments is possible.

“Many Poles have made Aberdeen their homes, we feel proud of our contribution to our granite city and proud of our identity. What is more we want to bring out a festival that celebrates Aberdeen as our city of choice so that our friends, neighbours and work colleagues can understand a different culture and in addition to this people from the other parts of the country will visit to see our events.”

'Loons & Quines o' Seaton and Old Aberdeen' opened on Sunday 16 April and will run until Friday 30 June.

ACVO News 22 May 2023

NEWS

Homeshare UK are on the search for local social entrepreneurs in Aberdeen

Aberdeen, like many other places in Scotland, is experiencing high levels of social isolation across generations.

The third sector is doing everything it can to reduce these levels in Aberdeen and the associated concerns and worries that arise from someone struggling on their own: Aberdeen has befriending schemes, thousands of people volunteering and some fantastic projects that actively encourage health and well-being across the city.

The concept of Homeshare is growing and underpins important principles in developing healthy communities to withstand and adapt to changing circumstances both economically and socially.

Have a read of the following information, because if you are interested in making a difference in this critical area or know someone who does, you could be just what we need here in Aberdeen.

A

re you a social entre-

providing good quality affordable

preneur or community

accommodation for those struggling to

organisation in

find suitable space to call home during

Aberdeen looking for a new franchise

the rising cost of living.

opportunity that will impact your

Homeshare helps people to stay

community in a positive way?

Homeshare UK are looking for local social entrepreneurs in Aberdeen and across Scotland to connect with to expand our reach and offer a low-cost franchise opportunity.

independent in the places they love to live and builds community connections.

It is a mutually beneficial arrangement with both people having something they need and something to give.

Homeshare UK has a vision for a

Homeshare has distinctive

kinder, stronger society built around

characteristics:

people sharing their lives, skills, and homes where both the householder and homesharer can benefit from sociable housing and companionship.

It is not a regulated activity and the homesharer must not provide any element of personal care.

The homesharer provides practical

Homeshare is a sustainable low-cost

support which can include help with

solution supporting key challenges

shopping, cleaning, and cooking but

facing those living in the UK, including

more importantly the sharer must be

supporting an ageing population to live

prepared to live sociably in the

in their own homes for longer and

property, providing companionship

News 23 ACVO May 2023

to the householder.

Homeshare organisations play a pivotal role in the relationship.

They undertake all the key safety checks, make appropriate introductions, and provide ongoing support.

What is the role of the Homeshare UK franchisee?

NEWS

Our setup support includes: Scoping the requirements for a Homeshare service within your area. This includes a feasibility study, research with key stakeholders and business planning.

Access to our demographic profiling systems to assess the potential of your local market for a

The Homeshare UK franchisee

Homeshare service.

matches, monitors and provides

Use of our financial planning tool

ongoing support to Homeshare

for your business. Comprehensive

relationships on a case-by-case basis

induction training covering key

and carries out the necessary checks

policy and practice areas.

to ensure the Homeshare is safe and

Access to the Homeshare UK good

effective.

practice guide and resource library

Our social franchise offer provides a

that holds key pieces of research,

competitive business opportunity, with real financial returns, and maintains the high service delivery standards and underpinning values that we uphold.

At the heart of everything we do is to support our network to deliver a safe, effective, and professional Homeshare service. We are looking for suitable franchisees to deliver Homeshare in their local community.

quality assurance information and draft documents/ templates to support delivery of your Homeshare business.

Full package of business and bespoke mentoring support Marketing support, including a dedicated space on the Homeshare

Training of our bespoke Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.

Access to Workshops, seminars, and an annual conference with specialist advice.

The opportunity to attend six weekly franchisee meetings.

An invitation to the Shared Lives Plus Homeshare franchisee forum which enables franchisees to contact each other and Shared Lives Plus staff easily.

One householder sharing through Homeshare Living states: “It has been life changing having my homesharer living here especially in the dark winter evenings. It really has made a positive change in my life having someone so kind and friendly around and knowing that I am not alone.”

You can find out more about our Homeshare UK Franchise offer by visiting homeshareuk.org/franchise-

UK website, support to set up your

opportunities

social media channels, ongoing

Or contact our team by email at

training and support

contact@homeshareuk.org

ACVO News 24 May 2023

School pupils win £3000 for food poverty charity Isla, Rachael and Tasha from Bucksburn Academy secured the fund for Touch of Love Outreach after winning their school YPI Grand Final on Wednesday 26 April.

The team were one of six to take part in the school’s Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) Grand Final and impressed the panel of judges with their excellent presentation.

Other charities competing for the prize money included Grampian Women's Aid, Men United, Aberdeen First Responders, The Potter's Hand and We Too!.

The teams of S2 pupils showcased their communication and creativity skills as well as their passion and reasoning behind their chosen charities.

YPI, principally funded and introduced in Scotland by The Wood Foundation, is a unique programme of teamwork, creativity and competition.

A full year group in each secondary school take part in researching social issues in their communities, local charities who address these problems then together work in teams to create presentations to raise awareness of these social issues and charities.

Ultimately, one team secures their school’s £3000 grant for their chosen charity.

L-R: Tasha, Rachael, Isla and Jane Akadiri.

“You could see that Touch of Love Outreach were absolutely delighted being the recipient of the £3000. It will make a real difference in the tremendous work and volunteering that they do.”

Mike Melvin, Volunteering Services Manager at ACVO Isla, Rachael and Tasha of the winning team said: “We feel very shocked but so proud to have won the YPI final.

We first started our YPI journey at the end of December 2022 so we have been working on this for a long time.

We all have the same strong feelings on mental health and poverty so this is why we chose Touch of Love Outreach. We feel very proud to have won £3000 for them to use for their food parcels.”

The S2 students also sent out a message to pupils who will partake in YPI's programme in the future: “We would say be confident and trust yourself that you will get through it. Be proud as you are helping these charities.”

Mike Melvin, ACVO's Volunteering Services Manager and part of the YPI Judging Panel, said: “The recent YPI Final at Bucksburn Academy was excellent. All the presentations were fantastic and showed great knowledge, skills and interest in charities from all the participants.

You could see that Touch of Love Outreach were absolutely delighted being the recipient of the £3000. It will make a real difference in

the tremendous work and volunteering that they do. A huge thank you and congratulations to all involved at Bucksburn Academy and YPI for their continued exceptional support for people, volunteering and our communities.”

Jane Akadiri, Founder of Touch of Love Outreach, said: “I feel absolutely delighted to have won, I didn't expect it at all. The team were outstanding and they worked so hard.

One food parcel usually costs us around £15 to make, but with the rising costs this can now reach up to £23 per parcel.

With the £3000 fund, this will go directly to making up food parcels for around 150 families in Aberdeen. This is so rewarding and a huge accomplishment for the charity.”

Currently, YPI is active in 280 secondary schools across Scotland. Since 2008, they have empowered over 270,000 young people to direct more than £6m of grants to local charities.

To find out more about YPI, visit their website at ypiscotland.org.uk

ACVO News 26 May 2023

VOLUNTEERING

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

Exciting times for volunteering...

Forthcoming events, such as the Big Help Out on Monday 8th May and National Volunteers Week, 1st-7th June 2023, will once again highlight the important and incredible help volunteers provide in Aberdeen and across the country that we are so thankful for.

As well as participating in these marvellous occasions, ACVO are here to help you day in, day out regarding any volunteering matters. Whether you are an individual interested in volunteering or an organisation that involves volunteers, we are here for you. Have a look at our latest updates:

As part of the Coronation of King Charles III, Monday 8th May 2023 has been designated as Big Help Out day, which provides a fantastic and unique opportunity on a great, historic occasion to find out about volunteering.

We Too!, in partnership with ACVO and the Trinity Centre, are delighted to be hosting the Big Help Out Volunteering Fayre where you will be able to find information about the wonderful world of volunteering in Aberdeen.

We are honoured that the Lord Lieutenant of the City of Aberdeen/Lord Provost will kindly open the event.

Tune into the So Why Don't You... programme ACVO has on the excellent shmuFM community radio for all the latest third sector, community and volunteering information and news.

The Saltire Awards are national awards endorsed by the Scottish Government and is delivered in each local authority area by Third Sector Interfaces (ACVO in Aberdeen).

It is broadcast live every Friday, 23pm on 99.8fm and online at shmu.org.uk/fm and more information/link to listen to latest programme is available at: volunteeraberdeen.org.uk/organisa tions/shmu-radio/

The awards recognise the fantastic contribution young people aged 12-25 make volunteering and the achievements of young volunteers.

Likewise, if you would like to be a guest on the programme to speak about the great work and volunteering your organisation does, please email Mike.Melvin@acvo.org.uk

Certificates are awarded in recognition for undertaking 10, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 500 hours of volunteering.

For more details about the Saltire Awards, visit saltireawards.scot

Visit acvo.org.uk/volunteering for more information about volunteering in Aberdeen

Volunteer Fayre Join us & find out more about the wonderful world of volunteering!

Featuring stalls from...

MONDAY 8TH MAY Trinity Centre, Aberdeen

11AM - 2PM #TheBigHelpOut

VOLUNTEERING

ACVO News 28 May 2023

Say a big 'Thank You' to your volunteers in ACVO News!

National Volunteers Week (1st7th June) celebrates the millions of incredible volunteers throughout the country who do so much good for people and our communities - including of course all the amazing volunteers here in Aberdeen. The theme for this year’s week long celebration is ‘Celebrate and Inspire’.

As part of this, we will be doing a big Volunteers Week feature in ACVO News. We will also give a shout out on shmuFM which will include thank you messages from people and organisations to their volunteers for all the fantastic help volunteers provide.

If you wish to send a message for

your volunteers, email Mike.Melvin@acvo.org.uk and will be delighted to include and spread the word of all the great volunteering we have in Aberdeen that we are so thankful for.

Paul O'Connor MBE, Chair of ACVO stated "The board of ACVO is extremely proud of Aberdeen's amazing volunteers who have been the driving force behind our communities.

The support given to our organisations and citizens who face the challenges of the cost of living crisis, and to those who make a difference volunteering in so many ways across the city.

Through giving your greatest asset, your time, you inspire others to follow your positive example. You make a difference in people's lives in multiple ways and you are the glue that binds our communities together. So, thank you all for being Aberdeen's community heroes and for the difference you make."

The new Volunteers Week 2023 website also has lots of fantastic information, free resources and downloads including template 'Thank You' certificates, 'Thank You' cards and much more to help thank all our brilliant volunteers and celebrate Volunteers Week.

News 29 ACVO May 2023

Volunteer as a befriender with Aberdeen Linking Lives

and make a difference to the lives of people experiencing the negative effects of loneliness & isolation in the city

A

berdeen Linking Lives is a befriending service

aimed at adults who find themselves requiring some extra friendship and support, which is provided through weekly home visits or telephone calls. They match volunteers with those who are referred to them and all volunteers are carefully selected, trained and vetted.

They accept referrals from statutory organisations such as social workers, social prescribers, GP’s and community health practitioners, charities, friends and family

members or self-referrals. The service is available to adults living within Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire.

The role of a volunteer is to carry out a regular home visit or telephone call to an allocated ‘scheme member’ usually for one hour every one or two weeks. This contact is often a lifeline for those who are unable to leave their home very often, and who have little contact with others in the community.

The majority of volunteers report that they have an extremely positive experience within their

role and that they benefit from their experience as much as their allocated friend. Linking Lives are keen to build on this mutual benefit and encourage all volunteers to look for opportunities to celebrate and honour the achievements and experiences of scheme members.

With hundreds of people experiencing the negative effects of isolation in Aberdeen, your time can make a real difference and have a real positive impact.

Find out more about volunteering at linkinglives.uk/project/aberdeen/

ACVO News 30 May 2023

POLICY & CONSULTATIONS

Policy & Consultations The latest insights from ACVO & AVA's Policy & Consultations Officer, Alasdair Ross

New criteria for public sector grants Alasdair Ross writes on the forthcoming changes with the real Living Wage in Scotland

"Starting this summer, many third sector organisations will have to pay the real Living Wage in order to receive public money for their work" The Scottish Government have announced that, from 1 July, those applying for financial assistance from the public sector will need to pay their staff at least the real Living Wage and commit to Fair Work to be eligible for funding. The new requirements form

The real Living Wage is based on the

of the Scottish Government’s process

cost of living which makes it different

for purchasing and awarding contracts

to the National Minimum Wage and

and so may already be familiar to some

the National Living Wage. The rate of

in the Third Sector.

pay from May 2023 is £10.90 per hour (outside London) and is applicable to all staff over the age of 18.

Paying staff the real Living Wage is voluntary and organisations can choose to confirm their commitment to

Fair Work is a framework which aims

the wage by applying for accreditation

to encourage fulfilling work through

from Living Wage Scotland. A Living

the adoption of measures such as

Wage Action Group has been set up in

workforce development plans,

the city aiming to make Aberdeen a

employee engagement, flexible

Real Living Wage City At the moment

working, tackling the gender pay gap

there are only 23 accredited third

and creating inclusive workplaces.

sector organisations in Aberdeen City,

The new rules will apply to

which indicates there are significant

organisations receiving grants from the

issues to overcome for charitable and

Scottish Government, its enterprise

community organisations.

agencies and other public bodies. The full detail of the new criteria, including any exemptions, has been published and can be read at this link. There are few exemptions, new criteria are unlikely to apply to emergency grants or to situations where an organisation

The Fair Work Convention have developed a framework and a vision that “By 2025, people in Scotland will have a world-leading working life where fair work drives success, wellbeing and prosperity for individuals, businesses, organisations

part of the Scottish Government’s plan

is reliant on grant funding to survive.

to build a fairer and more equal

Fair Work and the payment of the real

tool is a good way to find out how well

economy.

Living Wage are already used as part

you are already doing.

and for society.” Their self-assessment

News 31 ACVO May 2023

POLICY & CONSULTATIONS

We believe the Third Sector is already

no guarantee on income levels from

in a strong position when it comes to

year to year. The real Living Wage

Fair Work and that employees,

increased by 10% this year. Will public

volunteers and supporters work hand-

sector grants increase by the same

in-hand with their trustees and

amount to allow the payment of

managers to make the lives of

increased wages?

managers to make the lives of

Time will tell, but it seems unlikely.

communities and people better every day. However, the economic landscape

If you have questions about the new

continues to be very unstable, and

policy, or about the real Living Wage

many third sector organisations are on

please contact our team of advisors

flat funding agreements with little or

who’ll be more than happy to help.

Alasdair Ross Policy and Consultations Offer ACVO TSI/ Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action

HAVE YOUR SAY: COMMUNITY WEALTH BUILDING CONSULTATION The Scottish Government Closes 9th May 2023

Overview

benefits from the wealth they help to generate. The

The Scottish Government has adopted the internationally

Programme for Government 2021-22 confirmed our

recognised Community Wealth Building (CWB) approach to

plans to introduce legislation on CWB during this

economic development as a key practical means by which

Parliamentary session. The legislation we plan to

progress can be made towards realising our wellbeing economy

introduce will accelerate the delivery of CWB across

vision outlined in the National Strategy for Economic

Scotland and address blockages identified by the areas

Transformation (NSET).

and organisations leading the implementation of CWB.

What is Community Wealth Building (CWB)

The Programme for Government 2022-23 outlined that

CWB is an approach designed to tackle long-standing economic challenges and transform Scotland’s local and regional economies by considering the ways in which the public sector, in partnership with the private, third and community sectors, can ensure more wealth is generated, circulated and retained in communities and localities. In short, CWB is focused on growing the influence communities have on the economy and ensuring communities receive more of the

we will hold a consultation on CWB legislation and we welcome a wide range of views on the changes that are required to grow local wealth and give communities a greater stake in the economy.

Find out more and have your say at

acvo.org.uk/policy

ACVO News 32 May 2023

FUNDING

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

Jordan Harkins, Head of Communications, Port of Aberdeen (front centre), with Nicky Donelan, Development Coach, Aberdeen Foyer (front left) and Graeme Smith, Group Treasurer, 55th Aberdeen (Kincorth) Scout Group (front right), joined by previous participants in the Foyer’s Community Wellbeing Challenge and members of the Scout Group.

Port of Aberdeen C provides £30,000 in funding to local communities

harities and community groups offering vital support to those living in Aberdeen have received

a £30,000 funding boost from Port of Aberdeen.

Through the port’s community action programme, supPORT-all, six charities operating locally to the port have benefitted from funding awards: Aberdeen Foyer: £7,500 to deliver a

Community Wellbeing Challenge; 55th Aberdeen (Kincorth) Scout

News 33 ACVO May 2023

FUNDING

Group: £7,500 to improve the

19, who said: “The Challenge gave me

Speaking at the Kincorth scout hall,

accessibility of the scout hall for the

more confidence and I made a

Graeme Smith, Group Treasurer, said:

community; Russell Anderson

difference; I got more exercise, and

“Our community scout hall has

Foundation: £5,000 to expand a

the course made me happy.” Another

provided a home to a diverse range of

community wellbeing project in

participant Jamie, 22, added: “The

groups in Kincorth for almost 60 years.

Torry; Loriston Parent Council:

Challenge encouraged me to throw

This generous funding from Port of

£5,000 to provide a healthy breakfast

myself into the deep end with no

Aberdeen will allow us to continue our

for all school pupils; Torry

pressure and no fear of failure.”

ongoing refurbishment programme and

Community Group: £2,500 to make

Aberdeen Foyer’s Development

ensure the hall can welcome all in our

improvements to Bruce Garden; Balnagask Community Council £2,500 to run a monthly supper club for elderly people and weekly lunch club for children.

Thanks to the funding donation, Aberdeen Foyer will run another series of its City Centre Community Challenge, which involves young people making improvements to local communities and neighbourhoods.

The charity, which works to end youth homelessness and alleviate the impact of poverty on young people, expects to support more than 250 people through the project.

Previous participants of the Community Challenge include Amy,

Coach, Nicky Donelan, said: “I am so

community.”

excited about the opportunities that

Jordan Harkins, Head of

Port of Aberdeen’s funding opens for

Communications at Port of Aberdeen,

us. It will have a massive reach

said: “We know how important local

throughout the Foyer enabling so

charities and community groups are

many groups to make huge

across the city, particularly during the

differences across Aberdeen city

cost-of-living crisis. These

whilst developing their own skills,

organisations need support continue or

confidence, and community

expand their invaluable work in the

involvement and connections.”

community and we’re proud to be

The donation to the Scout Group will

partnering with them this year.”

enable the construction of disabled toilet facilities and disabled ramp access to the scout hall, increasing increasing the amount of flexible, fitfor-purpose community space available in Kincorth, while improving the accessibility and quality of the building space for present users.

ACVO News 34 May 2023

FUNDING

Aberdeen City Council’s 2023/24 Creative Funding Scheme open for applications

T

also contributed about £393,500 in

It also supported Soundplay Projects

additional funding to the city.

North East, which used light, sound,

Aberdeen City Council Culture

and music to engage more than 300

Spokesperson Councillor Martin Greig

young people in school who have

and visiting the city with a fund of

said: “This programme is a great way to

additional support needs. A total of

£128,000 earmarked to deliver

support and enable artistic activities

735 adults and children also explored

creative activity in the city.

right across the city.

the high spec audio installation at

Previous years have had awards for

“Culture is important and should be

festivals, community groups, brand

enjoyed and experienced by as many

Organisations, charities, and

new arts organisations, and support

as possible. We, therefore, encourage

community groups can apply for up to

for projects run by individual artists

local artists and community groups to

£8,000 while individuals are able to

and established organisations.

think about applying so that they can

apply for up to £2,500 for the delivery

A range of projects can be

play a part in enriching the creative life

of participatory activity and projects,

considered such as performances,

of our city for the benefit of all."

and up to eight individual awards are

exhibitions, networking events or

In the last financial year, the

even something completely new and

programme supported Friends of

Deadline for applications is Sunday 4

innovative – there are few limitations

Elphinstone to create a Doric

June 2023 at 12midnight. Applicants

on the type of project that can be

anthology where 35 writers

will be notified of the outcome by

supported.

contributed contemporary prose

Thursday 20 July 2023.

In 2022-23, the programme

compiled into a pamphlet of new work

Visit Aberdeen City Council's website

which was distributed to every primary

to find out more, sign up for

school in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire

information sessions and to apply for

along with a learning pack.

the fund.

he programme supports the sector by facilitating new work to enrich the lives of people living in

supported 23 organisations and ten individuals whose projects reached an audience of more than 40,000 and

Aberdeen Art Gallery.

available to be allocated this year.

Want support

with third sector from the ACVO team

financial processes

Our new financial healthcheck service is available

free of charge for ACVO Members to help third sector organisations in Aberdeen self assess strengths and weaknesses in their finances with constructive feedback from ACVO's finance team

Financial

Healthcheck find out more at acvo.org.uk/finance

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

ACVO News 36 May 2023

Health & Social Care Updates

NHS Grampian Charity:

a new name and strategic plan

NHS Grampian Endowment Fund has announced its new operating name is NHS Grampian Charity, as part of a major rebrand for the organisation.

N

HS Grampian Charity is the official, legally-linked charity of NHS Grampian and is responsible for

managing donations made by supporters to ensure they are used to provide benefit to staff and patients, to enhance services, and to provide support in communities across Grampian. It is the largest health charity in the North-east, and the fourth largest NHS charity fund in Scotland.

Dennis Robertson, Chair of NHS Grampian Charity Committee, says

"This is an exciting time for the charity as we launch our new name, our new brand and our new strategic plan for the future. We have worked with our colleagues in the NHS and with the wider Grampian community to develop a brand and a strategic roadmap which clearly lays out our commitment to enhancing healthcare in the North-east.

“NHS Grampian Charity was founded

Development; Enabling Wellbeing;

under the NHS (Scotland) Act 1978,

Patient Experience; Transition &

and the health board has records of

Innovation; Environment.

charitable endowments and their incredible impact dating back more than 250 years. We are proud of the work accomplished by the charity to date, and the real impact that it has had on people’s lives. Since its inception the charity has provided advanced equipment to treat patients, made clinical settings feel more relaxed and comforting for patients, supported enhanced training and development for staff, funded research projects into a range of medical conditions, funded

The charity has strict criteria to make sure donations are only used to enhance the services that NHS Grampian provides, and not to replace statutory responsibilities.

Lisa Duthie, NHS Grampian Charity Lead, says: “Our new logo and brand have been designed by local social enterprise Foyer Graphics to clearly reflect who the charity is and what its purpose is. The logo is made up of three heart shapes to emphasise that the health of the people of Grampian is

community-led health and wellbeing

at the heart of what the charity is.

projects, and much more.

“The plus sign is made from two hearts

“We are very grateful to those who

in NHS Scotland colours, reflecting on

continue to donate to NHS Grampian Charity, and their support will allow us to continue growing and developing the charity in line with

the work done by the charity to enhance the work of our NHS, and the standalone heart represents the compassion and care the charity holds

current needs, and to provide

for our community.

targeted investment in a number of

“The charity has also adopted the

key areas, which will enhance the

strapline ‘Enhancing healthcare

health of people across the region.”

together’, to reflect its commitment to

As part of its new strategic aims, the

working alongside the NHS and

charity plans to provide targeted

community-led organisations for the

investment in the following areas:

health of the people of Grampian.”

Staff Health, Wellbeing &

You can find out more by visiting:

Development: Research &

www.nhsgcharities.com

News 37 ACVO May 2023

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE UPDATES

Lisa Duthie, NHS Grampian Charity Lead & Dennis Robertson, Chair of NHS Grampian Charity Committee

Opportunities

ACVO News 38 May 2023

ACVO Opportunities

Community Spaces Discover community & third sector venues in Aberdeen and

find the perfect space for your meeting or event

find more venues and submit yours for free at acvo.org.uk/spaces

Citymoves Schoolhill Studio Find out more at acvo.org.uk/spaces

Cost to hire: Get in touch for details Room Capacity: 60 people max

Citymoves Schoolhill Studio can be found across the street from the Aberdeen Art Gallery on the top floor of the Triple Kirks pub with the door located on the corner of Schoolhill and Belmont Street. Currently this location is the home of Citymoves residency programme and many of their evening classes.

This studio is available to hire and ideal for classes, workshops, birthday parties and it can be converted into a small performance space.

Facilities Room Capacity: 60 people max Facilities: Toilets Catering: Not available Wifi: Yes Equipment available: Stereo and speakers

Accessibility

Getting there Car parking: No parking but there is two car parks which are a 2 minute walk from the studio - Bon Accord Centre parking or Denburn Carpark behind His Majesty's Theatre.

Public transport: Bus services available on Union Street

Availability

Schoolhill Studio, Triplekirks, Top Floor, Schoolhill, Aberdeen, AB10 1JS

Accessibility: Lift available Hearing/visual impairment support: Not currently available

Normal opening hours: 9:30 - 17:00 (can open outwith these) 7 days a week (get in touch to discuss availability in more detail)

Opportunities

News 39 ACVO May 2023

Creative Funding Awards Aberdeen City Council Aberdeen has a unique culture, where traditions of the north-east flourish alongside contemporary creative activity. Aberdeen City Council recognises the intrinsic value of the arts as well as the benefits a strong cultural sector brings by improving the wellbeing of citizens, attracting tourism, and encouraging new businesses to trade in the city.

The Creative Funding programme offers cultural organisations with not for profit status, community groups, charities and individual artists or creatives the opportunity to apply for support to develop and/or deliver creative activity.

This funding has previously been awarded to festivals, community groups, brand new arts organisations and has supported projects from emerging individual artists through to established organisations. A range of projects can be considered for funding such as performances, exhibitions, networking events or even something completely new and innovative; there are very few limitations on the type of creative project that can be supported.

Organisations with not for profit status can apply for awards of up to £8,000.

Individuals who are Aberdeen City residents can apply for awards of up to £2,500. There are up to 8 awards allocated annually.

Arts & Culture Funding Available: up to £8000 for organisations/£2,500 for individuals Applications close: 04/06/23

Find out more at acvo.org.uk/opportunities

The Triangle Trust 1949 Fund Young Offender Grants The Triangle Trust

Community Justice Funding Available: Max £40,000 per year

Applications close: 21/05/2023

The Triangle Trust work with young people with criminal convictions or those who are at high risk of committing a first offence. In 2023 they will be funding work that uses a Sport for Development approach to reduce reoffending and first offence rates.

They run two grant rounds each year – one for work supporting young people who have a criminal conviction on their record and one for young people who are considered high risk and on the edge of the criminal justice system.

Funding can only be used to work with young offenders even if your organisation works with vulnerable young people more broadly. They will prioritise proposals that provide specialist support to target: Young people who are from Black or minoritised/racialised communities (often referred to as Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities), Young women and girls, and Young people who have experienced the care system All organisations must be working in the UK with a UK office and have an annual income of less than £1 million to be eligible to apply.

Find Findout outmore moreat onacvo.org.uk/opportunities ACVO Events

Funding discover more funding opportunities collected with Aberdeen's third sector in mind on our funding portal at

acvo.org.uk/opportunities/funding

Opportunities

ACVO News 40 May 2023

Volunteering Get involved with your community in Aberdeen find more opportunities and submit yours at acvo.org.uk/volunteering

Look Again Volunteers Look Again Look Again hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year all designed to connect, highlight and strengthen the creative sector and community in North East Scotland.

The Look Again team have two spaces in town for showcasing art within an exhibition capacity in Aberdeen. One is named the Look Again Project Space, at 32 St Andrews Street, which we have had for a few years now. The other is at 1-5 George Street and is a recent addition to our cohort. We are looking for volunteers to join us at the weekends to help us with invigilating our exhibitions.

We also have other events such as Art Pints, which are relaxed chit chat nights, which are currently held at the Lemon Tree. These events happen each month and we are also looking for people to greet visitors at the doors and hand out free drink tokens.

If you are interested in helping out, please fill out the volunteer interest form at: bit.ly/lookagainvolunteers We have a Whatsapp chat as well where we advertise our volunteer times, which we will add you to if you fill out the form.

A fantastic opportunity to help with the vibrant arts and creative sector in Aberdeen.

Find out more Caitlin Robb c.robb14@rgu.ac.uk

View further details online

Festival Admin Assistant Aberdeen Mela

Find out more Ahashan Habib, Aberdeen Multicultural Centre CEO a.habib@abmc.org.uk 07588529412 View further details

A great opportunity to assist with admin. tasks for a major event – the Aberdeen Mela Festival 2023.

Aberdeen Multicultural Centre is a user led charity, dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the diverse communities in Aberdeen. AMC encourages cooperation and integration amongst diverse community groups as well as building harmony and exchanging cultural and language diversity within the communities.

The organisation’s vibrant aims are to support communities and the society from social, economic, welfare and environmental perspectives. AMC would like to see greater social integration, remove social isolation organising different cultural activities and improve economic life through community development projects.

We are looking for administration assistant volunteer support to help us at the Aberdeen Multicultural Association for a few hours per week over 2 days.

All help makes a difference and is greatly appreciated. It is also the opportunity to be part of an important, wonderful, major event in Aberdeen.

News 41 ACVO May 2023

Opportunities

Gardener/Outdoor Creative Volunteers Aberlour Options – Aberdeen Could you help create and maintain an innovative garden space for young people to use? Could you spare a few hours a week? We are currently looking for volunteers to create a fun, safe, sensory garden space and undertake garden maintenance for our children’s services.

Options Aberdeen provide short breaks and care at home for children and young people with a disability. Our services allow families to feel supported and take a break from their caring roles.

(NB: This role does not necessarily involve direct work with young people, but rather taking care of the garden for them to use. We are looking for volunteers who can take their own direction and use their own initiative, and you will be free to come to our centre out with the hours that the young people are there or, if you choose to, you can volunteer at times when they are there.)

What will I be doing?

• Creating a fun, usable, safe gardening space • Tree/ bush pruning, clearing leaves, weeding, planting and fence painting • Creating outdoor features and a sensory space • Creating a safe and innovative garden space to enable activities to take place.

Find out more Kathaleen Harvey volunteering@aberlour.org.uk View further details online

Volunteer Nightstop Hosts Aberdeen Foyer / Nightstop Nightstop North-East Scotland offers temporary, emergency accommodation for young people facing homelessness. A young person accessing this service could be facing homelessness for any number of reasons, with 75% of referrals being due to a breakdown of relationships at home. This accommodation is offered in the homes of trained and vetted volunteers, who are supported by professional staff. Hosts can be anyone, with the only requirements being that they must be able to provide a spare room, a hot evening meal and a listening ear. This offers an accommodation option which may be more suitable for young people than traditional homeless hostels.

In Aberdeen City and Shire, the total number of young people who presented as homeless in 2020/21 was 720, which means young people make up a disproportionate Find out more level of homelessness presentations in the area. This shows a particular need for young person-centred options. Nightstop prevents young people from entering into a neverending cycle of homelessness by providing them with a safe place to stay for a few Megan Douglas, Nightstop Co-ordinator nights while they decide their next steps. It also helps them to address their individual support needs, while enabling them to maintain any education, employment or Megan.Douglas@aberdeenfoyer.com training they are involved in. Aberdeen Foyer will also provide additional advice and support available through our wide range of services, should that be needed.

07467 919813 Nightstop are currently looking for volunteer hosts. Hosts are offered a £15 stipend per night when Hosting and 24/7 on-call support is available throughout the stay.

View further details online

Aberdeen Race for Life Volunteers Cancer Research UK The spectacular Aberdeen Race for Life takes place on Sunday 2nd July 2023 at Kings Links, Beach Esplanade, Aberdeen.Our Race for Life events couldn’t happen without volunteers. Whatever time and skills you have to share, we’ve got a great role for you. Just bring your energy, smiles and passion to the party and let’s help beat cancer together.

Course Marshal Volunteer - Cheer on our participants as they take part and lift some spirits along the way. You also ensure their safety and that they’re going in the right direction through the course. Your support will spur them on!

Enquiries Volunteer - With the excitement of race day there’s bound to be questions!

You can help by supporting our participants and spectators with their queries.

Finish Line Volunteer - You might be asked to help out at our buzzing finish line, where you will hand out water and medals and welcome our participants back with a smile.

Lead Bike - Lead our fastest runners around the course, showing them the way to a personal best. (Own bike required).

Water Station - Fuel our runners and walkers at their mid-way point on the course.

Find out more Lauren Robertson, Senior Area Events Manager lauren.robertson@cancer.org.uk 07768857661 View further details online

Opportunities

ACVO News 42 May 2023

Community Connecting Service Volunteers Age Scotland Our statistics have revealed that 218,000 over 50s in Scotland say they feel lonely all or most of the time. As people get older, it can be harder to maintain social connections. Retirement, bereavement or moving somewhere new can leave people feeling lonely and isolated.

That’s where you come in!

The Age Scotland Community Connecting Service aims to connect older people across Scotland to social groups and clubs in their local community.

To assist in this we have great opportunities to help in the following ways: Community Connectors: Further information Community Researchers: Further information Excellent support and relevant training is provided to all volunteers. Includes full training and ongoing support for the duration of your volunteering with Age Scotland. Volunteer’s can also access other Age Scotland workshops free of charge- including Dementia Awareness (CPD accredited) and Older Veterans’ Awareness sessions.

Find out more Ashley Marr, Age Scotland Friendship Manager ashley.marr@agescotland.org.uk 03333 232400 View further details online

Volunteer Befrienders – Aberdeen Financial Resilience Project TLC – Befriending Service

Find out more Jonny Astill volunteer@tlc.org.uk View further details online

We can all feel lonely and isolated at times and those feelings can be more intense and devastating if you are also facing financial hardship.

Aberdeen North and South Foodbanks have come together, with funding from the Trussell Trust, to provide a financial resilience service where individuals who require a food parcel can receive money, debt, and energy advice. Aberdeen Citizen Advice Bureau will provide this advice.

This service which will support those struggling with financial hardship will be supported by our Befriending Project. Volunteer befrienders will encourage those referred, to engage with the wider project.

Our aim is to ensure that our trained and compassionate volunteers provide a lifeline to people, in the form of friendship and offer a helping hand to enable them to engage with the financial support on offer.

If you would like to be a part of this holistic service, please apply to become a Volunteer Befriender.

Excellent support and relevant training is provided to all volunteers. Includes two core training nights which gives befrienders the knowledge and skills required before starting, as well as continuous training every few months to build on befriender knowledge and skills.

Community Garden Volunteers Springhill Community Garden Springhill Community Garden seeks to provide a space which includes growing opportunities for food and beauty, as well as supporting wildlife.

Raised beds are available for individuals to grow food for themselves, as well as communal beds for growing larger crops such as potatoes and beans.

Through community links with local schools, youth groups and businesses, the garden seeks to promote a sense of community working together to build something for others.

We are looking to create a community of gardeners – no experience necessary. As well as growing your own food, the garden presents an opportunity to develop educational workshops and social events, cultivate wildlife, and engage with other community groups in the area.

A fantastic opportunity to help in a wonderful Community Garden. For more information please contact Pamela McEwan, Committee Member at email: springhillcommunity@gardener.com or telephone: 07842 261037.

Find out more Pamela McEwan springhillcommunity@gardener.com 07842 261037 View further details online

News 43 ACVO May 2023

Opportunities Cultivate Aberdeen Volunteers Cultivate Aberdeen Cultivate your Community!

Find out more info@cultivateaberdeen.co.uk

01224 034591 View further details online

Cultivate Aberdeen has a clear vision to create kind, confident, and connected communities through the power of food growing. How that vision manifests means different things to many people, it belongs to our community and it belongs to you; come and join the conversation and food revolution.

For more information and details of how you can get involved as a volunteer with Cultivate Aberdeen please visit cultivateaberdeen.co.uk/get-involved/volunteer/ , email us at: info@cultivateaberdeen.co.uk or telephone: 01224 034591.

We are a volunteer led organisation and therefore you are at the heart of everything we do. Without the generous donations of time, commitment, and experience from individuals across the City and further afield we would not be able to achieve all that we set out to.

There’s something for everyone - Community Gardener; Clean-Up Volunteer; Fundraising Volunteer; Digital Volunteer; Student Volunteering; Corporate Volunteering

Bucket Collection Volunteers Bipolar Scotland Have you always wanted to volunteer but can’t commit to regular hours? Do you want to help raise awareness and funds for Bipolar Scotland? Then this is the role for you! Bucket Collection volunteering offers flexible volunteering opportunities all over Scotland.

Volunteering for our fundraising team is a fun and exciting way to support Bipolar Scotland by raising funds. We want to build our presence in local communities and continue to host community events and bucket collections all over the country.

In return you will make new friends, gain skills and build your confidence while letting you play a key role in your community. It can also improve your career prospects and adds invaluable volunteering experience to your cv.

What you’ll do Support us during organised bucket collections at supermarkets, shopping centres, train stations and football grounds.

Be happy to talk to passers-by encouraging them to donate.

Work with our enthusiastic fundraising team, including staff and volunteers.

Don’t get easily offended or put off by rejection.

Count and bank money ( PVG checked Volunteers) Volunteer on an ad hoc basis, chose from a variety of locations, dates and times that suit you, no weekly commitment required.

Find out more Aimee Russell aimee.russell@bipolarscotland.org.uk View further details online

Guide Dog Puppy raiser Guide Dogs You will be providing a puppy with a vital foundation for its future role as a guide dog. This is a full-time volunteering opportunity as a puppy will live with you in your home for around 12-16 months.

It should be noted that although it is possible for another Puppy Raiser to look after a dog on your behalf for short periods of time that this may not always be possible.

Consideration should be given to your future plans such as holidays abroad.

Find out more Aaron Puckrin aaron.puckrin@guidedogs.org.uk View further details online

We rely on volunteers like you to help us improve the lives of people with sight loss.

In this role your support will include: Developing, caring and providing for the needs of one of our puppies using Positive Reinforcement Techniques and following Guide Dogs Puppy Raising for Excellent Partnerships (PREP) programme Familiarising a puppy to a wide range of environments including shops and outdoor off lead exercise areas in all climates and seasons.

Teaching a puppy it’s ok to be left alone by gradually building up from a few minutes to a maximum of 4 hours Attending regular puppy classes

Opportunities

ACVO News 44 May 2023

Events Events in May

8th

5th-6th

12th

Rise Up! Festival

Big Help Out Volunteering Fayre

Aberdeen Foyer Open Day

Rise Up! Festival is back celebrating Black and People of Colour creatives in Aberdeen and Scotland. Taking place on May 5 and 6 at the Music Hall and The Lemon Tree, this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever.

Organised by We Are Here Scotland and commissioned by Aberdeen Performing Arts, the festival aims to showcase the talents of Black and People of Colour creatives from Scotland and beyond.

The event includes workshops, panels, performances, and a live podcast.

This year’s festival boasts some firsts in its programme including a Cabaret kicking the weekend off on Friday, 5 May. It features a diverse array of performances, including poetry from acclaimed Scottish writer and performer Courtney Stoddart and a comedy set from the hilarious Safeena Rashid.

Workshops/panels and events for young people are free but ticketed - book via Aberdeen Performing Arts.

Cabaret Night and Evening Concert have tiered ticket 'pay what you can' costs from £2-£10

We Too! charity in partnership with ACVO and the Trinity Centre are delighted to be hosting the Big Help Out Volunteering Fayre for where you will be able to find information about the wonderful world of volunteering, the range of volunteer opportunities people can help with, get a taste of what volunteering is all about.

We are honoured that the Lord Lieutenant of the City of Aberdeen/Lord Provost will kindly open the event.

Featuring local Aberdeen organisations: Aberdeen Foyer – Nightstop North-East Scotland, Aberlour, ACVO, Asthma and Allergy Foundation, Barnardo’s Aberdeen Young Carers’, British Heart Foundation, CHAS-Children’s Hospices Across Scotland, Childline, Denis Law Legacy Trust, Girlguiding Aberdeen & Shetland, Grampian Opportunities, Guide Dogs Aberdeen Branch, Inchgarth Community Centre, Legion Scotland, Rape Crisis Grampian, RNLI – Aberdeen Lifeboat Station, shmu, Soroptimist International of Aberdeen, STAND International, Street Soccer Scotland, Team Jak – Jaks Den Aberdeen, TLC Befriending, Touch of Love Outreach, We Too! charity

We are delighted to invite you to drop in and join us for our Open Day at Aberdeen Foyer’s Marywell Centre!

The Foyer Team will be on hand throughout the day to answer questions and share information about the support and opportunities on offer. Visit us to hear stories from people who use our services and the positive impact they are making in their lives. You can also take part in activities throughout the day or relax in a quiet space for a cuppa and possibly a catch up too!

Food plays a vital role at the Foyer. It means warmth, friendship, healing, treats, feeling good, sitting down together, kindness, amazing smells, trying new things and thriving one meal at a time.

We are therefore honoured to have the city’s Lord Provost join us at 10am for the official launch of our newly refurbished Marywell Kitchen.

Our new kitchen and volunteers will be offering refreshments and a warm welcome throughout the day.

Come and bide a while.

Date

May 5th & 6th 2023

Date

May 8th 2023

Date

May 12th 2023

Time

Various times - see link for details

Time

11:00am - 2:00pm

Time

09:30am - 2:15pm

Cost

Free

Cost

Free

Cost

Free

Organiser

We are Here Scotland

Organiser

We Too!/ACVO

Organiser

Aberdeen Foyer

Venue

Aberdeen Music Hall/ Lemon Tree

Venue

The Trinity Centre 155 Union St, Aberdeen AB11 6BE

Venue

Marywell Centre, Marywell St, Aberdeen AB11 6JF

Find more via APA Find outout more on ACVO Events

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Find out more on ACVO Events

News 45 ACVO May 2023

Opportunities

Web Accessibility — Inclusive Design for the Third Secto

Aberdeen Social Enterprise Event

Accessible web design is crucial to providing everyone with equal access to the same information, services, and experiences.

During this workshop, we will look at: What is web accessibility, and why does it matter?

Accessibility and the law Web Accessibility in a third Sector environment, Introduction to assistive technology Anatomy of a website — where can things go wrong This session is open to any charity sector employees and volunteers across the UK. About the trainer Wojtek Kutyla provides independent user experience and digital accessibility consultancy services. Often engaged in training, he’s aiming to empower businesses with tools that would allow them to design mindfully — and sustainably. His special interest lies in inclusive design. Wojtek works internationally from his base in Edinburgh, UK.

Join Social Enterprise Scotland and a range of speakers from across the social enterprise sector at this in-person session in Aberdeen.

Delivered in partnership with ACVO the event will cover a wide range of local and national support that is available for social enterprise in Aberdeen.

Speakers Aberdeen Council Voluntary Organisations, Social Enterprise Scotland, Aberdeen Social Enterprise Network Just Enterprise, Accelerate and the Social Enterprise Academy Schools programme.

There will also be opportunities for discussion and networking Social Enterprise Scotland are an independent, membership-led organisation, which has united and represented social enterprises for more than 15 years.

As the representative body for social enterprises in Scotland, they are growing a collaborative movement so that all social enterprises have a stronger collective voice.

ACVO Member Session – Introduction to Managing Staff In this session GCVS will cover how to support those new to line management responsibilities. This session will give an overview of how to work successfully with your team whether one person or a dozen staff. We will look at recruitment, induction, absence, performance, supervision, discipline etc.

ACVO Members now benefit from free HR and Health & Safety support from GCVS (Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector), our partner Third Sector Interface based in Glasgow.

Also, as an ACVO member as well as the free support available, you also benefit from 25% off consultancy, recruitment and subscription.

Not an ACVO Member yet? Membership is open to all third sector organisations with a governing document operating in the city of Aberdeen.

Annual subscription costs start at as little as £25 per year – find out more and sign up to become a member of ACVO at acvo.org.uk/membership

Date

May 16th 2023

Date

May 23rd 2023

Date

May 23rd 2023

Time

11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Time

1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Time

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Cost

free

Cost

Free

Cost

Free

Organiser

Third Sector Lab

Organiser

Social Enterprise Scotland

Organiser

GCVS/ACVO TSI

Venue

Aberdeen Science Centre, 179 Constitution St, Aberdeen AB24 5TU

Venue

Online

Venue

Online

Find out more on ACVO Events

16th

Find out more on ACVO Events

23rd

Find out more on ACVO Events

23rd

Discover more events from and for Aberdeen's third sector and add yours free of charge to our public calendar at

acvo.org.uk/events

Opportunities

ACVO News 46 May 2023

Find a rewarding career within Aberdeen's third sector- keep up to date with recent vacancies at

Vacancies

acv o.o rg. uk/

va ca nc ies

Project Manager (Fixed Term 2 Years) Grampian Housing Association £44,778 - £49,754 max entry point £46,769 Closing date: 04/05/2023

Fixed Term

Full time

35 hours per week

Aberdeen

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

At Grampian, we strive to place people at the centre of everything we do; improving work and the workplace for everyone. We are currently looking for a Project Manager who will be responsible for ensuring projects are delivered using a best-practice Project Management and Delivery Approach.

As Project Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring they are delivered within the agreed scope, time, cost and quality and in line with the approved business case. You will have the opportunity to work with key stakeholders in the Grampian Housing Association Group at various levels to deliver specified project outputs.

This role focusses on two key areas of responsibility: Managing a portfolio of organisational business transformation projects; providing expert knowledge and support, monitoring progress, driving the business towards delivery and reporting on project status.

Working with the Group Executive team in the design, development, introduction, training and on-going iteration of the Groups Project Management Methodology.

To be successful in this role, you will have a recognised formal project/programme management qualification such as PMP, Prince2 or MSP. Strong project or programme management and excellent organisational skills are fundamental, as is the ability to liaise with people at all levels of the organisation.

We are looking for someone who has strong leadership in a matrix environment and who is open-minded with a ‘can-do’ attitude and the ability to encourage innovation, embrace change and display resilience against adversity.

Grampian is already a great place to work, we hope you can help us to make it even better!

ACIS Information Officer Mental Health Aberdeen - Aberdeen Counselling and Information Service (ACIS) £18,624 - £19,476 Aberdeen

Part Time

12 hours per week

Closing date: 05/05/2023

Permanent

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

ACIS is looking for a Part-Time Information Officer for our very busy city centre service.

The successful candidate should have excellent administration and IT skills, be a good communicator, and have the ability to multi-task and keep calm in sometimes stressful situations.

The 12-hour-per-week role requires the post-holder to be available 4pm-8pm Mondays and Tuesdays, with flexibility to cover sick leave and annual leave for shifts ranging from 9am-1pm, 1pm-5pm and 5pm-9pm Monday-Thursday, and 9am-4pm and 1pm-5pm on Friday.

The successful applicant will require a PVG check, which will be paid for by MHA. Application forms to be completed by hand and returned to our Central Office.

For more information, and/or an application pack, please send your name and postal address to Laura (Counselling Services Manager) via lsimmons@mhaberdeen.org.uk or by phoning 01224 590510.

Opportunities

News 47 ACVO May 2023

Multi-Disciplinary Safeguarding Training Officer Aberlour £32,150 per annum, pro rata Aberdeen

Part time

Closing date: 09/05/2023

30 hours per week

Fixed Term

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

Aberlour Futures is an SVQ Training and Assessment Centre with an excellent reputation, earned over 20 years, for delivering high quality vocational education and training for the Early Learning and Child Care workforce in Aberdeen City and Shire.

Aberlour Futures are commissioned by Aberdeen City Council to provide a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Training Programme for all staff in the NHS, Police, Education, Social Work, Early Learning and Childcare services. This Training Programme equips them to deliver their responsibilities in line with legislation and guidance relating to Getting it Right for Every Child and safeguarding children and young people.

What we are looking for….

Working 30 hours per week, we are looking to recruit an enthusiastic, confident and experienced practitioner with demonstrable experience of children’s services and multi-agency working.

You will be required to work collaboratively to provide a professional learning programme across key areas of practice in GIRFEC and safeguarding children and young people. This post is being offered on a Fixed Term basis until 30th June 2024, at present, Aberdeen City Council intend to continue the contract beyond June 2024.

You should be a great communicator and confident trainer with experience in delivering training to support the CPL needs of staff in your sector.

You should be able to work flexibly as some courses are delivered at different times in different locally based venues throughout Aberdeen City as well as online.

Lead Practitioner Aberlour £31,819 per year

Full Time

Closing date: 14/05/2023

37.5 hours per week

Aberdeen

Permanent

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

Our service has been developed in partnership with Aberdeen City Council and Grampian Autistic Society and provides a mix of care at home, community and residential short breaks. Our exciting programme enables children with complex disabilities to have new experiences and make new friends. At the same time, their families are enabled to have a crucial break to recharge and refresh their batteries enabling them to maintain the high level of support their children need when they return home from their short break. The Hub also provides holistic family support through a menu of services that support and complement direct support offered to children and young people. Working with the children is not a ‘quick fix’ but a long-term endeavour supporting them to make small incremental change that over time becomes significant. The role is challenging but also immensely rewarding.

Are you committed to delivering best practice to support children and young people with complex needs? Are you ready to use your experience and skill to shape practice in delivering quality services to children and young people? Do you feel excited about the opportunity to take your first step towards a management position?

If so, this is a great opportunity for you.

We are looking to recruit a Lead Practitioner working a range of shifts including evenings, weekends and sleepovers in a residential child care setting. You will have the confidence to guide and direct the provision of care to the children and young people in the service. You will play a pivotal role, working in partnership with parents and families to meet the emotional and physical needs of children and young people with complex disabilities.

When on shift, you will play a lead role, mentoring and supporting staff and being a role model, delivering excellence in the services we provide. You will assist in assessing, planning and delivering services, taking responsibility for ensuring that assessment and interventions are prepared, monitored and evaluated in line with the children’s and young people’s goals.

Engaging positively with children, young people and families you will plan and implement appropriate support for the children and young people. Sensitive and accurate reporting is a key responsibility and so you will have good written communication skills and the ability to learn how to use effectively, Aberlour’s recording system: Dynamics.

At Aberlour we want to make sure every child and young person has the love, support and opportunity they need to reach their potential. If you share the same vision, we want you to join our team. At Aberlour we have strong values – Respect, Integrity, Innovation and Challenging – which influence our everyday work. If you choose to apply for this role please tell us about your values in your supporting statement.

Opportunities

ACVO News 48 May 2023

Recovery and Resettlement Worker Bethany Christian Trust £10,152 – £11,110pa (£25,380 – £27,776 pa pro rata) Permanent

Aberdeen

Part time

Closing date: 16/05/2023

15 hours per week (0.4 FTE)

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

Are you passionate about substance recovery and preventing homelessness in the north of Scotland?

For the past seven years, Bethany Christian Trust have been delivering a community-based addiction recovery program in Scotland. As the demand for this service grows, we are looking for a candidate who will lead, develop and deliver Bethany’s Bridge to Freedom program within a group setting. A significant part of the role will also be to facilitate and develop recovery and resettlement work in partnership with churches and other organisations around Aberdeen.

It is essential that you have experience in facilitating, planning and working with vulnerable people in a community setting. A qualification in Social Work, Social Care, Community Education or related discipline is essential, or a willingness to work towards such a qualification.

As Bethany is a Christian organisation this post carries an Occupational Requirement in line with Equality Act 2010.

Please note that one reference must be from your church minister or leader to endorse your live and active Christian faith and commitment. Successful applicants for this post will require membership of the PVG scheme.

Job details To lead, facilitate and develop recovery and resettlement work in partnership with churches and other organisations including the use of Bridge to Freedom (BtF) resources. Identifying those in need and creating positive pathways that allow people that use our services to fulfil their potential by providing ongoing support and encouragement that enables long-term transformation.

Coordinate, prepare and facilitate delivery of the Bridge to Freedom programme with partner organisations as agreed with line manager.

Engage with and assess the needs of participants in order to provide support that is best suited to their needs. This will include 1-2-1 sessions that raise awareness of services, courses and activities available as well as offering emotional support.

Build relationships with key stakeholders (local churches, Health, Social Work Services) to create sustainable ongoing support for people that use our services.

Train and support volunteers to actively work with those who use our services (protected adults) to ensure a safe and positive environment where trusting relationships can be fostered and participants feel comfortable.

Assistant Coordinator Silver City Surfers £18.50 per hour Fixed Term

Part Time

up to 7 hours per week

Closing date: 06/05/2023

Aberdeen (Work from home)

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

This is an excellent part-time opportunity, based in Aberdeen City, for a people-oriented technology enthusiast with multi-tasking abilities and good organisational skills.

To assist the Coordinator to support and develop Silver City Surfer (SCS) services which meet the needs of our target group of learners (i.e. adults who want to gain new technology skills) through volunteer supported initiatives including internet café and one-to-one tuition.

Main Responsibilities To take a lead role at agreed sessions, specifically the Central Library on Saturday mornings session To participate in outreach sessions when required To organise the sessions you are responsible for, ensuring that there are sufficient resources and volunteers To represent SCS at agreed meetings To attend to administrative duties as directed This role is offered on a contractual/self-employed basis for up to 7 hours per week and is for six months initially with potential for renewal thereafter.

Hours are flexible but with a fixed session on Saturday mornings.

To apply for this role, please email silvercitysurfers.trustees@gmail.com

Opportunities

News 49 ACVO May 2023

Head of Partnerships and Philanthropy CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland) Outstanding package including relocation expenses Hybrid

Closing date: 07/05/2023

Full Time

Permanent

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

CHAS has been operating in Scotland for 30 years. It offers a whole range of support for the thousands of children with a life shortening illness and their families. This includes palliative care, family respite and support. This is delivered through its two hospices in Kinross and Balloch, homecare services and by having a hospital presence.

This is one of Scotland’s most high profile and respected charities. Not just for the work it does but for its impressive fundraising. It currently generates £10 million per annum across the whole range of income channels. However, that still only enables it to reach 1 in 3 families that could benefit from its support. It wants to do so much more.

Its new Head of Partnerships and Philanthropy will play a crucial role in sustaining the current level of income and growing donations through major gift fundraising. This person will lead a team of 10 across corporate partnerships, high profile events, grants and trusts and major donors. The current income generated by this team is circa £2.5 million with ambitions to grow this to £3 million within the next 5 years. CHAS believes there is lots of untapped potential in this area.

The person we are looking for needs to be a major gift expert with an emphasis on major donor fundraising. You will be part of the leadership team within the Fundraising and Communications Directorate and will support the overall strategy for growth. You will represent the department on other cross organisational committees and deputise for the Director on occasion. (This is a responsibility shared with the other senior managers). You will need deep and senior experience in strategy development and successful delivery, campaign planning and management, volunteer management and line management.

You will need to be passionate about the work of hospices and comfortable in that setting. It goes without saying that you will be committed to ethical codes of conduct when it comes to fundraising and completely aligned with CHAS’s values.

As well as being tenacious and determined to succeed, CHAS asks you to bring a little fun into the workplace. This, too, is what makes it a special place to work.

In return, you will be offered an excellent remuneration package with outstanding benefits including a generous pension and if moving from out with Scotland, relocation financial support is available.

This is a fantastic opportunity with a very special organisation.

Head of Services Archway £46,722 - £49,480 Permanent

Full Time

35 hours per week

Closing date: 12/05/2023

Aberdeen City/Aberdeenshire

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

Following a period of growth and development we are looking to enhance our senior management team. We are looking for a dynamic and driven individual to join us as Head of Services. The successful postholder will also be responsible for deputising for our General Manager.

The Head of Services will be responsible for the overall operational management and delivery of the Company’s services.

These services include permanent care, residential respite, supported living and care at home.

Established in 1986 Archway have been providing care and support for children and adults with learning disabilities from Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire for over 30 years.

For an informal discussion about the role please contact Emma Watson (General Manager) emma.watson@archway.org.uk Interviews w/c 22nd May 2023 For further information and to apply visit: https://www.archway.org.uk/work-with-us/

Opportunities

ACVO News 50 May 2023

Outreach Worker Venture Trust £25,700

37.5 per week

Full Time

Closing date: 09/05/2023

Permanent

Aberdeen

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

Do you have a passion for enabling individuals to make a positive change in their lives? We’d love to hear from you.

We’re excited to have the opportunity to recruit a new Outreach Worker covering the regions of Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.

Who we are: Venture Trust works with people experiencing complicated life circumstances. Through the provision of wilderness-based personal and social development programmes, we equip them with the confidence, motivation and core life skills that they need to make positive changes in their lives.

The role: Our Outreach Workers: work in the community with participants predominately aged 16-40 from various backgrounds deliver high quality participant support across the range of Venture Trust programmes engage with participants in dynamic and progressive community and wilderness-based personal development opportunities If you have any questions regarding the role, please contact HR – hrteam@venturetrust.org.uk

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