EMPTY Kitchens Full Hearts wonderful Engagement Manager Leila is taking on this abseil challenge
If you visit EKFH, you’ll see Leila hard at work with our Engagement volunteers, making more than 60 wellbeing calls every week!
Leila speaks to our service users regularly – checking in to see how they are doing, and what more we can do to support them. This could be linking a family to a local clothing bank, putting a person in touch with an benefits check service, or issuing a foodbank voucher for household essentials.
Now, Leila is taking on the Port of Leith Distillery Abseil Challenge – 131ft for EKFH
Edinburgh ranked as one of the hotspots for charity fundraising in 2026
Edinburgh has been named as one of the UK’s biggest hotspots for fundraising, according to data from JustGiving.
In the first three months of 2026, Edinburgh came in at number six in the list of places with the most individuals undertaking fundraising challenges for good causes*, up four places from the end of 2025.
Manchester tops the list, holding steady from last quarter, with Glasgow in 2nd place and Bristol in 3rd, with Nottingham and Newcastle completing the top five.
The list has been compiled by JustGiving, the UK’s largest fundraising platform for charitable giving, to mark the launch of the 2026 JustGiving Awards, which looks to celebrate remarkable people up and down the country raising money for causes close to their hearts.
Edinburgh is a city of runners according to the data, with running and marathons proving the most popular vehicles for fundraising in 2026 so far, with causes like MND care, cancer care and poverty relief driving the most donations among locals.
The 2026 JustGiving Awards are now open for nominations, with members of the public invited to put forward inspiring fundraisers from across the UK. The awards celebrate remarkable individuals, families and groups who have gone above and beyond to raise money for a charity or personal cause over the past 18 months.
Finalists will be shortlisted before going forward to a public vote later this year. The awards aim to shine a spotlight on the stories of generosity, determination and community spirit that continue to inspire people across the country.
Michael and Andrew Cole were finalists in the 2025 JustGiving Awards Stronger Together category. Andrew pushed his 73-year-old father, Michael, who is living with MND, around the 2025 Edinburgh Marathon in a specially adapted wheelchair, raising over £5,800 for MND Scotland.
Pascale Harvie, President and General Manager of JustGiving, said: “Every year, the JustGiving Awards gives us the opportunity to celebrate some of the most inspiring fundraisers in communities like Edinburgh.
“With more than one million fundraising pages created on JustGiving last year, there is no shortage of incredible individuals, families, groups, and even pets, going above and beyond for the causes closest to their hearts.
“Last year, the public submitted 18,000 nominations, shining an important light on the fundraisers whose generosity, determination and impact continue to inspire people across the world. We cannot wait to see who they put forward this year.”
Nominations will be open for just over three weeks, closing on 10 May. To nominate a JustGiving fundraiser who has inspired you, click here. To find out more about last year’s inspiring award winners, click here.
Top ten fundraising hotspots – Quarter 1, 2026 (change from previous quarter in brackets)*:
1. Manchester (non-mover)
2. Glasgow (Up 2)
3. Bristol (Down 1)
4. Nottingham (Down 1)
5. Newcastle (Up 1)
6. Edinburgh (Up 4)
7. Leeds (Down 2)
8. Sheffield (Up 4)
9. London (Down 2)
10. Plymouth (Up 3)
*based on number of fundraising pages created on the JustGiving platform between 1 January – 31 March 2026, weighted by population according to ONS data
The Big Match features two men’s teams (Residential United v Commercial City) made up of football enthusiasts (of varying levels of skill and fitness!) from Edinburgh’s property and legal spheres.
They will be joined by local celebrity chef Tom Kitchin, ex-Hearts and Premier league player Christophe Berra, and ex-Hibs player and former pupil of Broughton High, Darren Dods.
The Big Match aims to raise a game-changing amount of money for local charities and this year we’re delighted they’ve chosen Spartans Community Foundation as their beneficiaries, so we’re keen to spread the word!
This is the fourth year of The Big Match. It’s free to spectators and the atmosphere is always brilliant, with vocal crowds!
The game is always hard fought – the referee will have a tough job harnessing the levels of competitive spirit on the pitch tomorrow!
A nine-year-old girl from Edinburgh who decided to run the Edinburgh Marathon Festival junior 2K in support of her dad while he was awaiting a liver transplant, is celebrating as he has now received his life-saving transplant and she has smashed her fundraising target with two months to go!
Jessica Elliot’s dad, Calum, was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis when he was 12. His condition was controlled with medication, and it didn’t stop him pursuing a career in professional football.
It was last year, while he was manager of League Two’s Bonnyrigg Rose, that he began to develop other symptoms such as jaundice and extreme fatigue and at his wife, Lindsay’s insistence, he consulted his doctor and was referred for tests.
These revealed that he now also had another rare liver condition, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and within months he was on the waiting list for a liver transplant.
“This came as a huge shock,” says Lindsay. “This was a fit man who had spent his whole life in sport. Being listed for an organ transplant at the age of 38 was not something which had ever crossed our minds.
“We had to let the children, Jessica nine, Olivia eight and seven-year-old Calum Jr, know why daddy was spending so much time in hospital without worrying them, so we explained that his liver was making him poorly and he needed a new one. It was Jessica’s idea to do the Edinburgh 2K in support of her dad. She’d done it last year and really enjoyed it, so she said she wanted to do it again but ‘for livers this time!’
“At the time, we were getting a lot of useful information from the British Liver Trust, both regarding Calum’s condition and his forthcoming transplant, so raising money for the charity sounded like a brilliant idea.
“The last few months have been a real rollercoaster. We had three calls to tell us that a donor liver had been found for Calum, but when we got to hospital, for various reasons the surgery could not go ahead. Finally in January, we got the call we’d been waiting for. The transplant took place and after some initial rejection, it looks like it has been a success, so life is slowly returning to normal. We will forever be grateful to that family who made such a generous decision at such a difficult time.
“It’s great knowing that Jessica’s fundraising will help other families who find themselves in this situation. She was initially so nervous that she wasn’t going to meet her £500 target, but she doubled it in her first day. Now we’re up to £1280 and it’s still climbing! She’s so proud and excited, she can’t wait for the race now.
“And having seen the transformation in her daddy over the past few weeks, she tells us she wants to be a liver surgeon when she’s older, so watch this space!”
Dan Painter, Public Fundraising Manager at British Liver Trust, commented: “As a charity, we are leading the fight against liver disease and liver cancer. We reach over two million people each year; providing information and support to patients and families and providing vital advice to help people improve their liver health.
“But there is still so much to be done. Liver disease is the only major disease in the UK where death rates are rising, and we want to change that. Jessica is an absolute star for taking on the Edinburgh 2K and raising such a fantastic amount.
“We’re so grateful to her and we hope that she had her family really enjoy the day!”
Fortunately, most of us don’t have to climb a hill to brush our teeth in the morning. But that’s exactly what Bishop Brian McGee did to raise awareness of communities around the world in need of clean water.
Bishop Brian is SCIAF’s Bishop President and cares deeply about poverty and injustice around the world.
Bishop Brian said: “What can be more unjust that not being able to access clean, safe water?
“This year our WEE BOX Appeal focusses on just that. In Scotland, we are blessed with some of the finest water in the world. We bathe in it, use it for cooking, and drink as much as we want, whenever we want. We take it for granted that it will always be there.
“Water is life. But for many, it’s dangerously scarce. In Ethiopia far too many women, girls and boys still have to walk for hours every day under the scorching sun. This means missed days at school, getting sick from dirty water, and in some places taking their lives in their hands just to reach water.
“Getting that big sink up the hill was a struggle. It weighed a tonne and it was blowing a hooley, but I just did it once. It’s nothing compared to the daily struggle many have to access clean water.
“Thanks to the generosity of people across Scotland, SCIAF has been funding local organisations in Ethiopia to bring clean water to communities and help people help themselves out of poverty. And we need their help again to continue to do this.”
Lent is 40 days of reflection, fasting, and prayer leading up to Easter. Each year generous Scots up and down the country give up a favourite treat such as coffee, chocolate, wine or crisps during Lent and put the money they save into a SCIAF WEE BOX.
Supporters also hold fundraising events in their schools and parishes and take on personal challenges to raise money. They then donate whatever they raise at Easter to provide a hand-up to vulnerable communities worldwide, struggling to survive due to hunger, poverty, conflict and the climate emergency.
Bishop Brian added: “I have had the privilege of seeing first-hand the transformational work that our amazing SCIAF supporters are funding in Ethiopia. It is genuinely changing lives.
“Bringing clean water closer to people’s homes helps kids get to school and improves the health of the whole family. It’s amazing the difference basic things like taps and wells can make for people’s lives.
“We know that there are still so many more people suffering in Ethiopia and across the world from extreme poverty. With support like this, we can reach more families and more communities and give them a hand up out of the challenges they face.”
This Lent, please use your WEE BOX to make a BIG CHANGE. Your support can show young people around the world that a better world is possible – one where they can survive, thrive and flourish.
Forth 1 radio presenter, Amber Zoe, donned yellow to mark the 40th anniversary of Scotland’s leading end of life charity’s flagship fundraiser, the Great Daffodil Appeal.
The Appeal encourages everyone to wear a daffodil pin and donate to Marie Curie throughout the month of March. The fundraiser raises much needed funds so that Marie Curie Nurses and healthcare assistants can provide expert end of life support and care in homes and hospices across the country.
Locals are encouraged to get involved by hosting their own ‘Go Yellow’ fundraiser, whether that’s getting together with friends, family and colleagues to bake a yellow treat, wear yellow, or choose their own yellow activity. To make hosting a fundraiser as easy as possible, Marie Curie will provide everything needed – from step-by-step guides to cake flags, recipes, yellow-themed selfie props and more.
Marie Curie is dependent on public donations. Money raised also funds the charity’s free national support line and webchat – available to anyone with an illness they’re likely to die from and those close to them.
It offers practical and emotional support on everything from managing symptoms and navigating care to financial information, including how to get help with energy bills, and bereavement support.
Amber, whose gran was cared for by Marie Curie, said: “I have witnessed first-hand the exceptional care and support given to my lovely gran when she was cared for at the Marie Curie Hospice, Glasgow.
“Knowing that she was being so well looked after at the end of her life meant the world to us, and when we were with her, we could simply be there as her family, holding her hand and talking to her.
“Being with her on her final journey enabled us to have those precious moments with her, and that is something that we are all so grateful for.
“This year, Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal reaches its 40th anniversary, which is such a milestone. If anyone would like to support this year by going yellow – either having a bake sale, wearing something yellow or choosing your own activity – you’re helping make sure people and their loved ones get the care and support they need at end of life.”
Ashley Thomson, Head of Community Fundraising, Marie Curie Scotland, said: “This year is the 40th anniversary of the Great Daffodil Appeal and we’re hoping to turn the whole of the country yellow to celebrate! We’re looking for people to Go Yellow and help us raise more money than ever for Marie Curie this March,
“To match our famous daffodil, we’d love our fundraisers to host yellow-themed bake sales, get their family and friends to wear yellow, craft yellow-themed items and host yellow-themed quiz nights or paint and sip nights to help raise much needed funds so we can bring vital hospice and end of life care to even more people.
“And if none of these are your thing – why not simply turn your hobby, social or sporting activity into a yellow fundraiser and do your thing this March to raise money for the country’s leading end of life charity.
“By getting involved and going yellow for Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal, locals will be doing something incredible and helping us to deliver services to those people with any illness they are likely to die from and their loved ones.
“The Great Daffodil Appeal only comes around once a year, so why not get in touch and be part of something that makes a real difference.”
As Marie Curie is the official charity partner of Morrisons, another way that people can get involved is by signing up to collect at the Morrisons store or by getting involved in some in-store fundraising activities from 23rd February until 8th March.
To find out more about how you can help give people the expert care they need this March visit: www.mariecurie.org.uk/goyellow
People in Edinburgh are encouraged to swap their slippers for their trainers this February and take part in Jog 28, a month-long challenge designed to boost physical health, mental wellbeing, and support vital mental health work.
Jog 28 runs throughout February and invites participants to complete 28 miles over 28 days. The challenge is free to join and open to all ages and abilities. Entrants are encouraged to register soon with the start of challenge just days away.
Participants can jog, walk, or run their miles at their own pace, making it an easy way to stay active and connected.
Fiona Halton, Head of Fundraising at Mental Health Foundation, said:“Whether you want to keep up the momentum of a great start to 2026, or like many of us, are getting through the gruelling first weeks of January and are primed to get up and moving; the Mental Health Foundation has got you covered with Jog 28, a challenge fundraiser that supports not just your physical health and mental wellbeing, but the vital work of the charity.
“We are inviting the people of Edinburgh to join us on Jog 28. This challenge is about turning up for yourselves; by moving, taking in your surroundings and taking care of your physical health, which will in turn boost your mental wellbeing.
Fiona adds: “Things are always easier when shared, and we know connection is key for good mental health.
“Jog 28 is a perfect opportunity to step out with a friend and catch up whilst improving your wellbeing. Plus, we know that it’s harder to talk past jogging pace – so keep it steady, and you’ll be able to jog and have a natter!
“Everyone deserves good mental health and every step you on take this challenge will help us build a society where everyone can thrive.
“We are not far away from February and the start of the challenge, so make sure you register in time to take part!”
Fundraising Target: Whatever you can raise – every contribution matters
There’s no registration fee, and participants can sign up at any time. Register now and receive a free Mental Health Foundation T-shirt (while stocks last). Anyone who raises at least £30 will get a free beanie.
Why take part in Jog 28?
Movement matters: Regular physical activity can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost energy levels.
Connecting with nature: Spending time outdoors, even in colder months, helps us feel grounded and more present.
Raise vital funds: Support good mental health for all and our work across the UK
Social connection: Walking with friends, family, or colleagues can strengthen relationships and reduce feelings of isolation.
Kindness in action: Taking on a challenge to support others is a meaningful act of compassion, and kindness is proven to benefit our own mental health too.
Team LifeCare invites runners of all abilities to join Scotland’s biggest running festival
Local runners are being encouraged to kick off their New Year fitness goals – or keep their good habits going – by signing up to run for a cause at the Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2026.
With standard entries for the Full and Half Marathon now sold out, the charity-exclusive entry period is officially underway. That means the only way to secure a place in these flagship events is by running for charity – and LifeCare Edinburgh is calling on the local community to join Team LifeCare!
Taking place over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend 23/24th May 2026, the Edinburgh Marathon Festival offers nine distances, from 5Ks to the full 26.2 miles, all set against some of Edinburgh’s most stunning routes. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just getting started, there’s a challenge to suit every ability.
Why run for Team LifeCare?
By running for LifeCare, every mile you cover helps support older people in our community to live healthier, more connected lives.
Guaranteed charity place in the Full or Half Marathon when you fundraise
A choice of nine distances, from 5K to Full Marathon
Unforgettable routes through and around Edinburgh
Be part of something meaningful while achieving a personal fitness goal
Final entry deadline: 1pm, Saturday 31 January 2026 (Full & Half Marathon charity places)
What your fundraising could support
Funds raised by Team LifeCare runners help deliver vital services for older people across Edinburgh, including:
Nutritious meals delivered directly to older people’s homes
Health and wellbeing activities that reduce loneliness and support unpaid carers
Social clubs, entertainment and companionship for older people
One-to-one care and support that helps people stay independent for longer
Ready to start your New Year challenge?
Places are limited, and demand is high. Runners are encouraged to sign up now to avoid disappointment.
We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported our 2025 Light Up a Life appeal. Thanks to the generous support of our community, the appeal raised over £110,000.
This incredible sum is already making a difference to people across Edinburgh and East Lothian, and will help us to expand our work to reach even more people in 2026. Thank you for your support!
David Matthews is walking to save lives by taking on the challenge of a 6,000 mile walk around the UK and Ireland visiting Samaritans volunteers to raise vital funds for the suicide prevention charity.
David’s Listening Walk began on the 10th September, World Suicide Prevention Day, and has so far taken him from Knoydart to Skye, Stornoway, Orkney, Inverness, Aberdeen, Dundee, Dunfermline, and arriving in Edinburgh on the 28th October.
David will make his way down to the Borders, before walking through England, Wales, and Ireland and heading back up the west coast of Scotland to Knoydart.
It’s not the first time that David has endeavored on such a challenge, having completed his first Listening Walk in 2019.
The first walk took place either side of lockdown, and was completed in 2021, walking a total of 6,100 miles. In the 2025 Kings New Years Honours list, David was awarded an MBE for services to The Listening Walk and Samaritans.
This time around, David is hoping to raise £50k for Samaritans by completing the walk. Donations can be made by visiting his fundraising page here.
A dedicated Samaritans volunteer of 16 years, David is also taking volunteering shifts with branches he visits on his way. David said: “It’s a tough walk, that’s for sure. It’s also coming into the winter which of course brings the challenge of the weather.
“I’ve been a listening volunteer for 16 years, so I know the challenges that I’m experiencing on this walk are minimal compared to what the people who call us are going through.
“This walk is for them, it’s to raise money and awareness so that we can keep helping the people who need us, and be there for them when they need us most.”
With countless stories to tell, memories made, and the sheer determination of taking on such a big task to raise money for suicide prevention, David will be releasing a book documenting the highs and the lows, the stories, and the people who kept him going along the first ever Listening Walk, on 11th November 2025.
Volunteers all over Scotland spent 35,400 hours responding to calls for help in 2024, and continue to be there around the clock for anyone who needs a listening ear, helping them believe in tomorrow.
