The editorial team of the Torry Vision want to hear from you.
The team are introducing a new interactive section to the magazine and want to hear from the community.
In this section, you can write to the editors of Torry Vision, let us know of issues and events taking place in the community, send us your thoughts on topics we have covered. Have your say of what you want to see represented in the magazine and what you’d like to read.
Please email rose.ross@shmu.org.uk with the email subject TV Letters to the Editors to have your letter included in the magazine.
Welcome to the summer edition of Torry Vision.
There’s plenty of green fingered activity going on across Torry this Autumn, read on to find out how you can get involved. We also have info on where to get a hot meal and more!’
If you would like to get involved and join the editorial team or if you have ideas for the community publication, you can easily get in touch with us. The staff at shmu are able to support and train anyone living in the area who is interested in developing their ideas and skills in either writing, photography or proof reading. So please don’t be shy, this is your magazine written, edited and designed by the good folk of Torry.
If you live in Torry and would like to come along to the editorial meetings or submit an article then get in touch with Rose at shmu on 07752586312/ 01224 515 013 or you can email her on rose.ross@shmu.org.uk.
You can also view this magazine alongside previous editions on the shmu website www.shmu.org.uk then click the ‘PRESS’ option.
Torry’s Vision is a community publication and the views expressed are not necessarily those of the editorial team or of shmu.
Happy Reading.
Hello from Balnagask Community Centre
s summer draws to an end, we’d like to share a bit about what we have done throughout the summer term. Kicking off with our Summer Playscheme. Our Summer Playscheme ran on a Monday, Wednesday and a Friday for the first three weeks of the summer holidays. Each week having different craft activities, outdoor activities and of course most importantly a different trip every Friday, whilst attending the children were provided with breakfast, snacks and lunch. We had Natalie from Active Schools
Aberdeen come in and do some sports with the children (and volunteers) and Childsmile came in too to teach us the importance of brushing our teeth.
Our trips took us to Brechin Castle Centre, Craigtoun Park and Blair Drummond Safari Park. Of course all of these made even more special for the children with the beautiful weather that came with them.
Following that we recently had our residential trip which saw 12 volunteers and 32 children head
to Craig Tara for the September weekend. Children partied the nights away while also seeing what prizes could be won at the two pence machines and with tokens that were being accumulated over the threenight stay. We visited the beach, built teddies, went on trampolines and of course everyone’s favourite swimming. The volunteers even held little pamper sessions to allow the children to have a relaxing time. We can’t wait to do it all again next year.
Torry Community Biodiversity Event Reveals 175 species in St Fittick’s Park!
OnSaturday, 14 August 2025 St Fittick’s Park Torry we held our first Bioblitz! The Friends of Saint Fittick’s Park are celebrating the success of the event. What is a BioBlitz? It is an important and fun activity bringing wildlife experts and the community together to find and identify in the area as many species as possible in a limited time scale. The event drew significant public interest and highlighted the park’s vital role in local biodiversity and human well-being. We brought together 86 community members and scientists to record the park’s diverse plant and animal life.
The day-long event focused on recording as many species as possible, yielded an impressive total of 232 records and 175 different species identified so far. The list includes:
Invertebrates: 49
Wildflowers & Herbs: 47
Birds: 34
Grasses and Grass-like: 22
Trees and woody shrubs: 19
Mammals: 4
The findings underscore the ecological importance of Saint Fittick’s Park as an urban green space —especially amid a biodiversity loss crisis—which provides a home for a wide number of plants and animals, including red list species. Birds on the current RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) Red List seen
include the Redpoll, House Martin, Kittiwake, Starling and Swift.
Biodiversity Coordinator Abbie Ferrar from the North East Scotland Biodiversity Partnership (NESBiP), who helped organise the event, emphasised the importance of these findings. “This bioblitz shows just how important urban green spaces are for biodiversity, and people. Even a small area, like a park, can make a massive difference in helping our struggling biodiversity” Ferrar said.
The event, one of a series of community events planned by the Friends of Saint Fittick’s Park, aims to draw attention to the park’s value amidst a proposal for industrial development. Friends of St Fittick’s Park continue fighting to save the park and hopes that these events will demonstrate its importance as a natural asset for the community and local wildlife.
A huge thank you to everyone who participated, including the scientists and volunteers who helped make the day a success. All enjoyed it and refreshments were available throughout to fuel our enthusiastic helpers!
About Friends of Saint Fittick’s Park: The Friends of Saint Fittick’s Park is a community group dedicated to protecting and celebrating Saint Fittick’s Park in Aberdeen, UK.
Friends of St Fittick’s Park E: friendsofstfittickspark@ proton.me
Tullos Community Garden
Aweeupdate, and a plea for help from any tech/Facebook savvy people!
There’s been alot happening in the garden in recent months, our volunteers have been doing a fantastic job of widening all of the pathways around the garden, this makes it so much easier to walk round and it looks so much better too!
The HOPE team continue to come weekly and thanks to them we finally have fully functioning compost boxes, with the compost now being used in our planters.
I, and hopefully any friends of Sylvia’s who visit, were delighted to see all of her roses in full bloom throughout summer, both the ones planted by us and the White Cockade in her memory, and Sylvia’s own roses from her garden, they all looked beautiful, and are a lovely tribute to her.
Sadly, we haven’t been able to keep everyone updated via our Facebook page as we usually do. It has completely disappeared, unexplainably. Our page has seven years worth of memories, and many loyal followers, it shows the Gardens story from the beginning - PLEASE DOES ANYONE KNOW HOW WE WOULD GO ABOUT RECOVERING IT? We would be so very grateful if anyone could help with this.
Thanks for reading!
Catrina
GARDEN GROUP GLENBERVIE RD
In 2023, a corner of ground, on the side of Glenbervie Road/ Mansfield Rd, was ripped out as part of the new Aberdeen City Council gas project. These bushes and shrubs were planted by the Stewart family fifty years earlier. The family moved into a new building at Glenbervie Road, in 1938, with their newborn daughter Doreen Stewart and their older sibling. History of the area tells us that tenants were given sections of ground to use for their own needs. During the war many of the tenants grew potatoes, and other vegetables. The side area was used by the Stewart family, due to the way the wind whipped through this corner, bushes with thicket branches were planted. It was a sad day when it was all ripped out for the pipe laying. Once the pipes were laid and the earth restored it was barren. Tenants Suzy Reid and Doreen Stewart already had a small garden at the front area and a fruit tree growing in ashes of Suzy’s pug Buddy. The initial idea was to fill the ground with bushes similar to the original tenants. However, it was a great opportunity to support wildlife by planting herbs and wild flowers.
Doreen Stewart, now in her eighties, volunteered for over thirty years to conserve. Her experience working with Greenspace, Natural Scottish heritage and other groups meant she had other friends that enjoyed a project. Alistair and Gary joined later in 2023, and we worked on de-stoned and turning over the soil before any plants could be considered. The lads came weekly from March- October working hard on clearing heavy grasses and we had several bucket loads of boulders and stones. A cuppa and fine cake helped to keep them going.
The first wildflowers planted in March of 2024, flourished. It was an array of colour, spreading out over the area. That summer a variety of bees and butterflies were seen. Robin red bushes were planted around the edge to bring colour. The rubber leaves will, at maturity, give shelter and warmth to hedgehogs. We were donated trees by Torry community center, and these were planted in the open back area to replace five trees that we lost over the years. This will provide shelter and support some of our small bird species.
A variety of plants have been donated and all are now planted. They all flower at different times of the year, producing food for insects and shelter for small bird life. Sadly, we had to endure blocked and overflowing sewage from drains at the side of Mansfield Road. This happened November 2024 - Feb 2025 and caused contamination of the ground. It didn’t deter the group; they bought bags of fresh soil and compost to work into the ground and made sure they had protective gear on.
We have started in 2025 to plant vegetables and fruit. Our rhubarb is flourishing. Next year we hope to encourage more volunteers to join us. We have two raised planters and hope to grow more vegetables and potatoes next year. This will be made available to the local tenants living in the area. We noticed other tenants making a small garden area out the back of Glenbervie and hope it encourages others.
For more information on joining us for a cuppa and some gardening give Suzy a call 078746658629.
Aberdeen South Church of Scotland
UPCOMING EVENTS
Fund raising Coffee Morning, for Youth Organisations, Saturday 11th October from 10 am to 12 noon.
Coffee Mornings – last Saturday of the month – 25th October, 15th November (‘All Things Christmas’) 10 am – 12 noon
Saturday 22nd November –‘Christmas Messy Church’ 4-6 pm
Saturday 6th December 2 – 4 pm
Christmas Afternoon Tea (with some Christmas Fun)
OTHER WORSHIP GATHERINGS
Wednesdays 2-3 pm
Deeview Court, Kincorth
ZOOM Bible study –Thursdays 10.30–11.30 am
ZOOM Prayer meetingWednesdays 7.30-8.30 pm
SUNDAY SERVICES
Every Sunday – Walker Road, Torry - @ 11 am
Most Sundays – Kincorth Community Centre @ 10 am
CHURCH ACTIVITIES
Parents and Toddlers – Mondays – 9 – 11 am (term-time)
The Guild – every second Tuesday – 7.30 – 9 pm (23rd September onwards)
Indoor Bowling – Tuesdays – 1.45 to 3.45 pm (23rd September onwards)
Men’s Group – every second Thursday – 2 pm (26th September onwards)
Drama Groups – Friday evenings Kincorth Community Centre
46th Boys’ Brigade – Mondays (Anchors) 6-7 pm (Aug – end May) Fridays (Juniors/Section) –6.30 – 9 pm (Aug – beg June )
Aberdeen South Church, Walker Road, Torry, AB11 8DL
Tel : 01224 899183 Email : st.fitticks@btconnect.com www.aberdeensouthchurch.org
Office Hours – Mon, Wed, Thurs – 10 am to 12 noon
BIG NOISE TORRY
What’s going on!
We have been having a very busy time of it up at Big Noise Torry! At Greyhope School and Community Hub our kids After School Club is well underway and our Adult Orchestra
‘The Noise’, and Little Noise (music group sessions for children aged 0-4 years) continue to be very popular attracting lots of new community members. Beginners are always welcome and all instruments are provided, see below for days and times.
We are continuing our monthly visits to Balnagask House (Care Home) and have started an exciting new monthly ‘Music Café’ for the residents at Balnagask Assisted Living.
We have a fantastic new partnership with the Bridge Centre and recently launched our new ukulele band which went very well! Three more Big Sings are in the planning too, including a Festive Big Sing in December for all the family. The Big Sing is a fun, informal evening of singing popular songs of all varieties with a live band of Big Noise Torry staff; often compared to a giant karaoke with word sheets and live music! We all sing together so no need to feel shy, just come along and have a go, we had over 30 people at our last event!
Days and Times of regular sessions (ALL FREE):
Little Noise (0-4 years): Tuesdays 10:15-11:00, Greyhope Community Hub
The Noise (Adult Orchestra): Mondays 17:00-18:00, Greyhope Community Hub
NEW Ukulele Band: 11:15-12:00, 1st and 3rd Fridays of the month, The Bridge Centre
Doing a Souperb Job!
If you haven’t popped into Old Torry Community Centre’s Souperb session yet, clear your schedule and get yourself down there.
I popped my head into the kitchen to say hello and was met with a warm welcome by the volunteers, asked what kind of soup I’d like – there was a choice of three. Not only that but, would I like bread? What about a toastie?
The centre was filled with folk chatting away round tables while they enjoyed their soup – I went for a Sweetcorn soup; it was lovely and had a kick with some chilly flakes.
I find you can’t beat a soup with a bit of spice to it, especially as the weather if getting chillier now.
I had been told just to have a seat, and everything would be brought to me, what a treat.
I got chatting away and Jessica, a Lochside Academy pupil doing some volunteering at the centre waited on the tables, bringing out soup and toasties, making sure everyone was alright and enjoying their meal.
Jessica volunteers at Souperb through an initiative at Lochside. She had only been doing this for a few weeks when I spoke with her, but she
was doing a fantastic job, you’d think she’d been doing it all along.
Jessica shared, “At Souperb, I have been helping to make the toasties and serving the customers. I’ve been really enjoying meeting new people, and I’ve seen a few regular faces over the weeks I’ve been here.
“Over the course of the year, I want to build my confidence and my communication skills.” I’m sure there will be plenty of opportunity for that.
Jessica, along with the other pupils volunteering have completed food hygiene training, gaining certificates and getting hospitality qualifications, setting them up for lots of opportunities outside of school.
Kirsty McLeod, Lochside Academy’s PT for Quality Improvement and Community Engagement told me more about the scheme.
She said “We are trying to build strong links between the school and families but also the wider community. We’re building relationships in Torry, Cove, Kincorth to get our pupils volunteering.
“We’ve got a great partnership going with Old Torry Community Centre. We got involved in Souperb for the first time last year, and we had four pupils who attended regularly, and
they have come back this year. It was a big success. We are trying to get into other community centres based on that.
“The young people are getting on really well, it’s early days so we’ll keep an eye on them and see how their confidence grows. It’s nice for them to get out of their comfort zones, have a chat with people and by the end of the year they will have built good relationships with people in their communities.”
The young volunteers are a welcome hand for Old Torry Community Centre and greatly appreciated. As are the rest of the volunteers, helping to make Souperb as inviting as possible, whether they are making the soup, washing the dishes or keeping the tea and coffee on the go. Well done and thank you to all involved!
Make sure you get along to Souperb at least once. Even if soup is not for you, you can enjoy a toastie, a cuppa and a biscuit or even a warm bowl of rice pudding.
It runs every Monday from 11:30am to 12:45pm at Old Torry Community Centre on Abbey Road.
It’s free of charge and all are welcome.
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BRUCE GARDEN
Still
CONTACTS
blooming, still bonnie
– and still very much a community affair!
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Tucked away on the corner of Baxter Street and Victoria Road, Bruce Garden takes its name from Torry’s first postmaster, who once had his house on this very site. For years, it quietly bloomed under the loving care of Torry Loons John Main and Bill Esson. When John sadly passed, the garden was left to its own devices – with only the occasional mow from the council to keep it in check.
But this little green gem was too good to be forgotten.
@happygarden
+0123 456 7890
111, Maple Street, Country
In June 2018, Torry Community Group rallied together to give Bruce Garden a proper spruce-up. The sun shone, the weeds didn’t stand a chance, and a handful of willing volunteers kicked things off
www.happygarden.com
with a mighty first clear-up. Since then, what began as monthly Saturday meet-ups has grown into a weekly tradition – every Saturday morning, rain or shine (and yes, there has been rain), you’ll find the Bruce Garden crew out with trowels, banter, and biscuits.
BUILD YOUR GARDEN YOUR LOGO
We’ve added seating to encourage folk to sit, relax, and soak up the peace – and maybe even chat with a robin or two. It’s now not just a garden to look at, but one to linger in.
waved on your way past – you’ve made a difference.
10 DEC | 9 a.m.
As the current season draws to a close, we want to say a huge thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who’ve given their time, energy, plants, bulbs, stories, and occasionally their backs (gardening is not for the faint of spine). Whether you’ve come once, weekly, or just
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And there’s always room for more! Whether you’re a seasoned gardener, a total novice, or just someone who likes the idea of being outdoors with good company and the odd biscuit – we’d love to see you. No experience necessary. Just bring a smile (and maybe gloves). Watch for our Facebook adverts for more volunteers next year.
Bruce Garden is still evolving, still welcoming, and still blooming thanks to the community that loves it.
Elected Officials
Cllr Simon Watson
I’ve worked with the Torry Community RAAC group to support our residents and kept pushing to get their concerns addressed by the council administration. I have asked difficult questions, put down amendments, and helped call special council meetings to keep the pressure on. The steadfast determination of the people of Balnagask is inspiring, and we will keep fighting until we win.
I’ve had some contact with the Police over what enforcement is possible over the new 20mph speed limits. My interpretation is that they will need to see how it settles in before looking at anything around enforcement.
The temporary move of Ferryhill School to the old Walker Road School has gone smoothly overall. Some residents have been in touch and were concerned about road crossings and bus access. The plans
are for Walker Road to also be used for pupils from other schools when they are refurbished, so it may be busy for some years to come.
The proposed development of much of St Fitticks Park is obviously a huge issue, and there are lots of parts to this. The next development plan for Aberdeen is under consultation, and whilst this sounds incredibly boring, its very powerful and sets out which bits of land can be used for what purposes – for example housing, industrial use, or green space. Another issue is identifying who owns the land, so you know who to tell not to sell it off! I’ve got answers from the council about what is council land, and what is “Lands of Torry” land, which should be public knowledge.
The incinerator was shut down for several weeks, and I’ve sought assurances about health and safety
MSP Audrey Nicoll
Over the summer, I’ve continued my Local Business Spotlight initiative, meeting with several small business owners. While there is much to celebrate about their creativity and resilience, I also heard clear concerns about rising energy bills, increased National Insurance, and the continuing challenges caused by Brexit. Supporting local businesses is one of the best ways we can strengthen our community, I would encourage everyone to shop and spend locally wherever possible.
I know that access to GP services remains a worrying issue. Local practices are under significant pressure, with high demand and recruitment challenges meaning it
can be difficult for patients to get an appointment when needed. Don’t forget there are a range of services that you can access regarding your physical and mental health, including your local pharmacy, NHS24 on 111 for urgent care, NHS Inform, opticians and dentists.
I want to remind constituents of the Scottish Government’s Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, which provides vital support with energy costs over winter. You can find full details, including eligibility, at: www. socialsecurity.gov.scot.
A quick note on keeping yourself safe when using technology. It is vitally important we all understand
when it is shut and restarted. The excellent new Greyhope Hub library has also been closed occasionally due to staff shortages, and I’ve been in contact to make sure this doesn’t keep happening. I’ve contacted council officers to get communications working between them and Jesus House Torry who want to get the old youth centre up and running as a community facility again.
I try to come to (almost) all of the local Torry Community Council meetings. These are at the Greyhope Hub (3rd Wednesday of the month, 7-9pm) and I’m around from 6-7pm beforehand if you need any individual help. Or you can get me on simwatson@aberdeencity.gov.uk or 07944 484561.
Simon Watson Councillor for Torry and Ferryhill
the more we use technology to store our personal information, the more vulnerable we are to cyber criminals. I’ve been working both in the constituency and in the Parliament to raise awareness of this issue, particularly among young people and older residents who may be more at risk. Simple steps like updating passwords and being cautious with unexpected emails or calls can help keep us safe.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me if there’s an issue you’d like to raise. You can contact me at Audrey.Nicoll.MSP@Parliament. scot or call 01224 876743.
Cllr Christian Allard
Preparing for winter, you can order a one-tonne bag of salt as a group of local residents, as community groups.
In severe weather conditions some lower priority roads, streets and footpaths may not receive treatment for many days due to multiple treatments required on higher priority roads and pavements. Please note that the one-tonne community salt bags, like the salt provided in grit bins, are only for use on public areas. The cutoff date for applications is Monday the 27th October 2025.
The biggest issue in our community remains the Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC). All council tenants have now accepted an offer of alternative housing. Planning, preparation, engagement and mitigation works is ongoing in respect of demolition of the only Councilowned blocks affected by the issue.
All homeowners whose properties are affected by the Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete
(RAAC) issue have been offered options by Aberdeen City Council, including voluntary acquisition, property swap, and the offer of a council tenancy. In addition to the voluntary acquisition offer to homeowners, the Council is paying any professional fees reasonably incurred for property advice.
The Council also covers any reasonably incurred legal fees. In addition, homeowners are receiving a home loss payment equal to 10% of their current property’s market value. The Council also is meeting other reasonable costs, such as moving expenses and early mortgage surrender fees.
Lastly, temporary road restrictions to enable the replacement of an underground electricity cable in Aberdeen had been extended beyond the period they were initially due for completion and caused a lot of traffic issue for the ward of Torry and Ferryhill. The extension
MP STEPHEN FLYNN
Dear Readers,
We are all desperate to see jobs and opportunities for our young people, and to know that those who are a little bit further on in life also have the chance to retrain and do other things.
I was so pleased to see the Energy Transition Skills Hub open in Altens being opened by First Minister John Swinney.
The Hub is what the future looks like, government, the energy industry and our local college working together to make sure that courses and classes
are available to develop the hands-on skills of tomorrow.
I hope the Hub plays a part in the careers of many young people in Torry.
Meantime, back in London, my colleagues and I have been pushing the UK Government to scrap the two-child benefit cap.
Campaigners say the cap is the single-biggest driver of child poverty, punishing children just for being born, which is why the Scottish Government has already announced it will take action from March next
was given to Scottish and Southern Energy Networks after the discovery of asbestos during excavation works required for the Redmoss to Clayhills Underground Cable Replacement project. The asbestos has been safely removed.
Next road improvement is the Coast Road to better link the South Harbour with a new bridge over the railway next to the old one, with upgraded roads, and with re-aligned junctions for Coast Road and Hareness Road. Our roads network is in need of upgrading and improvement and we are responding to this need making sure that once this new link road is built, heavy good vehicles will have a new bridge avoiding going through Victoria Road.
Christian
Allard Elected Councillor for Torry and Ferryhill
Surgeries by appointment, please call 01224 346642 or email callard@ aberdeencity.gov.uk
year to mitigate against the policy’s damaging effects.
However, scrapping the policy entirely at UK level would free up funds to combat child poverty in other ways, which is why SNP MPs have put forward a bill calling for the cap to be scrapped.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with my office.
Best Wishes, Stephen stephen.flynn.mp@parliament.uk
Erica’s RAAC Story - Part 1
A council tenant perspective
Hello, my name is Erica, I am one of the council tenants that was affected by RAAC. I “flew the nest” from my parents in Kemnay, Aberdeenshire to Torry in December 2012. I am now rehomed in Linksfield/Seaton.
Torry has been an area that I had grown to like over my time there, so it is handy for buses and not too far for walking into town on a fine sunny day. As many of you know I quite enjoy my gardening and I spent a lot of time doing various things to make my garden look nice. Out with my home, I got to know quite a few people and found the community of Torry quite “close knit”. This is one of the many reasons why it was heartbreaking for me to move somewhere else.
Here are some of my experiences of dealing with this awful situation.
I remember back in November 2023, we got letters from Aberdeen City Council informing us that our homes were potentially unsafe due to a type of concrete called RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete), at that time I thought, ‘it’s not that big a deal’ and would be something that could be easily fixed without too much upheaval (how wrong was?)
In February 2024, we got another letter telling us that we would be having 1-21 visits from Council Housing Support Officers in March to discuss further options as to what would be happening going forward. Sometime after that someone from Northsound 1 came to my door saying they were covering the RAAC
situation, and would I like to give an interview to them? I agreed and I told them that I had no offer of a place so far and had been living in flat in Torry for over 10 years. I wasn’t quite sure what to make of it all at the time, I got asked if I had had any offers of other properties at that point, I said no, just letter informing us about 1-2-1 meetings from housing support officer.
In March I had a visit from a housing support officer telling me that all the council tenants would be having to get re-homed, my initial thoughts to this was ‘oh my god how am I supposed to get everything moved out of my current home to somewhere else?’, a very daunting feeling. With trying to process having to be re-homed, I felt quite anxious and stressed by the thought of having to move everything from one place to another. It was quite overwhelming really. I was asked by housing support officer if I had a housing application in, to which I said no as I had no intentions of moving in the first place.
I requested that I would like to be rehomed somewhere that is similar to what I had, eg a front door to myself and a bit of garden space as I quite enjoy gardening. They asked me if I would take a 4-in-ablock place and I said yes as long as it was something similar.
Ideally, I wanted to remain in Torry due to the fact that I had gotten to know the area over the years of living there and found the community friendly, I also suggested other areas such as Kincorth or anywhere else south of the city.
To be contined
TORRY MEDICAL PRACTICE
STAFFING
We are delighted to inform that the practice is fully staffed. We have GPs, Advanced Nurse practitioners (ANP), Practice nurses, Treatment Room nurses, Pharmacists and First Contact Physio. All are highly skilled at meeting the various care needs of our patient population. Our team consists of;
Doctors
Dr Adrian Crofton – Clinical Lead
Dr Claire Lindsay
Dr Maggie Ward
Dr Stuart McMain
Advanced Nurse Practitioners
Nicola Brownie
Carol Robertson
Amanda Begbie
Abbie Taylor
Claire Ellis (Trainee)
Practice Nurses
Lynsey Picksley
Lynn Christofferson
Treatment Room Nurses
Brenda Thomson
Sarah Dakin
Health Care Support Worker
Julie MacTavish
Pharmacists
Jen Brooks
Emma Atti
Hayley Crockett
Kay Watt
Pharmacy Technician
Ellie Park
First Contact Practitioner
Andrea Gencarelli
TRAINING PRACTICE
We are delighted to have secured
training status for student doctors and nurses. In addition we are also a training practice for qualified doctors who are embarking on their GP training. It is important to support the education of students and help develop the future workforce.
REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS
There are several ways in which you can request your repeat prescriptions; online via our website - Repeat Prescriptions - Torry Medical Practice. We encourage patients to use this service, as it is the safest and most efficient method for ordering repeat prescriptions. If you have not already signed up for this service, we encourage you to do so. You can sign up via the website, if you are unable to do so one of our reception team will be happy to support you to register.
If you do not wish to use the online service you can order your repeat prescriptions by handing in your repeat prescription order (on the right hand side of your prescription) to a member of the reception team. Alternatively you can post your request to the practice. Please do not hand in your repeat prescription request to the local pharmacies.
Alternatively you can call the repeat prescription telephone line on 01224 230 222, clearly stating your name, date of birth, address and the name of the medication(s) required. Please do not simply state all your medications as this can lead to errors and medication wastage.
Please remember we and your local pharmacy require four working
days notice from point of ordering to collecting your prescriptions due to the volume of requests received on a daily basis.
TELEPHONE CALLS
We know that some patients have been cut off whilst waiting in the telephone queue to speak to a receptionist. We recognise how frustrating this is, and we share that frustration, however, we would emphasise that we have no control over this, because the telephone exchange is managed by NHS Grampian. We have no direct control over the number of phone lines into the practice or when patients get cut off at busy periods. We would be grateful if you could be mindful of this, especially when speaking to our reception team.
ACCESS
In the last few years we have increased access to the practice and reduced the number of unused appointments. We endeavour to deal with patient queries on the day as far as possible. We are happy to deal with patients by phone or in person, although there may be situations where we will need to see you in person. Sometimes if we are fully booked we may ask you to call back in the next session. We keep a record of this, so that you should never be asked to call back more than twice before your query is dealt with. We also offer early morning appointments on two days each week which provides additional times for people to be seen out with working hours.
Challenge Poverty Week 2025
shmu took part in the national Challenge Poverty Week campaign again this October.
First launched by The Poverty Alliance in 2013, this week is all about shining a light on the injustice of poverty in Scotland - and showing that through justice, compassion, and collective action, we can create real, lasting solutions.
Challenge Poverty Week is your opportunity to raise your voice, stand in solidarity, and call for a just and equal Scotland for everyone.
Every year, hundreds of organisations take partfrom elected representatives and charities to local authorities, faith groups, businesses, schools, trade unions and more. shmu are proud to be one of these organisations.
Torry Community Podcast Course
Participants from the Torry Community Podcast course have dived right into the world of podcasting, creating fantastic episodes to delve into Torry’s rich history.
The first episode, they explore Torry’s social history and were delighted to interview Torry Memories and Heritage group’s Margaret and Fay to learn all about it.
They have also interviewed Torry Heritage group’s John Dunn to learn more about historical Torry.
We cannot wait to share the podcast with you, so make sure to keep an eye out on our social media and Connected Torry for it’s launch!
This year, each day had a corresponding theme. We heard voices from, Tilly Flat, Aberdeen Trade Union Council, Shelter Scotland, shmu and Friends of the Earth Scotland and touched on everything from Social security, fair work, warm homes, green travel and safe climate to investing in our communities and life’s essentials.
Don’t worry if you didn’t catch any of our coverage throughout the week! It is still available for you to have a listen!
Search shmu IN FOCUS on Spotify, shmuTV on YouTube or find our Mixcloud page, SHMUFM.
Check out our social media pages to see some fantastic short films too!
Together, we can challenge poverty.
shmuFM’s 18th birthday
Aberdeen’s Award-winning community Radio Station celebrated its 18th birthday on Monday the 20th of October.
Since its first broadcast in 2007, shmuFM has been at the heart of community media in the city, giving a platform to local voices, stories, and music that often go unheard.
shmu volunteers will took on 18 hours of non stop live broadcast on Monday to mark the occasion, interviewing a range of shmu participants and staff from past and present.
Last year shmuFM launched on a new community DAB platform, extending its reach across much of Aberdeen. shmu is now calling on other community broadcasters to join the DAB platform and help strengthen the city’s diverse radio landscape.
Murray Dawson, Founder and Chief Executive of shmu, said:
“Eighteen years ago, shmuFM began with the vision of giving local people a voice on the airwaves. Today, that vision has grown into a thriving community station, driven by volunteers and deeply connected to Aberdeen’s communities. Launching on DAB means even more people across the city can tune in, and we’re excited to welcome other community radio stations to share this platform with us.”
For many, shmuFM has been more than just a station –it’s been a place to learn skills, make friends, and find their voice.”
St Fittick’s Kitchen
Coming soon
Dates for the diary
LOOK OUT FOR THE FOLLOWING EVENTS: Please keep checking the new website for Torry - Connected Torry
St. Fittick’s Kitchen invites one and all to a hot, home-cooked, delicious lunch every Sunday at Tullos Community Centre. Everyone is warmly welcome, and we look forward to connecting with our Torry Community.
Come and get to know your community and create the support network you could like over a free nutritious meal. The kitchen is an initiative of St.Fittick’s Park Charity. Look out for more details. Email stfittickskitchen@proton.me for more information
Adult Cycling Sessions
Join the Community Cycling team every Friday morning for a cycling session starting from the Cruyff Court in St Fittick’s Park. Meet at 10am and stay for up to two hours. Bikes, cycling equipment and refreshments can be provided free of charge.
To book a space please visit Eventbrite. If you have any questions please email: hbeaumont@sportaberdeen.co.uk
The Bridge Coffee Shop
Coffee shop open from Wednesday to Friday between 10a.m and 2.30pm. We close the kitchen at 2pm to clean down but you can still enjoy a coffee and a fine piece until 2.30!
We sell homemade fresh soups daily as well as sandwiches, toasties, paninis and wraps. A good selection of homemade fine pieces and a weekly special cheesecake too! If you have any questions please email: hbeaumont@sportaberdeen.co.uk
The Bridge Centre Soaring Seniors
A friendship group for anyone 55 years old and over, running 11 a.m to 1p.m. every Wednesday. Activities, friendship, laughter and free refreshments of tea/coffee and biscuits followed by a light lunch of soup and bread and a fine piece…… all FREE!
Aberdeen City Council Helpline - 0800 0304 713
ALCOHOL
Virtual School Helpline - 01224 523322
Alcoholics Anonymous - 0800 9177 650
ALCOHOL
Drinkline - 0300 123 1110
Alcoholics Anonymous - 0800 9177 650
Drinkline - 0300 123 1110
CRIME
Crimestoppers - 0800 555 111
CRIME
DRUGS
Crimestoppers - 0800 555 111
DRUGS
Alcohol and Drugs Action Helpline 01224 594700 or 07927192706
Narcotics Anonymous
0300 999 1212
Narcotics Anonymous
0300 999 1212
DENTIST Emergency - G-Dens - 111
DENTIST
DOCTORS
Emergency - G-Dens - 111
NHS 24 Emergency - 111
DOCTORS
POLICE
NHS 24 Emergency - 111
Non-Emergency - 101
POLICE
ELECTRICITY
Non-Emergency - 101
Alcohol and Drugs Action Helpline 01224 594700 or 07927192706
If you have a power-cut - 105
ELECTRICITY
GAS
If you have a power-cut - 105
Gas Emergency - 0800 111 999
GAS
WATER
Gas Emergency - 0800 111 999
Scottish Water Emergency - 0800 0778 778
WATER
SEPA Odour Reporting Hotline - 0800 80 70 60
Scottish Water Emergency - 0800 0778 778
HOUSING
(for reporting odours believed to be linked to Nigg Waste Water Treatment Works)
Emergency Repairs - 03000 200 292
HOUSING
Family Planning - 0345 337 9900
Emergency Repairs - 03000 200 292
Mental Health Aberdeen - 01224 573892
Family Planning - 0345 337 9900
Breathing Space - 0800 838 587
Breathing Space - 0800 838 587
Samaritans - Need to talk 01224 574 488 or 116 123
Samaritans - Need to talk 01224 574 488 or 116 123
SOCIAL WORK
SOCIAL WORK
Adult Protection - 0800 731 5520
Adult Protection - 0800 731 5520
Joint Child Protection Team 01224 306877 or 0800 731 5520
Joint Child Protection Team 01224 306877 or 0800 731 5520
Torry Medical Practice 8am – 6pm
Local Councillors
Contact: 0345 337 9977
Councillor Ciaran McRae 01224 346630
Community Contacts
YOUR LOCAL ELECTED OFFICIALS ARE:
Holburn Medical Practice 01224 400800
Local Councillors
cimcrae@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Councillor Gordon Graham 01224 523594 ggraham@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Councillor Jackie Dunbar 01224 522522
Councillor Lee Fairfull 01224 346652, lfairfull@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Councillor Christian Allard 01224 346642, callard@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Stephen Flynn MP 01224 213114, stephen.flynn.mp@parliament.uk
Sdelaney@aberdeencity.gov.uk
DOMESTIC ABUSE SUPPORT
DOMESTIC ABUSE SUPPORT
Domestic Abuse is not acceptable. It is not your fault and you are not alone. Domestic Abuse is when you are hurt, bullied or frightened by: Your husband or wife, your boyfriend or girlfriend, your current or ex-partner
Domestic Abuse is not acceptable. It is not your fault and you are not alone.Domestic Abuse is when you are hurt, bullied or frightened by: Your husband or wife, your boyfriend or girlfriend, your current or ex-partner
Help and support
Help and support
Police Scotland
Police Scotland
VSA Carers Support - 01224 358631
Age Scotland - 0800 1244 222
Their behaviour can be; controlling, physical, sexual, financial or emotional.
Their behaviour can be; controlling, physical, sexual, financial or emotional.
There are services available to support you, and they are still open. You do not have to wait for an emergency to get help. Tell someone you trust or contact:
There are services available to support you, and they are still open. You do not have to wait for an emergency to get help. Tell someone you trust or contact:
Aberdeen Carers Support Service01224 914036
CFINE 01224 596156
Age Scotland - 0800 1244 222
If you are in danger and it is an emergency, call 999. For non-emergencies call 101
If you are in danger and it is an emergency, call 999. For non-emergencies call 101
CFINE 01224 596156
National Domestic Abuse Helpline Free and confidential advice. Open to all. 24 hours a day. Telephone: 0800 027 1234. Website: sdafmh.org.uk
Financial Advice at CFINE 01224 531386
Grampian Women’s Aid
Pathways 01224 682 939
National Domestic Abuse Helpline Free and confidential advice. Open to all. 24 hours a day. Telephone: 0800 027 1234. Website: sdafmh.org.uk
