Celebrating 30 Years of 6VT: A Legacy of Changing Lives

For three decades, 6VT Edinburgh City Youth Café has been a safe haven for children, young people, and families across Edinburgh. Thanks to the generous support of St Giles’, we’ve been able to continue our vital work, helping tens of thousands of individuals over the years

What about the impact?

For many, we may never fully know the difference we’ve made But every so often, someone reaches out to share their story how 6VT shaped their journey and changed their life

One such person is Hanif, who recently walked through our doors after 12 years. Hanif arrived in Edinburgh as a refugee from Iran, and we supported him through his early years in a new country Now, he has returned to tell his story You can hear his powerful testimony by clicking this link: https://youtu be/yo0HixJ8QLI

To mark our 30th Anniversary, we invited former service users to share their experiences Here are just a few of their inspiring stories:

Josh recalls arriving at 6VT as an "angry young boy" but leaving as a “better person.” He found friendship, learned breakdancing, and developed life skills that helped him build a successful future Today, he is an Operations Executive for a major car manufacturer in the UK and Europe.

Ruby sent a heartfelt email to say thank you After being expelled from school, it was 6VT staff who helped her prepare for her Standard Grades which she passed! Later, when she was homeless, we supported her again She wanted to let us know that she is now in her final year of Medical School.

Many others describe 6VT as their safe place, the support system that helped them through tough beginnings, secured their first home, found them employment, or opened doors to opportunities they never imagined

The one theme that runs through every story? 6VT was like a family a place of belonging, care, and support. Now, we see multiple generations returning, wanting their children to experience the same positive impact The ripple effect is immeasurable; by changing one life, we influence an entire family’s future

We extend our deepest gratitude to St Giles’ for being part of this journey your support has helped transform lives in ways that cannot be quantified

Here’s to 30 years of making a difference and many more to come

Dot Horne, Executive Director

Christian Aid Week

Christian Aid Week this year runs from Sunday 11th to Saturday 18th May The week is billed as 'seven days to make a difference' This year the campaign is highlighting supporting women in Guatemala, providing training and equipment to help them farm efficiently and support their families and communities, but Christian Aid supports all sorts of projects across many different countries and parts of the world St Giles' members and visitors will be able to make donations by way of the usual 'red' Christian Aid envelopes on Sunday 11th or by using a QR code which will be made available in the weekly bulletin and the intimations on the Orders of Service for that date. Please give to this worthwhile cause as you are able, and remember that if you are a UK taxpayer, Christian Aid can reclaim the tax on your donation, if you complete the gift aid form