This Small Charity Week, an Edinburgh chaity has been announced as a finalist for a prestigious national award, recognised as the ‘Oscars’ of the small charity world.
Grassmarket Community Project, which supports those furthest from employment, has been nominated for a Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) Award.
The CSJ Awards seek out the top charities nationwide, highlighting those that excel in innovation and effectiveness in the fight against poverty. The diverse panel of judges includes David Gandy, BAFTA-Winning Actor Toby Jones, and past CSJ Award winners along with cross-sector experts that come together to select the winners.
The Awards celebrate the best of the small charity sector who are providing innovative policy solutions to address the root causes of poverty across the UK.
Grassmarket Community Project exists to support people facing multiple causes of poverty in Edinburgh. The charity offers a long-term, strengths-based community for approximately 450 people each year offering mainstream support to build relationships, develop skills, and create pathways to long-term change.
Helene van der Ploeg, CEO of Grassmarket Community Project, said: “We are delighted to be recognised as a finalist in the 2026 CSJ Awards. At Grassmarket Community Project, we are an open door to anyone experiencing social isolation and poverty in Edinburgh and beyond.
“We see every day the extraordinary potential that exists when our members are given the opportunity and support to thrive through our huge programme of activities and social enterprises. To be recognised by the Centre for Social Justice is a tribute to them, staff, our volunteers and supporters across Edinburgh.”
Chris Murray MP for Edinburgh East and Musselburgh, said: “‘It is fantastic to see the Grassmarket Community Project named as a finalist for the 2026 CSJ Awards. The Project is a true cornerstone of our community, providing vital space and services that support so many people.
“It stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose to make a positive difference.”
Andy Cook, CEO of the Centre for Social Justice, said: “While political uncertainty continues at home and global challenges mount, there’s an army of small charities in some of our most deprived communities across the UK quietly rolling up their sleeves and changing lives.
“The CSJ Awards are the Oscars of the small charity sector where we celebrate the very best of those unsung heroes who rarely get the recognition they deserve.
“Today we are proud to announce our twelve 2026 finalists. We will be revealing the winners at our CSJ Awards ceremony in the heart of Westminster this November.”