Edinburgh’s Christmas’ Santa Paws event attracted over 100 dogs in festive outfits. The event took place on Sunday, 7 December in West Princes Street Gardens, the city’s premier family destination this festive season. It raised awareness of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, a local charity which was also fundraising at the event.
Furry friends (and their humans) also enjoyed games, photo opportunities with Santa’s elves, pet stalls including Bowzos Bows and Pure Pet Food and took part in a best dressed dog parade with winners chosen by the organisers: 3rd place went to Pisco, 2nd to Luigi and 1st to Winton.
The charity event raised funds for Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, which strives to support families who need help caring for their pets at home, as well as providing loving care, rehabilitation and rehoming services for animals who can no longer be cared for by their owners.
Santa Paws took place after the annual Santa Fun Run, also in West Princes Street Gardens, which each year raises funds for When You Wish Upon A Star, who grant the wishes of children aged 4–16 living with life-threatening or terminal illnesses.
The eventful, family friendly afternoon brought festive joy to all who attended, raising money for two important charities.
Life Raluy,Development Manager at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home said: “Today’s Santa Run and Santa Paws gathering was a fantastic celebration of people and their pets coming together for a great cause.
“We may not have broken a record this time, but the atmosphere was full of joy, kindness and community spirit. Every person — and every dog in a festive jumper — helped raise vital funds and awareness for animals who need us.
“We’re so thankful to everyone who joined us and made today so special.”
Children First is urging shoppers across Edinburgh and the Lothians to donate gifts through its festive Amazon Wish List to give children, who might otherwise go without, a brighter Christmas.
Online shoppers could make a huge difference to children and families supported by Children First across Edinburgh and the Lothians this Christmas.
Scotland’s national children’s charity protects children from harm and supports them to recover from trauma and abuse in their homes, schools and communities and through its national support line.
The charity’s team in Edinburgh has launched its festive Amazon Wish List so that people can give local children, that might otherwise go without, a brighter Christmas by choosing a gift online to donate.
Supporters can choose from a range of gifts, including supermarket vouchers to help families with festive essentials, warm clothing and blankets, or toys and games for children of all ages.
Simon McGowan, Assistant Director at Children First, said: “Many families across Edinburgh and the Lothians will be finding things tough this Christmas with increased pressure on family budgets.
“By choosing to donate a gift through our Amazon Wish List, your gift will bring joy to children and families that might otherwise go without.
“At Children First we rely on the generosity of donations to provide practical, emotional and financial help and hope to families.
“We are so grateful for people’s support. Please donate a gift if you can and help brighten Christmas for children across Edinburgh and the Lothians.”
Children First offers practical, emotional and financial support to children and families across Scotland.
If you are a parent or carer who is struggling, Children First’s support line is here to help on 08000 28 22 33.
Our tree is up in Corstorphine Library, and we’ve got almost as many baubles as we do Christmas books that you can borrow!
There have already been some collections made thanks to the efforts of the Corstorphine Christmas Support Project and the generosity of our community.
We are still collecting food and toiletry donations until Tuesday 9th December if you can help put some essentials and treats under the tree of someone in need.
If you are able to donate time or money instead, please check out their website below:
SCOTTISH BUILDING SOCIETY FOUNDATION SUPPORTS LOCAL CHARITIES MAKING AN IMPACT IN THEIR COMMUNITIES
Scottish Building Society Foundation has awarded £25,000 in the last year to support community groups and charities across the country.
This year the Foundation supported seven community initiatives across Scotland, providing grants of up to £5,000 to help deliver life-changing work in their local area.
Since launching in 2023, the Foundation has awarded £155,000 funding to more than 40 charities, providing support to a wide array of areas including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perth and Kinross, Clackmannanshire, Stirling and the Scottish Borders.
Among those supported this year were Forth Canoe Club in Edinburgh, who received money to fund adaptive hand grips, buoyancy aids and a small trailer to help people with disabilities learn canoeing.
In Clackmannanshire, Ochil Trail Association was awarded a grant to support insurance costs for maintaining popular mountain bike and shared-use trails across Clackmannanshire and Stirling.
Bridgeton Community Learning Campus in Glasgow received funding to make its community centre heating system more efficient for the winter. The Birks Cinema Trust in Perth and Kinross used its grant to strengthen its social inclusion activities within the community.
Works+ in the Scottish Borders upgraded its IT equipment to improve digital literacy and employability among local young people. In central Scotland, Trossachs Tigers Hockey Club in Sterling used funding to launch an indoor hockey programme for children in rural areas.
The Foundation also provided a grant to Duntocher Village Hall to fund essential repairs to the hall’s wooden floor.
Paul Denton, CEO of Scottish Building Society, said:“As a mutual organisation we understand how vital local communities are and we’re here to support them.
“Over the past year, the Scottish Building Society Foundation has made a real difference to communities across the country, from improving facilities and creating opportunities to supporting inclusion and wellbeing.
“It’s inspiring to see how these grants are helping local groups bring people together and make a lasting, positive impact. We’re committed to continuing our support throughout 2026.”
Scottish Building Society Foundation was established by Scottish Building Society to mark the organisation’s 175th anniversary.
Launched in partnership with Foundation Scotland, the Scottish Building Society Foundation aims to establish a best-in-class benchmark supporting community-based organisations and has so far awarded £155,000 in funding to charities since it began.
The Foundation’s sixth round of funding is currently open to applicants, welcoming bids from charities working across a broad range of initiatives from improving community facilities to tackling poverty, supporting older people, funding local events and providing youth education, and opportunities for vulnerable people.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has announced that its special 75th Anniversary fundraising initiative has raised a remarkable £157,161.75 for St Columba’s Hospice Care, following the conclusion of this year’s Show.
The donation, generated from 75p from every ticket sold in 2025, aimed to resonate with the message of this year’s performance, The Heroes Who Made Us, celebrating and supporting those that go above and beyond in our society.
This donation will enable St Columba’s Hospice Care to continue providing compassionate, free-of-charge palliative and end-of-life care to individuals and families across the region.
During the 75th Anniversary Show, each performance included a special moment honouring different individuals, highlighted as Spotlight Heroes, whose dedication and service enrich communities and the lives of those they encounter. Among those celebrated was Liz Gallagher, a valued fundraising volunteer at St Columba’s Hospice Care.
Liz has been part of the hospice’s fundraising team for six years, giving countless hours to bucket collections, events, and creative fundraising ideas. In her day job supporting people with additional needs, Liz involves her clients in St Columba’s Hospice Care fundraising activities, helping them feel part of the hospice community.
The donation from The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will be put towards St Columba’s Hospice Care’s continued specialist care provision for people across Edinburgh and the Lothians ensuring that individuals and families can access the support they rely on at such an important time.
This donation goes above and beyond the Tattoo’s usual charitable giving which sees surplus profits distributed annually to military and arts charities in the UK. St Columba’s Hospice Care was chosen by the community with over 50,000 votes cast to select from a selection of non-military charities that provide vital services in the local community.
Jackie Stone, CEO at St Columba’s Hospice Care, said: “Incredible donations like this don’t come along very often, and at a time when hospices across Scotland are facing significant funding challenges, we are especially grateful.
“Support from our community has never been more vital and we are deeply thankful to everyone who voted for us and helped generate this remarkable sum, simply by going along to enjoy the Show.
“It was also wonderful to see our volunteer, Liz, recognised as one of the heroes of the Tattoo’s 75th Anniversary. Her energy, creativity and dedication truly reflect the spirit of our entire hospice community.
“We would like to thank the Tattoo once again for this generous donation. It comes at an important time, helping us continue to provide specialist, compassionate care for people across Edinburgh and the Lothians and ensuring that individuals and families can access the support they rely on, when they need it most.”
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “Our 75th Anniversary was a tribute to the people who have built and sustained the Tattoo over the years, and it was a privilege to extend that celebration to community heroes like Liz and the team at St Columba’s Hospice Care.
“This donation was made possible entirely thanks to our wonderful audience, whose support enables us to contribute to partner charities and champion the military, traditional arts, and—this year—an extraordinary cause.
“We are proud to stand behind such an exceptional organisation and the dedicated volunteers who give their time so selflessly.”
New research has revealed one in two people (56 per cent) living in Edinburgh have experienced feelings of loneliness at Christmas, with almost one in five (18 per cent) saying they expect to feel lonelier this year than they did last Christmas.
The research, conducted by Fort Kinnaird in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation, also found that more than half (53 per cent) of people in Edinburgh said they wouldn’t know where to turn for help when struggling with loneliness or isolation.
Worryingly, almost half (49 per cent) also said they don’t feel comfortable confiding in someone they trust about how they feel – a tendency that increases with age.
In response, Fort Kinnaird has teamed up with Edinburgh-based charities Cyrenians and Edinburgh Young Carers to help raise awareness of the support they can provide for vulnerable groups experiencing feelings of loneliness, including people who are homeless and young carers.
Cyrenians works to tackle the causes and consequences of homelessness, including social isolation, by offering prevention, early-intervention and supported-housing services.
Meanwhile, Edinburgh Young Carers provides respite and support to young people who care for somebody at home. They aim to improve the lives and wellbeing of young carers by raising awareness, offering emotional and practical support and by giving each young person the opportunity to take a break from their caring role which can be very isolating.
Fort Kinnaird will be donating advertising space to both of the local charities, helping to signpost the vital support for those who need it most, while also encouraging donations. Adverts promoting the charities will feature across its digital screens, on posters and bathroom mirror vinyls, as well as on social media and the centre’s website during the festive period.
Later this month, the centre will also bring back its popular Letters of Hope initiative for the second year, where shoppers are encouraged to share messages of support that will once again be distributed by Cyrenians to vulnerable members of the community, helping to combat social isolation over the festive period.
Shoppers will also be able to make a voluntary donation to Cyrenians through a donation point located next to the ‘Letters of Hope’ Mailbox.
To support young people experiencing loneliness, the centre will also be hosting digital workshops run by animation and film makers D Fie Foe, in partnership with Edinburgh Young Carers. The workshops will aim to provide young people with useful skills in digital filmmaking, whilst using creativity as a platform to connect and collaborate with others.
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said:“The festive period is a truly special time for us at Fort Kinnaird, bringing people from across the community together to enjoy our Christmas markets and festive activities, but sadly we know that it can be a lonelier time for some.
“Having worked closely with Cyrenians over the past year, we’re acutely aware of the impact that social isolation and loneliness can have and wanted to build on our partnership to increase our support for those in need this Christmas.
“We’re proud to be partnering Cyrenians and Edinburgh Young Carers to raise awareness of the local support available, whilst creating opportunities for meaningful moments of connection this Christmas.
“We look forward to seeing the messages of festive joy shared by our visitors through Letters of Hope, whilst raising valuable donations for Cyrenians.”
Alexa Knight, Director of Policy and Influence for the Mental Health Foundation, said: “We can all feel lonely at times, but when loneliness lasts for a long period, it can have a profound impact on our mental health.
“At Christmas, this can feel even harder because the portrayal of the season as full of joy and togetherness can deepen feelings of isolation if we are lonely.
“Working with Fort Kinnaird allows us to shine a light on an issue that is often hidden, encourage open conversations, and connect people with the support and understanding they need this Christmas and beyond.
“It’s important to note that loneliness isn’t something individuals should have to fix alone; we all have a role to play. Taking time to check in with people around us, offering a listening ear, or creating spaces where others feel welcome can make a real difference.”
The research also revealed that whilst loneliness is often associated with older generations, younger people are increasingly struggling too, with more than a third (34 per cent) of 18–24-year-olds anticipating greater feelings of loneliness this year.
Social media also emerged as a key influence, with almost a quarter (24 per cent) of people saying that online platforms make them feel more alone at Christmas, whilst financial pressures (43 per cent), being physically distant from family and friends (29 per cent) and the recent loss of a loved one (27 per cent) and were the key reasons behind feelings of disconnection.
Margaret Murphy, Chief Executive at Edinburgh Young Carers,said:“Edinburgh Young Carers are delighted to be working with Fort Kinnaird on this campaign in the run up to the festive period.
“Young carers take on incredible responsibilities for their loved ones throughout the year, and Christmas can often be an isolating and difficult time.
We hope this campaign will highlight the support that young car”ers and young adult carers have a right to access – including a break from caring and a chance to have fun and spend time with friends.”
Throughout the festive period, Fort Kinnaird will also be transformed into a festive wonderland filled with seasonal street food, artisan gifts, fairground rides and spectacular circus shows for all to enjoy.
The Vittoria Group has revealed the first two beneficiaries of its new Vittoria Giving Back programme, launched last month in honour of the group’s 55th anniversary, to support local organisations making a difference across Edinburgh.
The inaugural recipients Teens+ and Prospect Bank School were selected from the first round of applications, with each receiving donations worth up to £1,000. Rather than providing cash, the Vittoria Group chose to fund specific items requested by each organisation, ensuring the support would deliver long-term, practical impact.
Teens+, a transitional education service, based beside Vittoria on the Walk on McDonald Road, supports young adults with complex learning difficulties across its four centres in Edinburgh and East Lothian, helping learners gain confidence and prepare for life beyond school.
As technology becomes central to everyday independence, whether communicating online, completing coursework, making bookings or working toward qualifications, Teens+ highlighted the growing need for accessible IT equipment. The group will receive a specialist laptop to help students build essential digital skills and engage safely in an increasingly online world.
The second recipient is Prospect Bank School in Leith, which supports primary-aged children with complex, long-term additional support needs, including intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
The school focuses on helping pupils communicate, manage sensory input, and participate in meaningful learning experiences. Funding from Vittoria Giving Back will enable the purchase of a SENSIS Cube – a piece of sensory play equipment designed for spinning, swinging and climbing, offering pupils calming or stimulating activities tailored to their needs.
The Vittoria Group is encouraging local schools, charities, youth groups and community organisations to apply for the next round of support.
Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards is giving away £120,000 as part of its annual 12 Days of Giving Christmas campaign
For 12 days in the lead up to Christmas the specialist financial services group is giving £1,000 to ten charities each day – with 120 charities in total benefitting from a festive financial boost.
Nominations are now open, and residents in Edinburgh are being encouraged to nominate a cause they care about to give them a chance of receiving a share of the award money.
Draws will take place every weekday between 1st – 16th December and nominating is easy using the online form at www.movementforgood.com. Winners are drawn at random with every charity nominated in with a chance of winning a vital donation this Christmas.
Last year two Edinburgh-based charities received £1,000 in the draw. Central Leith After School Provision and Scottish Wildlife Trust were selected following nominations from kind-hearted members of the public.
Mark Hews, Group Chief Executive of Benefact Group, said: “We’re delighted to be giving away another £120,000 in valuable donations to causes around the country. We know that charities across the country are struggling, and for many the festive season is a critical time. We’re asking residents to take a few minutes of their time to nominate a cause they especially care about.
“Owned by a charity, Benefact Group gives all of its available profits go to good causes, and the more the Group grows, the more the Group can give. We know that £1,000 can make a huge difference to the incredible work that charities do and we’re looking forward to seeing how this financial boost will change lives for the better.”
Benefact Group has donated over £250million to charitable causes since 2014 and last year was recognised as the third biggest corporate giver in the UK1 over the last decade.
Movement for Good is funded by EIO plc, part of the Benefact Group.
Join Mary’s Meals for an uplifting fundraising Christmas Choir Concert at the city’s St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral
This Christmas, Edinburgh residents can give the gift of hope to hungry children – by joining Mary’s Meals for a lively celebration of Christmas through song.
The event takes place on Wednesday, 17 December from 19:00 to 21:00, and will include a fantastic selection of joyous carols, uplifting music and inspirational songs, sung by Voices and Sister Sister – two local community choirs. Guests will also get to enjoy a mug of hot chocolate, a glass of mulled wine and mince pies.
Proceeds from the event go towards providing nutritious school meals for hungry children living in some of the world’s poorest communities. These meals attract children into the classroom where they can gain an education that can be their ladder out of poverty.
The Scotland-based charity reaches an incredible three million children every school day, across 16 countries – including Ethiopia, Haiti and Zimbabwe.
Tickets for the event start at £8 and can be secured by visiting:
Sally Davidson, Mary’s Meals Supporter Engagement Officer for East Scotland, says: “It costs just £19.15 to feed a child with Mary’s Meals for an entire school year – or just 10p a meal.
“Help us turn hunger into hope for children still waiting for our life-changing meals by joining us for a night of joy, connection, and purpose.”
Give hope this Christmas – and with Double The Love, your donation can go twice as far! From 10 November, all donations made to Mary’s Meals will be doubled by a group of generous supporters, up to £1.1 million.
The gift matching will end when we reach the £1.1 million pot. Together, through Double The Love, we can transform the lives of many more desperately hungry children waiting for Mary’s Meals.
RAINBOWS AND BROWNIES RAISE £3600 FOR MISSION CHRISTMAS
Huge well done to the Blackhall Rainbows and Brownies who raised more than £3,600 for Mission Christmas by ‘growing £1’.
This meant each girl was given £1 and had to come up with a fundraising idea to help “grow” it. They then took the money they had fundraised to B&M and spent it on gifts for children living in poverty, which they then donated to Mission Christmas with Cash for Kids.
Thanks to a 10% discount from B&M Edinburgh, the group was able to donate more than £4,500 worth of gifts – which equated to four jam-packed car loads!
