LifeCare is delighted to host a special St Andrew’s Day storytelling celebration led by storyteller Fergus. Families are invited to drop in for a fun-filled morning of stories, dancing, and crafts—perfect for children aged 3–10.
The free event will take place on Saturday, 29 November at 11am, with guests encouraged to wear something tartan to join in the spirit of the day.
This fantastic storytelling adventure is supported by the Scottish International Storytelling Festival’s Big Scottish Story Ripple initiative, organised by Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland (TRACS) and supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum.
No booking required just come along to the Lthe LifeCare Hub, 2 Cheyne Street, Edinburgh, EH4 1JB
“Community support is the secret ingredient” – 60% of LifeCare’s meals are free for the growing numbers of local older people struggling on a low income
LifeCare Edinburgh’s Meals on Wheels service is celebrating its 5th birthday — a remarkable milestone in local community care. Since launching in the midst of the pandemic in 2020, the charity has freshly prepared and delivered more than 42,000 hot, two-course meals to over 300 older people across north Edinburgh and Leith.
Thanks to the generosity of funders and donors, 60% of all meals – over 29,000 in total – have been delivered completely free of charge to older people living on low incomes. This fundraising support has ensured that thousands of older residents have had access not only to nutritious, hot meals, but also to vital social connection and care.
Prepared fresh each day by LifeCare’s café team and delivered by kind-hearted drivers, the service has become a true lifeline for many older residents. With more than 75% of clients living alone, that friendly knock on the door and a familiar face can be as uplifting as the hot meal itself.
The service also acts as an important early warning system — if someone doesn’t answer the door or seems unwell, LifeCare’s team can quickly check in and ensure further support is put in place.
Chef Tony, from LifeCare’s community café, CafeLife, said: “Every meal we send out is made with care, because we know it’s not just food – it’s comfort and company too.
“The team in the kitchen puts their heart into making sure every meal is tasty, nourishing, and feels like something special arriving at the door. Community support is the secret ingredient, and if local people and businesses can continue to give generously to support us, it will help keep our wheels in motion for the years ahead.”
A Lifeline with a Long History
Sarah van Putten, CEO of LifeCare Edinburgh said.“It’s a huge moment of pride for us. Our history of support goes back a long way – LifeCare actually predates the NHS, and as a charity we first offered Meals on Wheels almost a century ago.The needs we were meeting back in the 1940s – tackling isolation, nutritional concerns, and low incomes – are still very real today.
“When the pandemic hit, many of our older clients were shielding, and as a team we worked hard to relaunch the service to reach those most in need.
“Five years on, we’ve delivered more than 42,000 hot meals, and it’s become a true community lifeline. It shows what’s possible when people come together to care for one another.”
John, 77, receives free Meals on Wheels twice a week, he said:“I realised I just couldn’t do as much for myself as I could a few years ago. I’ve always been independent despite my disability, but getting older makes things harder. Everyone at LifeCare is marvellous — they always find a way to help.
“I get Meals on Wheels twice a week — kindness delivered to my door! The food is amazing, and the drivers are great company. LifeCare’s support has changed my life. I don’t feel isolated anymore, and I know they’re always there if I need them.
“To anyone thinking about using or supporting LifeCare — don’t wait. It’s the best thing you’ll ever do!”
LifeCare’s ability to deliver this life-changing service depends on the generosity of its funders and supporters.
The ScottishPower Foundation has played a vital role over the past two years, helping to bring 6,000 free, freshly prepared meals to people’s doors this year — meeting nearly half of all requests for support across the last 12-months.
Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said: “We know that older people in communities across the country are facing significant challenges as we head into the winter months – from nutritional needs to social isolation. The Meals on Wheels service by LifeCare is a lifeline, addressing these critical issues with compassion.
“Over the past two years, our partnership with the charity has made a real difference. They are providing delicious hot meals and also social connection with care. We’re proud to have played a role in supporting LifeCare Edinburgh’s essential services.”
Share the Warmth This Winter
As the colder months draw in, LifeCare is inviting the local community to help spread a little Christmas cheer by supporting its Meals on Wheels service.
This festive season, the charity will be delivering hundreds of traditional Christmas meals with all the trimmings, alongside its regular daily service bringing freshly prepared, hot nourishing meals to older people across the city.
With each meal service costing £7.50 to prepare and deliver, LifeCare relies on the generosity of local people and businesses to help meet growing demand throughout the winter months.
A small donation can make a big difference — ensuring that older residents continue to enjoy warm meals, friendly visits, and vital social connection all season long.
Donations can be made online at www.lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk by calling 0131 343 0940, or in person at LifeCare’s community hub and CaféLife on Cheyne Street, Stockbridge.
Almost a third (28 per cent) of people in Scotland still don’t seek professional advice or support when struggling to pay their energy bills, despite the support available.
Reasons for this include belief that they won’t qualify (34 per cent), stigma or embarrassment (31 per cent) or due to a lack of information (27 per cent)
In fact, 53 per cent agree they find it difficult to talk about struggling to pay their energy bills, rising from 33 per cent last year.
A new poll, commissioned by British Gas as part of its independent charitable trust British Gas Energy Trust (The Trust), found gas and electric costs are the most challenging for 24 per cent, followed by council tax (18 per cent) and mortgage payments (13 per cent).
It comes as British Gas and British Gas Energy Trust have partnered with the Post Office and 20 local charities to offer 120 free drop-in events across Britain over the next 12 months.
These events give people the chance to get practical, face-to-face support on budget planning, managing energy debt, applying for debt write-off grants, and accessing simple energy-saving measures to help keep homes warmer and bills lower.
Tracey Talbot, Interim Chief Executive Officer, at British Gas Energy Trust, said: “We know that managing household budgets remains a real challenge for many, with the cost of living putting pressure on people across the country. And although we’re starting to see more people coming forward to seek support, we recognise that doing so can still feel difficult.
“That’s why we’ve partnered with the Post Office and trusted local charities to bring support into communities across Britain – including Scotland.
These drop-in sessions provide practical advice on budgeting, managing bills, and accessing grants, all in a friendly and approachable setting. Our Individuals and Families Fund and Energy Support Fund are also now open to both British Gas customers and those with other suppliers – whether you’re on a prepayment meter or a credit account. If you need support, you can find out more and apply through the British Gas Energy Trust website.
“No one should feel alone in this – and we want people to know that help is not only available, but designed to work for them, wherever they are in life.”
According to the research, for those who are willing to seek support, their first ports of call are either friends and family (38 per cent) or energy provider payment plans (29 per cent).
It also found 60 per cent believe advice from a trusted local money and energy advice charity would also make it much easier for them to get the support they need during difficult times.
With 50 per cent likely to go straight to their energy provider in this situation.
63 per cent believe there should be more Government and charity programmes to help people manage rising energy costs.
Christina King, Customer Vulnerability Manager at British Gas, said: “It’s encouraging to see more people speaking to their energy provider when they’re finding things tough. That first conversation can make a real difference and there are many ways we can help.
“Our British Gas advisors will be available at local pop-up events to offer practical, face-to-face guidance – and these sessions are just one of the ways we’re helping customers during the upcoming winter. We committed £140 million to help customers since 2021 with their energy bills, the biggest voluntary support package from an energy company.
“Through the British Gas Energy Trust, we’re providing access to grants, funding, and free advice services alongside additional support like matched debt repayments and non-repayable credit for those in serious difficulty.”
The drop-in events are taking place in Edinburgh in partnership with Citizens Advice Edinburgh at LifeCare Edinburgh on 11th & 12th November and then at Citizens Advice Edinburgh on 18th & 19th of November.
Are You Feeling Christmassy Yet? Why not book your space to sell your crafts and wares, or bring your wee one to visit Santa at the LifeCare Christmas Fair on Saturday 6th December, 11am–3pm! There’ll be lots of festive stalls, baking, and plenty of Christmas cheer to go around.
As one happy visitor said, “The best Santa we’ve ever been to!”
And don’t forget — there are still a few spaces left for our renowned Christmas Lunches, featuring trifles from cult bakery Lannan. Only £18 per person, BYO, with a vegetarian option available. Dates still available: 10th, 18th & 19th December.
Book your stall, Santa visit, or lunch today! Call 0131 343 0940 or visit reception to secure your spot for stalls and lunches (use the link above to book in to see the man in the red suit). Payment is required at the time of booking.
LifeCare Edinburgh’s Sweet Partnership Afternoon Tea with Lannan proved a resounding success, raising nearly £3,000 to support LifeCare’s lifeline community services for older people across the city.
Hosted in LifeCare’s welcoming Hub on Cheyne Street, the sold-out event treated guests to a truly memorable afternoon of exquisite Lannan cakes, community connection, and live piano music – all in aid of LifeCare’s mission to deliver care, connection, and companionship to older people across Edinburgh.
Following the success of this first collaboration, LifeCare and Lannan are delighted to announce that their Sweet Partnership will continue, with two Afternoon Teas planned for 2026.
To make the festive season even sweeter, Lannan will also be donating their beautifully made traditional trifles for LifeCare’s Community Christmas Lunches – a delicious gesture that’s sure to spread joy across Edinburgh this December.
Darcie Maher of Lannan, said:“It’s been such a pleasure to partner with LifeCare. This was our first event of its kind, and we couldn’t have chosen a better partner.
“We’ve had the privilege of seeing and hearing about the incredible work they do firsthand, and we’re so pleased to have been able to contribute. We look forward to building on this success and continuing to make a difference, one slice at a time!”
Claire Montgomery, LifeCare’s Fundraising Manager, added:“We’re over the moon with the success of this first Sweet Partnership Afternoon Tea with Lannan.
“The generosity of everyone involved – from our guests and volunteers to the wonderful team at Lannan – has helped raise essential funds and awareness for our work. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back next year for not one, but two, tasty events – and book now for those Christmas trifles!”
Tickets for LifeCare’s upcoming Community Christmas Lunches on the 9th, 10th, 18th and 19th of December are now available – but spaces are limited, so book early while you still can!
£18 pp including a donation towards spreading Christmas Cheer.
Broughton St Mary’s Parish Church will host a special Organ Recital on Friday, 17 October 2025, at 7:00 pm, honouring the extraordinary life and legacy of Nancy Blaik, MBE, a pioneering charity volunteer and co-founder of Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).
Nancy Blaik, MBE (1936–2025), was a tireless Edinburgh charity volunteer and founding force behind CHAS.Blind from childhood and inspired by the needs of her so Daniel, Nancy dedicated her life to creating Scotland’s first children’s hospice, Rachel House in Kinross, which opened in 1996.
Awarded the MBE in 1997, Nancy’s legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and determination—ensuring that no family in Scotland faces the death of their child alone. She died from pneumonia, after living her final years with the progressive neurodegenerative disorder, Lewy Body Dementia.
The recital will feature renowned organist Dr John Kitchen, MBE – Edinburgh City Organist, University of Edinburgh scholar, and internationally recognised performer and recording artist.
Dr Kitchen will present a programme of organ music celebrating the power of music to inspire and uplift, while raising vital support for CHAS and LifeCare – a local charity which provides vital support to people within the local community.
Rev. Laurene M. Lafontaine, Minister, Broughton St Mary’s Parish Church said: “It is a privilege for Broughton St Mary’s to host this special recital in honour of Nancy Blaik, whose life was a remarkable witness to courage, compassion, and service.
“This evening will be both a celebration of music and a reminder of the power of community to carry forward her legacy of care for children, families, and neighbours in need.”
Sarah Dannfald, Senior Community Fundraiser, CHAS: “We are so thrilled to have the support of Broughton St Marys Parish Church, while celebrating the remarkable lady that was one of our Founders.
“Nancy was and still is an inspiration to so many and it is wonderful to see her legacy continuing, helping CHAS flourish and support children and their families across Scotland, when they need it most.”
Sarah van Putten LifeCare CEO said “We are deeply grateful to be a beneficiary of this event alongside CHAS.
Nancy’s story embodies the very spirit of care and resilience that inspires our work with older people and families here in Edinburgh.
“This recital is not only a tribute to her, but also a vital source of support for those who rely on LifeCare’s services every day.”
Event Details
Benefit Organ Recital in Honour of Nancy Blaik, MBE Date: Friday, 17 October 2025 Time: 7:00 pm Location: Broughton St Mary’s Parish Church, 12 Bellevue Crescent, Edinburgh Suggested donation: £10–15 (or more at your discretion) at the event or via the Broughton St. Mary’s Website Beneficiaries: CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland) (Registered charity no SC019724) and LifeCare, Edinburgh (Registered charity no SC012641)
Because supporting the community should taste this good!
Local charity, LifeCare Edinburgh is thrilled to announce a brand-new Sweet Partnership Afternoon Tea in collaboration with one of the city’s most celebrated bakeries, Lannan.
Taking place on Monday 20th October at 3:30pm this special event offers guests the rare opportunity to savour Lannan’s exquisite cakes and pastries in comfort – all while supporting LifeCare’s vital community services for older people across Edinburgh.
Sarah van Putten, Chief Executive of LifeCare Edinburgh, said: “This event is a chance to enjoy Lannan’s truly special famous treats without the wait – and, even more importantly, to know that every slice and every sip is helping to support older people in our community.
“LifeCare has been providing care, connection, and companionship across Edinburgh for over 80 years. Partnerships like this allow us to continue that work, reach more people, and remind our city that community care is something we can all be part of.”
Darcie Maher of Lannan said “We’ve always been humbled by the incredible support and loyalty from our customers in our local community. Partnering with LifeCare Edinburgh felt like the perfect way to give something back.
We’re excited to bring our bakes to this special Afternoon Tea, knowing that together, we’re not only creating a delicious experience but also raising vital funds to support some of the city’s most vulnerable people. Cake really can bring people together, and this time it’s for an important cause.”
Spaces are limited for this special fundraising event, and early booking is strongly advised. Tickets go on sale on Sunday (28th September), priced at £50 per person.
Guests are invited to bring their own drinks (BYO), and every penny raised will support LifeCare’s vital services — from delivering freshly prepared meals, to offering companionship, classes, and care for older people across Edinburgh.
Come and meet LifeCare’s friendly team at Stockbridge Market tomorrow (Sunday 24th August)!
Learn about the support we offer local older people and unpaid carers, the wide range of weekly activities for all ages, and our Love the LifeCare Hub campaign – including a unique chance to sponsor a space at the heart of the community.
LifeCare, the Edinburgh-based charity supporting local older people, is proud to announce a new free event in partnership with legal firm Balfour+Manson LLP:
What to Do If You Can’t Do It Yourself – An Introduction to Client Services
Taking place next week at 3pm on Wednesday 27th August in LifeCare’s fully accessible community café, CaféLife (2 Cheyne Street, EH4 1JB), this informative and friendly session will introduce attendees to the support available when managing daily life becomes more challenging.
The event will showcase Client Support Services – a person-centred approach designed to support older and vulnerable individuals in staying safe, secure, and well cared for. From managing finances and understanding powers of attorney to arranging practical help at home, the service is designed to help people live as independently and comfortably as possible.
Attendees will hear directly from Susan Russell, Client Support Manager at Balfour+Manson, and Catriona Torrance, Partner in the firm’s Private Client Team.
Susan brings a wealth of experience from her background in social work, working closely with individuals to ensure the right help is in place and stays in place.
Catriona is highly experienced in supporting clients with wills, powers of attorney, and planning for the future.
Catriona Torrance, Private Client Partner, said: “Helping clients plan for the future is about more than legal documents — it’s about giving them confidence and control during uncertain times.
“We are really proud to be partnering with LifeCare to run this important event, we aim to empower older people and their families to make informed decisions that protect their wishes and wellbeing for years to come.”
Susan Russell, Private Client Support Manager, said: “What I find most rewarding is seeing the relief and reassurance on our clients’ faces when they realise they’re not alone in managing these challenging transitions.
“Our role is about more than paperwork and services — it’s about supporting people’s dignity and peace of mind, helping them feel secure in their independence and cared for every step of the way.”
This relaxed and welcoming session is ideal for older individuals, their families, and carers who want to understand the practical steps and support available during later life transitions.
The event is free to attend, and complimentary tea and coffee will be served. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about LifeCare’s vital community services.
To secure a place, attendees are encouraged to register on Eventbrite or call the friendly LifeCare team on 0131 343 0940.
Following a sell-out success in March, local charity LifeCare Edinburgh is delighted to announce the return of its popular Afternoon Tea at the LifeCare Hub on Cheyne Street on Thursday 4th September.
Guests can look forward to a delicious spread of homemade cakes, savoury treats, and endless cups of tea and coffee, all served in the heart of one of Edinburgh’s most loved community spaces. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with friends, family, or neighbours – all while supporting a fantastic local cause.
But this event is more than just tea and treats – every ticket sold will directly support LifeCare’s urgent fundraising appeal to keep the Hub running. With rapidly rising costs, the charity is calling on the community to help protect the services so many people rely on.
Sarah Van Putten, CEO of LifeCare said: “The LifeCare Hub is a lifeline for thousands across the city. Whether it’s classes for isolated older adults, support for unpaid carers, or just a welcoming place to connect, the Hub brings people together.
“This Afternoon Tea is a chance to enjoy a lovely afternoon whilst helping us secure the Hub’s future.”
The Hub, which first opened in 1975 as ‘Stockbridge House’, now welcomes over 47,000 visits a year, offering 80+ weekly activities for all ages. As a charity, LifeCare works hard to ensure that its services are affordable or free, so no one is left out.
