Tag: charities

Charities tackling hardship continue supporting Edinburgh

Female University Or College Student Having Individual Meeting With Tutor Or Counsellor

Charities continue to play an important role in supporting communities and creating opportunities for people in Edinburgh, according to new analysis of data from the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) by specialist insurer Ansvar Insurance.

The analysis found that Edinburgh is home to 200 registered charities focused on the prevention or relief of poverty, the advancement of citizenship or community development and the advancement of education.

Nine new charities working across these areas were registered in Edinburgh over the past 12 months.

The findings highlight the continued commitment of local people to supporting their community.

Adam Tier, Head of Underwriting at Ansvar, commented: “The fact that nine new charities have been established to tackle poverty and create opportunities demonstrates the commitment of local people to supporting those facing challenges.

“Charities are often founded because individuals recognise there is a gap in support and want to make a positive difference. Whether through employment support, skills development, community initiatives or direct assistance for those experiencing financial hardship, these organisations help people build better futures.”

As a specialist insurer working with charities and not-for-profit organisations, Ansvar regularly analyses sector trends to better understand the challenges and opportunities facing organisations that support communities across the UK.

While charities continue to face pressures including securing sustainable funding, attracting and retaining volunteers and managing increasing operational responsibilities, the findings also reveal an encouraging picture of people continuing to invest their time, energy and expertise in helping others.

Adam Tier added: “It’s encouraging to see people stepping forward to establish charities that help their local communities thrive. These figures highlight the positive impact local people can have when they support each other.

“While establishing a charity is only the first step, putting strong governance, volunteer management and risk management practices in place from the outset can help organisations build resilience and maximise their long-term impact.

“Community organisations play an essential role in helping people and places prosper, and it’s important they have the support they need to continue making a difference.”

New funding round opens for Edinburgh community mental health and wellbeing projects

Charities, community groups and not-for-profit organisations can apply for grants of up to £5,000 to strengthen mental health and wellbeing across Edinburgh

A new round of the Edinburgh Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund opens on Friday 18 September 2026, offering grants of up to £5,000 for community-led projects supporting adults’ mental health and wellbeing across the city.

The Fund is distributed by Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations’ Council (EVOC) on behalf of the Scottish Government. Applications will remain open until Wednesday 18 November 2026. After an assessment process, successful organisations will have one year in which to spend their award after payment in March 2027.

The Fund is designed to tackle mental health inequalities, reduce social isolation and loneliness, support suicide prevention, and respond to poverty and inequality. It has a strong focus on prevention, early intervention and community connection, particularly for people who face socio-economic disadvantage or are at greater risk of poor mental health.

The round is open to charitable and not-for-profit organisations, constituted and unconstituted community groups, and other eligible organisations providing services in Edinburgh with an annual turnover of £2 million or less.

Funding can support practical costs including equipment and materials, one-off events, hall and room hire, participation costs, staffing, training, transport, utilities, volunteer expenses and safety equipment. Capital costs of up to £5,000 may also be considered.

Previous grant holders have shown how small, locally rooted projects can create meaningful change. Across Edinburgh, funded activity has helped people move from isolation into friendship and community participation, supported parents and carers to recognise that their own mental health matters, and created accessible opportunities through art, physical activity, peer support and volunteering.

Bruce Crawford, EVOC’s CEO said: “Community organisations understand their neighbourhoods and the people they support. This Fund helps turn that knowledge into practical activity that can reduce isolation, build confidence and create stronger connections. Previous grant holders have shown that even a relatively small award can unlock lasting change.

“We want to hear from grassroots groups with a clear idea, strong local relationships and an understanding of how their work will contribute to the Fund’s aims. We particularly welcome applications that clearly describe the difference the project will make and how local people have helped shape it.”

EVOC will host an online information and question-and-answer webinar for prospective applicants. The session will explain the Fund, eligibility, priorities, and application process, with time for questions.

Organisations considering an application can book the webinar through Eventbrite.

Full guidance and the application form are available here. Applications open on Friday 18 September 2026 and close on Wednesday 18 November 2026.

Supporting Stronger Communities

Increased funding for community projects in Programme for Government

Grassroots projects will be able to bid for a share of £500,000 to help build stronger communities this year as part of plans set out in the Programme for Government.

The Community Cohesion Fund, launched last year to help local community initiatives to address shared challenges such as social isolation, the cost-of-living crisis, inclusion, employment and housing, will be increased from £300,000 to £500,000 in 2026-27.

On a visit to the Big Hearts Community Trust in Edinburgh, Equalities Minister Simita Kumar said: “The Programme for Government places a renewed focus on community cohesion, setting out practical actions to strengthen our collective response to shared challenges and build more resilient communities.

“Building on the success of last year’s launch in supporting the excellent work of local organisations like Big Hearts, we are increasing the Community Cohesion Fund to £500,000 this year. This will mean we can help even more grassroots initiatives that bring communities together, tackle division and promote inclusion.

“We will also establish a Ministerial Taskforce on Community Cohesion to identify priority areas for action and address emerging issues affecting communities.”

Craig Wilson, Chief Executive, Big Hearts Community Trust said: “The universal language of football allows us to bring together people from a wide range of backgrounds, and offer them opportunities to build positive connections in their local community. 

“We were pleased to receive support from the Scottish Government and the STV Appeal Community Cohesion Fund to strengthen accessibility and inclusion across our support services here in Edinburgh.

“This funding enables our charity to host more football-based activities as a neutral entry point of engagement for isolated adults and young people, and extend the support to their families. We are committed to make their local football ground a trusted and friendly space where they are welcomed, feel listened to and supported.”

The Fund sits alongside substantial funding which supports wider initiatives on areas such as advancing anti-racism, interfaith dialogue, integration, tackling social isolation and loneliness – helping to build connected, inclusive and resilient communities by fostering trust, belonging and support for people and communities across Scotland

Full details of the 2026-27 Fund including routes to apply will be published shortly.

Tomorrow: Volunteer Edinburgh Recruitment Fair 2026

On Tuesday 1 September, the Volunteer Edinburgh Recruitment Fair 2026 will bring together more than 60 charities, community groups and voluntary organisations under one roof. 

It’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in volunteering to come along, meet organisations, explore different opportunities and find out how they can get involved.

Event details

📅 Tuesday 1 September 2026
🕙 10am–5.30pm
📍 St Paul’s & St George’s Church, York Place, Edinburgh
🎟️ Free entry – no booking required

Do you know someone who might be interested in volunteering? 

A friend, family member, colleague, neighbour, student—or someone who has recently said they’d like to give something back, meet new people, learn new skills or simply find out what’s available? 

The more people who hear about the Recruitment Fair, the more opportunities there are to connect Edinburgh’s fantastic charities and community organisations with people ready to make a difference. 

For more information and the latest updates, visit edvolfair.org.uk.

Funding available for Maths Week Scotland activities

Apply for Maths Week Scotland Grant Funding by 5pm on Sunday 30 August!

Schools, nurseries, early learning & childcare providers, community & family providers & other educational settings can apply for £250 or £500 towards their #MWS2026 activities!

https://ow.ly/MKBW50Zztf3

Holyrood Palace invite for inspirational young charity ambassador 

A Young Ambassador with the charity Action for Children spent an afternoon in the presence of the King and Queen at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh this week.

Jack Nisbett, 20, from Haddington, East Lothian, attended a Royal Garden Party on Tuesday in recognition of his outstanding voluntary work.

Jack sits on Action for Children’s Young Ambassadors Board made up of volunteers aged between 14-25 from around the UK. 

The board gets involved in the charity’s work, and campaigns to influence decision-making to ensure it reflects the views of young people.

Jack has ADHD and autism and has been supported by an Action for Children housing support service for just under two years.

Action for Children representatives are nominated to attend Royal Garden Parties each year through its Patron the Princess of Wales.

Reflecting on the experience, Jack said: “I absolutely loved it. It was a brilliant day and I enjoyed every minute. I also got the chance to meet First Minister John Swinney.”

“I chose to become a Young Ambassador to help young people without a voice. I want to help make a change in the lives of other young people who go through similar situations to mine and make the world better for young people across the UK.”

Jack and Robert Inglis, Locality Services Manager at Action for Children, mingled with hundreds of guests at the garden party, which was also attended by the Duke of Edinburgh and the Princess Royal.

Robert has worked at Action for Children since 2003 and supported almost 500 young people experiencing homelessness during that time. 

Robert said: “Jack is an incredible young man who uses his personality and kindness to always try and improve the lives of others.

“He has so much to offer as a Young Ambassador, and recently travelled to Glasgow with young people from other voluntary organisations to write a letter to the Scottish Government outlining key priorities for young people that politicians should be addressing.”

Jack is one of around 30,000 children, young people and families supported each year by Action for Children in Scotland, through 90 services across 30 Scottish local authorities.

Action for Children, formerly known as National Children’s Homes (NCH), opened its first Scottish service in 1955 in Rutherglen, South Lanarkshire. Since then, it has expanded to offer residential homes, disability support, youth justice, and family support services across the country.  

Small changes could make big difference to Edinburgh charities

Edinburgh charities may be able to improve their financial resilience through smarter approaches to saving, despite ongoing pressure from rising costs and uncertain income streams, new research suggests. 

A survey found that many charities hold substantial cash reserves, yet almost half lack confidence in their long-term financial stability. The findings point to a disconnect between balances held and the role those funds play in supporting sustainable operations. 

While reserves remain a vital safety net, the research highlights an opportunity for charities to make their money work harder. By reviewing where cash is held and exploring more suitable savings options, charities could strengthen resilience without increasing risk or reducing accessibility. 

The survey by Redwood Bank, MoneyComms’ Best Charity Savings Provider 2026, found that 69 per cent of UK charities hold over £50,000 in savings, with almost half (46 per cent) holding more than £100,000. When current accounts are included, 84 per cent hold more than £50,000 and 68.5 per cent hold over £100,000. 

Despite these substantial balances, charities are under mounting pressure: 

  • 80 per cent reported rising day-to-day costs 
  • 73 per cent said they struggle to secure stable donations and funding 
  • 62 per cent have seen the value of donations decrease 
  • Almost half (49 per cent) lack confidence in their long-term financial stability 

One charity said: “We face increases in demand for our services at the same time as our donations are falling. That combination is unsustainable.” 

The research also shows that while 81 per cent of charities review their savings at least annually, many still do not seek alternatives that could improve returns. Fewer than half (44 per cent) do not hold a savings account with a second provider, choosing instead to keep their money in a current account, with over a third of these charities citing lack of awareness of the options available. 

The survey highlighted what matters most when choosing a savings account. Alongside competitive interest rates (85 per cent), charities value accessibility and withdrawal terms (72 per cent), bank reputation (60 per cent), digital ease (56 per cent) and ethical or social values (51 per cent). 

The findings have prompted the specialist Bank to draft its first Redwood Research Report, How smarter saving can strengthen the UK charity sector, which sets out practical steps to help organisations make their reserves work harder. 

Jessica Darrah, Senior Savings Product Manager at Redwood, said: “Charities are working tirelessly to support communities but are often doing so under financial strain and with limited options.

“Our research shows that while many have substantial reserves, these funds are not always working as hard as they could or should be. When every pound matters, smarter saving strategies could make a real difference to financial resilience. 

“As a specialist business bank, we can provide personal service with consistently competitive savings rates. The Bank has been recognised as the Best Business Variable Rate Deposit Account Provider at the Moneyfacts Awards for seven consecutive years, reflecting our commitment to delivering value and clarity for customers. 

“Unlike traditional high street banks, we can focus on understanding the specific needs of charities and smaller organisations. Our dedicated savings products and knowledgeable team aim to make saving simpler, more transparent and better suited to the realities of the sector.” 

The Redwood Research Report can be downloaded here:

 https://redwoodbank.co.uk/savings/charity-savings-accounts 

More charities closed than opened in Edinburgh in 2025

THIRD SECTOR FACES GROWING PRESSURE

Charities across Edinburgh entered the new year facing a complex operating environment, as Scottish Charity Register data reveals more organisations were removed from the register last year than were newly established.

According to the register, 101 charities were registered in Edinburgh during 2025, while 122 were removed from the register.

Removal from the register can include mergers or charities completing their purpose, but the figures highlight the ongoing pressures within the voluntary sector as organisations adapt to rising costs, regulatory demands and changing funding patterns.

This local picture mirrors UK trends. The Status of UK Fundraising 2025 report found that 54% of UK charities saw their fundraising income remain static or fall over the past year, with a substantial majority attributing this to wider economic conditions. While income is not universally declining, many organisations are having to work harder to maintain stability.

Ansvar Insurance, a specialist insurer for charities and not‑for‑profit organisations, says the challenge is less about short-term survival and more about long-term sustainability.

Photo of a group of friends studying together at home

Adam Tier, Head of Underwriting at Ansvar, commented: “Edinburgh has always had an incredibly active charity sector, but these figures show just how challenging the current environment has become.

“Rising operational costs, a more competitive fundraising landscape and increased demand with an average of 27% of Edinburgh residents relying on charitable services mean organisations need to think differently about sustainability.”

To help local organisations strengthen their resilience, Ansvar is encouraging charities to explore less obvious strategies that can make a meaningful difference:

  1. Build practical partnerships: Formal partnerships with organisations serving similar beneficiaries can reduce overheads through shared back-office functions, joint fundraising and collaborative grant bids, while strengthening funding applications.
  2. Focus on long-term supporter relationships: Nurturing existing supporters through regular updates and consistent storytelling can help convert into monthly giving, providing greater stability than one-off donations.
  3. Review insurance and risk exposure: A risk assessment can highlight duplicated cover or gaps in protection. As services evolve, charities should ensure their insurance reflects current activities to avoid unnecessary costs or unexpected exposures.

Despite the pressures, the registration of new charities in Edinburgh during 2025 demonstrates the commitment of local communities to addressing social need.

Adam Tier added: “Financial sustainability isn’t just about raising more money. Often, it’s about taking a fresh look at existing processes and asking the right questions.

“The organisations that thrive are those that plan ahead, understand their risks and adapt early, positioning themselves to weather these challenges and continue serving their communities for years to come.”

https://www.cafonline.org/insights/research/uk-local-giving-report-2025#interMap

SCVO: New research finds funding delays emerge as major challenge for Scottish charities

Organisations call for reliable, multi-year funding to avoid increased annual pressures

Charities in Scotland are increasingly struggling with funding delays, with organisations facing cash‑flow pressures, postponed or cancelled services, and depleted reserves.  

The latest findings from the Scottish third sector tracker reveals a sector that continues to show resilience and adaptability, but one that is increasingly stretched across multiple fronts. 

The Scottish Council for Organisations (SCVO) have now said calls for multi-year funding for the sector in line with inflation is absolutely essential.  

The research, carried out for SCVO and partners, found over a quarter (28%) of organisations now cite delays or reductions in funding as a top challenge. 

As a result, charities say these hold-ups in funding force organisations to draw on reserves as well as creating immediate cash‑flow pressures and forcing services to be postponed or cancelled.  

The tracker found 58% of organisations hold less than six months’ reserves – up five per cent from Spring 2025 – and 57% say their current use of reserves is unsustainable, a sharp increase from 40% in Autumn 2024 

Delays create immediate cash‑flow pressures (for around 60% to 65% of those organisations), force organisations to draw on reserves (45% to 50%), and lead to postponed or cancelled services (35% to 40%). (1)  

Critically, funding delays also have a profound impact on staff morale, wellbeing, and retention.  

Uncertainty around contract renewals, the risk of redundancy, and the inability to plan long‑term contribute to anxiety, frustration, and the loss of experienced staff are all exacerbating existing problems.  

Overall, the findings show a sector committed to delivering for communities but increasingly constrained by financial instability, workforce shortages, and systemic uncertainty.  

Steve Grozier, Research Officer at SCVO, said: “This latest wave of Scottish third sector tracker reveals a sector that continues to show resilience and adaptability, but one that is increasingly stretched across multiple fronts.

“Service delivery remains broadly stable, yet over half of organisations report that limitations in resources, skills, or capacity are hindering their ability to meet demand.

“Financial pressures have intensified. Staff recruitment and retention remain difficult for many organisations. Volunteer recruitment and retention challenges remain acute. Funding delays have now also emerged as a major challenge. The work being done by organisations across the sector in the midst of these issues is commendable.” 

Responding to the tracker survey, organisations consistently emphasise that secure, multi‑year, inflation‑linked funding — particularly for core costs and staff salaries — is the single most important factor that would enable them to do more.  

Without structural changes to public sector funding models, investment in workforce capacity, and improved partnership working, organisations risk being unable to meet rising demand or sustain essential services. 

The calls come ahead of a hustings of candidates for the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary elections at SCVO’s flagship event, The Gathering, on Tuesday, 10 February.  

SCVO have published their manifesto, Scotland’s Essential Sector, outlining the need for the next Scottish Government to deliver Fair Funding, with the need to reform the public sector funding landscape for voluntary organisations more pressing than ever. 

Anna Fowlie, SCVO Chief Executive, added: “Scotland’s charities, community organisations and social enterprises are a fundamental cornerstone of our society and economy.

“This research shows a growing fragility which is detrimental to us all. It’s time to give these organisations, and the people they serve, the respect and stability that they need.  

“The next Scottish Government needs to implement Fair Funding as a matter of urgency.” 

Inspiring Scotland: Seven campaigns receive funding to drive social change 

Seven organisations have been selected to receive funding for campaigning projects aimed at improving the lives of people in Scotland.  

Covering a wide range of issues from access to health checks for disabled people to helping older people connect with their communities, these projects will lay the essential groundwork and build momentum for larger campaigns.  

Celia Tennant, Chief Executive of Inspiring Scotland, said: “Achieving long term, systemic change requires sustained effort and commitment. And while there is no shortage of people with the required passion and good ideas, funding for the crucial early stages of social justice campaigns is often limited. 

“Our goal was to support those with a clear vision, deep knowledge of the issues, and confidence in building larger campaigns, but requiring resources to explore ideas, gather evidence, and test approaches for maximum impact.” 

For this funding call, we partnered with Changing Ideas, an organisation with a strong track record of supporting campaigners to tackle social injustices in the UK and worldwide, and we’re excited to bring their experience and investment to Scotland. 

David Graham, founder of Changing Ideas, said: “We are delighted to fund charities and groups working for change across the environment, childcare, women’s and girls’ rights, and more.

“We see this as the first step in building momentum for wider systemic change, and we are excited by what our partners will go on to achieve.” 

Although this call focused on supporting a small number of projects, we were overwhelmed by nearly 100 applications, clearly demonstrating the strong appetite for campaigning in Scotland. 

We wish all those who weren’t selected best of luck in their efforts. 

After careful consideration and interviews with shortlisted applicants, the following seven projects were selected for funding: 

  1. Children First: £10,000 to progress their campaign against online harm to children and young people.  
  2. Coastal Communities Network: £10,000 to campaign for better access to information on water quality, increased centralised water testing, and improved access to community water testing equipment.  
  3. Enable Scotland: £9,928 to support people with learning disabilities in leading local and national campaigns to improve access to regular health checks.  
  4. Vintage Vibes: £10,000 to campaign against isolation, declining confidence and stigma surrounding ageing, and help older people feel valued and sure of their place in their community.  
  5. YWCA Young Women in Scotland: £9,983 to run a Scotland-specific campaign addressing digital violence against women and girls (VAWG), led by young women themselves.  
  6. The Motherhood Plan – Pregnant then Screwed: £10,000 to undertake the groundwork for a large Scotland-wide campaign that secures bold, credible childcare commitments from MSPs and holds the next Scottish Government to account.   
  7. Parenting Across Scotland: £8,600 to co-ordinate a campaign group with other children and families organisations to campaign for a Scottish hobby model to address the current inequity in hobby provision in Scotland.

Amy Woodhouse from Parenting Across Scotland explains how the funding is going to help the organisation realise their ambition for all children and young people in Scotland to have access to a hobby of their choice: “Hobbies are brilliant for so many reasons – they help children develop new skills, make friends and boost confidence.

“They can provide solace when times are tough and offer positive spaces for children to grow and develop. They should be a part of every childhood, but sadly they’re not. Cost, accessibility, lack of choice, transport difficulties and long waiting lists all prevent children from taking part. 

“The solutions are possible, but we need a co-ordinated national approach to really make progress. Support from the Ideas for Change fund will help us to build momentum behind our hobbies campaign and ensure that all children and young people, regardless of their circumstances, can benefit.

“We are very grateful to Inspiring Scotland and Changing Ideas for this award.”

A spokesperson for Vintage Vibes said: “We are delighted to be selected by Inspiring Scotland as one of seven fantastic organisations to run a campaign to improve the lives of Scottish people in 2026.

“Our campaign will launch later this year, building on our highly acclaimed Ten Years Bold campaign, and will aim to spread empowerment in older people across Scotland, tackling ageism and challenging stigmas. We can’t wait to start!”

Inspiring Scotland are proud to partner with Changing Ideas and the seven funded organisations, and look forward to supporting their efforts and sharing updates as their campaigns progress.