Tag: charity support

Support for Rock Trust

The Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust (AVCT) is pleased to announce a donation of £3,000 to Rock Trust, Scotland’s dedicated youth homelessness charity.  

This funding will support Rock Trust’s efforts to expand their services, including increasing housing provision and introducing their innovative Youth Housing Hub model to Glasgow for the first time. 

Rock Trust was formed in 1990 after the discovery that young homeless people had been sleeping rough in the graveyard of St. Cuthbert’s Church in Edinburgh, and since then has grown its operation into Glasgow, the Lothians, Perth and Fife, and is committed to ending youth homelessness.  

In 2023 alone, the organization helped over 1,100 young people to avoid, or move on from, homelessness; like Danny, who came to Rock Trust at the age of 16. 

Danny was living at home with his mum. Their relationship was troubled to the extent that his aunt had referred him to Rock Trust in the hope that their Early Intervention Programme might improve their relationship through 1-to-1 counselling. 

But when an argument between Danny and his mum eventually turned violent, it became clear that he was no longer safe. Rock Trust were quickly able to move him into a shared flat with other young people and a supportive flatmate. 

Danny’s support worker has helped him to access financial support and explore his potential. He has started going to art therapy and has completed an external employability course. 

At 16, Danny didn’t just need a home, he needed help to process everything that had happened to him, help to discover his potential, guidance on developing essential life skills, and ultimately help to make the transition to adulthood. 

Speaking of his experience with Rock Trust, Danny said, “I am more free, I’m happier, and I’m treated like an actual person. I’ve been given opportunities to do stuff and meet new people.  

“I think I’m a better person, less antisocial. A lot of bad stuff would have happened if I didn’t have the Rock Trust. I’ve even got a better relationship with my mum now we don’t live together.” 

The charity focuses on three strategic pillars: prioritizing prevention, increasing housing availability, and ensuring a focus on future opportunities for young people.  

Calum Wright, Trusts and Grants Fundraising Lead at Rock Trust, highlighted the urgency of their work: “Scotland is facing a housing emergency which is disproportionately affecting our young people.

“At Rock Trust, we believe that accommodation, support, education, and employment are the best routes off the streets and away from the misery that accompanies homelessness.

“Thanks to supporters like the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, we can help more young people avoid, survive, and move on from homelessness for good.” 

This donation from the AVCT will play a crucial role in Rock Trust’s mission to combat youth homelessness amid rising costs, cuts in statutory funding, and an increasingly competitive fundraising environment. 

David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, expressed his support, stating: “Homelessness is a heartbreakingly real prospect for many young people and a frightening reality for others.

“We are proud to support Rock Trust in their vital work to provide immediate and effective assistance to those in need and to help them build a stable future.

Our contribution aims to ensure that more young people have access to safe housing and essential ongoing support to rebuild and lead healthy, independent lives.” 

Gilded Balloon celebrates Pink Wednesday today with £5 tickets for charity

THOUSANDS OF DISCOUNTED TICKETS WILL RAISE FUNDS FOR WAVERLEY CARE FOR 24 HOURS ONLY

It’s time to paint the town pink once more as Gilded Balloon, one of Edinburgh Festival Fringe’s longest-running venues, kicks off their legendary Pink Wednesday – a 24 hour charity day with £5 tickets for some of the Fringe’s most in-demand shows. 

Gilded Balloon’s staff, performers and customers join together to don their best pink outfits and fundraise for this year’s charity partner Waverley Care, all whilst enjoying discounted tickets for Fringe shows, fancy dress, competition prizes and more.

With 130 shows across two venues in 2024, Patter House and the National Museum of Scotland, fans can snap up £5 tickets for comedy, theatre, family, cabaret and more, with a percentage of ticket sales donated directly to Waverley Care, Scotland’s leading HIV and hepatitis C charity. 

Acts raising funds for Waverley Care include Jack Docherty in The Chief – No Apologies, Martin Brock, Juliette Burton,  Hypnotist Matt Hale, Chris Hall, Pop Off, Michelangelo, Grace Campbell and more, with £5 tickets available for these shows via Gilded Baloon’s box offices and websites.

Visit tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk to view all shows offering £5 tickets today across family, comedy, cabaret, theatre, magic and more. 

Ts&Cs: £5 plus handling fees. Tickets to participating shows only, whilst stocks last 

Traditionally nicknamed ‘Black Wednesday’ and known as a day of slower ticket sales across the Fringe, Gilded Balloon introduced Pink Wednesday in 2018 to encourage locals and Fringe fans to take a chance on a new show and enjoy discounted tickets, all whilst raising vital funds for charity.

Each £5 ticket sold will see money donated to Waverley Care, as well as charity staff fundraising throughout the day with bucket collections, QR codes and information points. 

Waverley Care was founded in 1989 in response to the HIV epidemic in Edinburgh, the charity now focuses on ending new HIV transmission in Scotland by 2030, while continuing to support people and communities affected by HIV, hepatitis C and sexual health inequalities. 

Katy and Karen Koren, Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon said: “It’s officially time to paint the town pink again as we launch £5 tickets for one day only, in support of the wonderful Waverley Care.

“Pink Wednesday is a chance for acts, customers and staff to join together and raise money for charity, support our brilliant artists and see some fantastic shows for only £5. It’s a great opportunity to take a chance on something new and buy a ticket for a show you haven’t heard of before, and maybe discover your new favourite comedian!

“We’re thrilled to see so many acts opt in to support Waverley Care by donating a percentage of their ticket sales for today to the charity, as they do unparalleled and vitally important work across Scotland. We hope everyone embraces the Pink Wednesday spirit, dons their best pink outfits today and comes down to get involved!”  

Grant Sugden, Chief Executive, Waverley Care said: “Waverley Care is delighted to be chosen as Gilded Balloon’s charity partner for this year’s Pink Wednesday event. This collaboration is an incredible opportunity to tackle HIV stigma and raise vital funds. 

“Scotland is on the verge of becoming one of the first countries to achieve zero new HIV transmission. To reach this goal, we need more people to get tested, to improve access to HIV prevention medication Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), and to end harmful HIV stigma.  

“We look forward to engaging with people attending shows, sharing our mission to end new HIV transmission by 2030, and raising money to support those affected by HIV and hepatitis C across Scotland.”

Waverley Care is Scotland’s leading HIV and hepatitis C charity, and everything they do is guided by the experiences of the people they work with – this ranges from shaping the services they deliver through to how they influence national policy around sexual health and blood-borne viruses (BBVs).

Waverley Care’s vision is a Scotland where anyone living with or at risk of HIV can expect to be treated with acceptance, support and respect. Find out more information and support Waverley Care – www.waverleycare.org 

With over 130 shows across two venues including Patter House and the National Museum of Scotland, Gilded Balloon’s programme covers comedy, theatre, magic, kids shows and much more. 

Tickets  via  www.tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk 

Edinburgh Teacher Cycles 1,000 Miles for Disabled Children

An Edinburgh primary school teacher, who lives with a brain injury and epilepsy, has completed a 1000-mile mission to raise funds for a disabled children’s charity.

Milo Trainor Moss (28), who also has a cardiac implanted device after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest in 2020, has spent the last four weeks completing the adventurous solo cycle across northern Europe to support The Yard, his mother’s place of work.

Milo cycled 500 miles from Gothenburg to Hamburg and then another 500 miles via Amsterdam and Newcastle. His Dad Richard buddied him on the final leg of his cycle back into Edinburgh, arriving at The Yard together on Friday 2 August. 

Smashing his fundraising target of £1,000, £1 per mile, Milo has since raised over £1500 bolstered by the generosity of Richard’s employer, Natwest, which will donate an additional £500 through its Community Cashback Scheme.

Milo said, “I’ve been acutely aware of The Yard’s impact for many years but since becoming a primary school teacher, the difference the charity makes has come into sharper focus.

“I saw the summer holiday as the ideal opportunity to use my cycle challenge to help The Yard do more of what they do best, supporting young people with disabilities and additional needs, and their families.

“There’s no doubt that I had to consider my limitations and plan the route around my health challenges, but it was otherwise just a case of getting on with it and powering on. Arriving back at The Yard and being reminded of how amazing a place it is made it all worthwhile.”

Katrina Trainor, his mum, who has been The Yard’s Edinburgh receptionist for 10 years added, “To say we are proud of Milo is a huge understatement.  He is one in a million in so many ways.

“Milo was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of eight and lives with a hypoxic brain injury but otherwise gets on with life and is always pushing himself to do more. He’s loved this latest adventure and the freedom he’s had along the way.

“While facing his own health difficulties, he’s so resilient and always moving forward. In many ways, he is the embodiment of The Yard. 

“His cycle challenge has been brilliant for The Yard but also wonderful for Milo – we are exceptionally proud!”

Her pride is echoed by Celine Sinclair, Chief Executive Officer of The Yard, who said, “We are incredibly grateful that Milo chose to embark on this epic endeavour for The Yard.

“As well as raising a significant sum for our charity, which will allow the young people we support to enjoy their own adventures, his journey will inspire countless other young people and show that, even in the face of adversity, we can always strive for more and make a difference to others.

“Milo, we thank you and applaud you!”

To donate to Milo’s campaign, please visit  Milo’s Scandi / Scottish Summer Cycle

For more information about The Yard, visit https://www.theyardscotland.org.uk/

Crumbs! Comedy troupe Biscuit Barrel kick off food bank fundraiser

Comedy troupe Biscuit Barrel kicked off their Edinburgh food bank fundraiser with a twist this week when members donned biscuit costumes and packed emergency food parcels at the Edinburgh Food Project warehouse.

Their Edinburgh Fringe show ‘Not Another 69-Sketch Show’ runs from 31 July – 26 August at the Gilded Balloon, and will help to support seven local food banks.

Audiences can contribute to the Edinburgh Food Project thanks to post-performance bucket collections and make a real difference to those struggling to afford the essentials.

First aid volunteers in Edinburgh receive share of £28,000 donation

St Andrews First Aid, Scotland’s only dedicated first aid charity, has been awarded a £28,000 lifeline from leading Scottish convenience retailer, Scotmid.

The funding has been used to purchase new uniforms for staff and volunteers across Scotland, including those located in Edinburgh, who provide life-saving training and emergency response services.

Stuart Callison, CEO at St Andrew’s First Aid, said: “Scotmid’s generous donation means we can purchase more uniforms that will help to enhance our visibility and identity when we cover events or provide public demonstrations.

We are extremely grateful to Scotmid for this support and continued partnership in helping us achieve our mission of making Scotland a safer place for all.”

Lynne Ogg, Scotmid Membership & Communities Manager, added: “The work that St Andrew’s First Aid delivers in communities across Scotland is invaluable and we are proud to continue supporting such a worthy charity. 

“The funding will assist the organisation in ensuring its dedicated volunteers are easily identifiable and bring peace of mind to the general public when attending events.”

St Andrew’s First Aid provides vital first aid and mental first aid courses and actively promotes first aid education in schools and communities. Its mission is rooted in the belief that no one should suffer or lose their life due to a lack of first aid assistance.

Walk the Walk in Tartan for Edinburgh Leisure

Edinburgh Leisure, the city’s leading sports and leisure provider is calling on anyone looking for a new challenge to don their tartan and join them to take part in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk to raise funds for their award-winning Ageing Well project.

An Edinburgh Leisure and NHS Lothian initiative, Ageing Well keeps hundreds of older adults in Edinburgh more connected and physically active, by offering low-cost city-wide activities that encourage active living and socialisation all the while boosting their health and wellbeing.

Jenny Selman, Funding Manager for Edinburgh Leisure explained: “Part of our Active Communities programme, Ageing Well is led or supported by trained older adult volunteers and our participants and volunteers really benefit both mentally and physically from taking part. 

“It caters for a diverse range of interests and abilities, with activities including walking groups, cycling, gardening at our allotment and buddy swimming.

“Unfortunately, the programme is facing a funding shortfall of £17k, so we’re encouraging people to sign up to the Kiltwalk to raise some much-needed funds for Ageing Well and hopefully, get active, and stay active because of taking part.

“We hope that the funds raised by our supporters, coupled with generous donations we receive throughout the year, will enable us to continue with this valued programme. Every pound raised really will make a difference.”

All those signing up to the Kiltwalk to raise funds for Edinburgh Leisure will receive a 50% discount on the registration fee and also an Edinburgh Leisure T-shirt and a tartan-themed snood.

The Kiltwalk takes place on Sunday, 15th September 2024. Three walk lengths are available: 

  • The Mighty Stride (approx. 21 miles) – £20 £10 registration fee 
  • The Big Stroll (approx. 11 miles) – £20 £10 registration fee 
  • The Wee Wander (approx. 5 miles) – £12.50 £6.25 for adults, £6.50 £3.25 for children 

Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme supports 12,500 people who face the greatest barriers to getting active annually – people affected by health conditions, inequalities, and poverty.

Your participation in the Kiltwalk will raise crucial funds to promote health, happiness, and connectedness among older adults in Edinburgh whilst contributing to a fantastic and enjoyable event. 

To find out more about signing up with Edinburgh Leisure to walk the Kiltwalk, and to get your 50% discount, click here.

To find out more about the Kiltwalk, click here.

SGN & Kidney Care UK partnership to provide support to thousands of people with kidney disease

SGN is leading a new £2.5 million partnership with Kidney Care UK which will see them work with the UK’s gas distribution networks (GDNs)1 to offer specialist support to help nearly 18,000 people living with kidney failure across the UK – 1,250 of those in Scotland.

Currently in Scotland there are 1,250 people with advanced kidney disease who rely on dialysis to stay alive. The majority of these patients have a routine which consists of three to four sessions of dialysis a week, each taking up to 6 hours or more in hospital.

On top of this they have to manage the associated stress and time pressures of travel to and from treatment. Due to the time constraints and health impacts associated with treatment for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), only 26% of people on dialysis are in full time employment2. The consequent low income means many people with kidney failure live in relative poverty, compounded by the misery of increasing costs of living.

The unique and transformational partnership, uniting statutory, charitable and corporate sectors, will support vulnerable customers most in need, providing people living with CKD, with vital support to help tackle fuel poverty.

The initial two-year project will provide a holistic suite of services, including face-to-face support, where customers will get assistance with benefit entitlement, welfare support and specialist money and energy advice.

The service will maximise outcomes, in terms of financial support, whilst also promoting energy and carbon monoxide awareness.

The expansion of Kidney Care UK’s patient support services will mean that people on dialysis will have access to a dedicated, personal, face-to-face support service.

This will serve the 1,250 kidney patients on dialysis treatment in the 26 units across Scotland, as well as supporting people in the North East, North West, the South West and South East of England. Delivered by trained and trusted Patient Support & Advocacy Officers, the service will enable patients to access all the benefits and welfare support they are entitled to.

Laurie Cuthbert, Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications at Kidney Care UK, said: “We are pleased to be working with SGN as part of a transformational partnership with the Gas Distribution Networks across the UK to support nearly 18,000 vulnerable kidney patients in need of immediate support; 1,250 of these in Scotland.

“Philanthropic investment from our partners is enabling Kidney Care UK to increase its direct, on the ground support to thousands of dialysis patients, delivering tangible welfare and wellbeing benefits at a time when it is more important than ever”.

Linda Spence, Vulnerability Manager at SGN, said: “We’re committed to keeping our communities safe and warm and we know people with health conditions are uniquely impacted by higher than average energy costs.

“By working in a joined-up way with Kidney Care UK, we’re able to reach those who are really struggling and provide much needed energy advice. Through building strong connections we can help vulnerable households get much needed help.”

For more information about Kidney Care UK’s patient support services go to https://kidneycareuk.org/get-support/

Edinburgh coffee company creates perfect blend to raise funds for CHAS

An Edinburgh-based coffee and tea company has created a unique blend of coffee to raise funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).

The team at Marchmont’s Red Box Coffee will donate £1 from every kg sold of their new ECHO coffee line to CHAS.

The specially created coffee is made up of beans from Brazil, Guatemala and Ethiopia and has tasting notes of peanuts, caramel and chocolate. The ECHO design has been created in collaboration with CHAS using the charity’s alphabet letter branding and is available to buy in store at Red Box Marchmont (Edinburgh) or online here: https://www.redboxcoffee.com/.

The coffee has already brewed up some local support from Edinburgh law firm Turcan Connell which has signed up as the line’s first wholesale customer. 

Chris Dunstan, Head of Wholesale at Red Box Coffee said: “At Red Box we believe in the power of a good cuppa to uplift and connect. That’s why we’re thrilled to be partnering with CHAS, a charity that brings care and joy to children with life-shortening conditions and their families.

“With every purchase from our ECHO line, we’ll donate £1 per kg directly to CHAS. This contribution will help the charity continue its incredible work, filling the lives of the children and families it supports with laughter, love and joy.

“I recently personally visited Rachel House, one of CHAS’s hospices in Kinross, which is near my own home, and was truly inspired. The staff create a haven of bright colours and joyful moments, even during challenging times. It’s a place where families can find comfort, connection, and extraordinary care.”

CHAS Senior Community Fundraiser, Sarah Dannfald said: “We are so grateful to Chris and the team at Red Box Coffee for choosing to support CHAS in such a unique way and we can’t wait to taste the ECHO coffee and continue this exciting partnership.

“Every penny donated via this coffee will go towards helping the many children with life-shortening conditions we support and their families right across Scotland.”

To find out more about the charity partnership and to buy the ECHO coffee please visit https://www.redboxcoffee.com/

Cancer Card’s Comfort Box receives boost from Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust

The Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is delighted to announce that Cancer Card, a Scottish charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cancer, has been awarded a grant of £2,500 to support their Comfort Box scheme.  

The initiative aims to ensure that every cancer patient, regardless of their financial circumstances, has access to essential items that can improve their quality of life during treatment.  

Cancer Card was founded in 2021 by stage four cancer patient Jen Hardy MBE and offers a comprehensive online directory of local and national cancer support services, making it a crucial resource for those navigating the complexities of cancer care in Scotland.   

The Comfort Box initiative, inspired by Scotland’s Baby Box, delivers packages containing items such as digital in-ear thermometers, wool blankets, and travel mugs to help cancer patients manage their treatment and stay comfortable.  

Conveying her thanks to the Trust for the donation, Jen Hardy said: “The generous grant from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is invaluable in supporting our mission to ensure that no one faces cancer alone.

“With these funds, we can provide 50 additional Comfort Boxes to newly diagnosed cancer patients, offering them not only practical items but also a sense of comfort, hope, and reassurance during their cancer journey.

“This support is crucial in helping patients feel cared for and empowered as they navigate the challenges of treatment.”  

In the first four months of 2024 alone, Cancer Card distributed over 400 Comfort Boxes to patients across Scotland. Each box costs the charity £50 to produce and they are distributed to patients free of charge.

The additional 50 boxes funded by Allied Vehicles will be delivered through partnerships with Maggie’s Centres and cancer treatment wards in hospitals, as well as being available directly through the Cancer Card website.   

Gerry Facenna, founder of Allied Vehicles, expressed his pride at the Cancer Card donation: “Cancer touches every family, and the work Cancer Card does is so important; not just in distributing these items through the Comfort Box programme, but also helping to provide emotional support to cancer patients during an extremely challenging time.

“We’re pleased to support to such a great cause.”

Wooden Spoon supports surf therapy charity with over £30,000 donation

Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, is proud to announce its support for The Wave Project and its innovative surf therapy programmes with a donation of over £30,000.

This significant grant will enable the pioneering initiative to continue its vital work across Dorset, Isle of Wight, Cornwall and Scotland, harnessing the transformative power of surfing to help young people suffering from mental health challenges build confidence, reduce anxiety and improve their overall well-being.

Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, is proud to announce its support for The Wave Project and its innovative surf therapy programmes with a donation of over £30,000.

This significant grant will enable the pioneering initiative to continue its vital work across Dorset, Isle of Wight, Cornwall and Scotland, harnessing the transformative power of surfing to help young people suffering from mental health challenges build confidence, reduce anxiety and improve their overall well-being.

The Wave Project has a proven track record of profoundly impacting the lives of young people through its NHS-recognised interventions. By providing a fun and supportive environment, the charity empowers participants to develop resilience, cultivate social skills and experience a sense of accomplishment. 

The Wooden Spoon’s funding has been instrumental in supporting this life-changing initiative across the UK, ensuring that  young people can access to this unique resource.

“We are thrilled to support The Wave Project and its expansion,” said Barry Monahan at Wooden Spoon.

“Mental health challenges among young people are a growing concern, and we believe that surf therapy offers a creative and effective way to address these issues. By supporting The Wave Project, we aim to make a positive impact on the lives of many young individuals in communities up and down the country.”

Ramon Van de Velde, Chief Executive Officer of The Wave Project said: “We are incredibly grateful for the Wooden Spoon’s generous support and belief in the transformative power of surf therapy.

“Time and again, we witness our interventions’ profound impact on children and young people – replacing anxiety with accomplishment, insecurity with confidence and new-found resilience.

“This funding will enable us to provide even more children and young people with the opportunity to participate in our programmes across the UK.”