charity fundraising – Page 2 – The NEN

Bishop Brian scales hill to highlight water poverty

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.  

For more details on how to donate, please visit www.sciaf.org.uk/weebox.

To donate £10, please text SCIAF to 70580. Texts will cost £10 plus your standard network charge.  

Marie Curie calls for fundraisers to ‘Go Yellow’ this March

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 40^th 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 40^th 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

Step up for mental health: people in Edinburgh encouraged to jog 28 miles this February

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!”

Challenge details:

Dates: 1 – 28 February
Goal: Jog 28 miles throughout February
Cost: Free to join
Registration: Open now at Jog 28 Miles in February 2026
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.

For more information and to sign up, visit mentalhealth.org.uk/Jog28

LifeCare: Kick-start 2026 with a run that makes a difference

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.

Sign up today and secure your place: https://tinyurl.com/TeamLifeCare

St Columba’s Light Up a Life success

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!

Samaritans volunteer walking 6,000 miles to raise funds for suicide prevention arrives in Edinburgh

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 10^th 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 28^th 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 11^th November 2025.

You can follow David on his route on X, Instagram, and Facebook by following the @ListeningWalker or through the Listening Walk website.

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.

Poppy seller raises thousands on two-day rail marathon to Edinburgh marking ten years of fundraising

Poppy seller Denis Scaife, a well-known face on the East Coast Main Line, has completed his biggest fundraising challenge to date as he celebrates ten years of the ‘Poppy Express’ with the open access operators Lumo and Hull Trains.

74-year-old Denis, alongside his wife Barbara, took on a poppy selling marathon which saw them fundraising onboard Hull Trains and Lumo services from Retford to London King’s Cross, followed by Newcastle and Edinburgh and then all the way back again in the space of just two days.

Lumo and Hull Trains organised a special treat for Denis and his wife upon their arrival in Scotland, with an exclusive invitation for them to attend a Scottish Poppy Appeal reception at Holyrood. There they heard about Poppyscotland’s vital work with the Armed Forces, as well as meeting fellow fundraisers.

Denis started the ‘Poppy Express’ ten years ago with just him and his wife. It has now grown into an institution with 15 volunteers travelling along the East Coast Main Line to raise money every year. 2024’s efforts raised more than £15,000, with hopes 2025 will exceed that amount as £11,000 has already been achieved.

Richard Todd, National Poppy Appeal Manager – Scotland, said: “It was lovely to welcome Denis and Barbara firstly at Edinburgh Waverley Station as the arrived off their train and later at our Edinburgh reception event and to get the chance to thank them both personally for their volunteer fundraising over the years.

“They have gone above and beyond for the Armed Forces community, covering thousands of miles and raising thousands of pounds. Already they look to be on course to smash their target this year, which is absolutely amazing.

“On behalf of Poppyscotland, a huge thank you again to Denis and Barbara.”

Denis is a former Non-Commissioned Officer (sapper) with the Corps of Royal Engineers and his passion for the cause is clear. Reflecting on the challenge, he said: “Hull Trains have stood by me and the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal right from the start and it’s always a privilege to sell poppies to the friendly and generous customers onboard.

“Our poppy marathon, this time teaming up with Lumo as well, has been a really special way to mark ten years of fundraising.

“Having the chance to attend the Scottish Poppy Appeal reception was a unique opportunity and a special moment for myself and Barbara.

“I’d like to thank both Lumo and Hull Trains for their amazing support and here’s to many more years to come!”

Stuart Jones, Managing Director of First Rail Open Access, said: “As open access operators, we’re proud to be deeply rooted in the communities we serve.

“Denis’s dedication to the Poppy Appeal embodies the very best of community spirit and we are honoured to support him in such a meaningful cause.

“I’d like to wish Denis a huge congratulations for completing ten years of fundraising and, in particular, this impressive challenge!”

At 531 miles from Retford to Edinburgh via London King’s Cross, Denis’s total journey covers more than 1,000 miles and was fuelled by unlimited refreshments and snacks onboard the Lumo and Hull Trains services operating as the Poppy Express. It also coincides with London Poppy Day 2025 on the 30th October.

Springfield Golf Society marks 43 years of fundraising for Scotland’s children

The Springfield Golf Society celebrated an incredible 43 years of fundraising for Scotland’s national children’s charity at its annual golf tournament at Linlithgow Golf Club on Sunday 12 October.

This year’s event brought together more than 100 players and sponsors as part of a proud tradition of enjoying friendly competition while helping raise vital funds for Children First.

Founded in 1982 by four golf-loving neighbours from the Springfield Estate in Linlithgow, Frank Donnelly, Bill Thomson, Bobby Adair and George McKellar, the golf society began its charitable journey in 1986, raising a modest £45 for Children First, then known as the Royal Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

That first effort sparked a legacy that has now raised over £150,000, helping Children First provide practical, emotional and financial support to children and families when they need it most.

Frank Donnelly, now 81, is the last surviving founding member and remains a cherished figure in the society.

Reflecting on the early days and how it started with a golf professional running a competition to see who could raise the most money for charity, Frank said: “Being fathers ourselves, myself and the other three co-founders chose Scotland’s national children’s charity when we entered that first competition.

“We didn’t win that day, but we went on to do many, many fundraisers for Children First over the years and it’s become a great tradition. I’m proud that the society has grown since those early days and of every one of the past and current members who have played a huge part in raising funds for a worthy cause, which the local community has really got behind. The rest as they say is history.”

Frank’s wife, Cathie Donnelly also plays a key role, captaining the Springfield Ladies Golf Society, which was formed 25 years ago and has significantly contributed to the fundraising total.

While the society has held a variety of fundraisers over the years from whisky tastings to afternoon teas, the annual tournament at Linlithgow Golf Club remains the society’s flagship event.

This year’s competition featured sponsorship on all 18 holes and player entry fees that included donations to Children First.

Michelle Supple, Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications at Children First, praised the society’s enduring commitment to supporting the charity. She said “Our heartfelt thanks go to both sections of the Society and every single person involved in fundraising for Children First at Springfield Golf Society over the past four decades. Their dedication means the world to us.

“Their incredible efforts have raised over £150,000 to help protect Scotland’s children and give them a brighter future.”

To donate to Children First go to www.childrenfirst.org.uk/donate

ECHC Halloween Stall at Gyle Shopping Centre

Join us on Saturday, 25th October, 10 AM–4 PM for the ECHC Halloween Stall – a spooktacular day of games, glitter tattoos, and a chance to meet your favourite Star Wars characters!

Plus, don’t miss the tombola packed with fang-tastic prizes!

All in support of Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity

#GyleHalloween

#ECHC

The Space Dome arrives in Livingston to help raise funds for CHAS

The Centre, Livingston has unveiled plans for the arrival of its first-ever 8m Space Dome, from the 18-27^thOctober, where visitors can enjoy a 360° planetarium film experience through the galaxy and take part in science-themed activities, including handling Campo Del Ceilo meteorites from Argentina that are 4.6 billion years old.

The Space Dome, complete with giant space props, including a 5ft inflatable rocket and moon, has been created by the astronomer, Zee Dinally, who has travelled the world with his pop-up planetariums to give people an insight into the solar system and night sky.

The full-dome film with surround sound, entitled ‘Journey to Infinity’, is narrated by the former Blue Peter producer and BBC presenter, Sue Beardsmore, and takes you on virtual journey through space to explore distant galaxies from infinity to beyond, and discover how we are connected to the cosmos.

The event, which will take place during the October school break, is designed to provide an immersive, educational and fun experience for shoppers, especially avid space, astronomy and geology enthusiasts, who can learn more about meteorites that reveal the ancient geometry of the solar system.

There will also be a Virtual Reality Zone with headsets and astronaut costumes for children to embark on their own virtual space trip and explore natural astronomical objects including stars, planets, the moon, asteroids, comets and galaxies.

The Space Dome event, which will be located next to Waterstones and run daily from 10 – 4pm, also provides the opportunity to raise funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland, CHAS, which is the winter charity partner at The Centre, Livingston, for the third consecutive year.

All activities are free with donations optional for CHAS, which provides the only hospice services in Scotland for children with life-shortening conditions and support for families, including respites and counselling.

Zhenya Dove, Community Fundraiser at CHAS, said: “We are so excited to be part of this amazing Space Dome adventure at The Centre, Livingston.

“It’s a great way for families to enjoy some time together and make precious memories, which is exactly what’s at the heart of everything we do at CHAS.

“Every donation, no matter the size, helps us bring moments of joy to children with life-shortening conditions and their families.”

Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston said: “Our Space Dome event will give visitors the chance to enjoy a great day shopping, dining out and also have fun watching a captivating space-themed film in a planetarium, where you can soar through the solar system.

“We’ll also have astronaut costumes and VR headsets for children to experience their own personal voyages through the universe and other activities including the opportunity to handle real Campo Del Ceilo meteorites from Argentina, which are 4.6 billion years old.

“The event will also give us a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness and funds for CHAS, who we are delighted to be supporting again this year.”

For more details, check out The Centre, Livingston website, www.thecentrelivingston.com and social channels, @shopthecentre.