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.
Everyone is invited to LifeCare’s free Summer BBQ tomorrow – Friday 20th June, from 12 noon to 4pm at theLifeCare Hub, 2 Cheyne Street, Stockbridge.
Come along for a fantastic afternoon of free food, a bouncy castle, delicious cakes (thanks to Soderberg!) and a wide range of fun activities for all ages.
This special event is part of the Love the LifeCare Hub campaign, celebrating 50 years of LifeCare supporting local people – from young children to older adults – through affordable, accessible community services. The hub welcomes over 47,000 visits each year and runs more than 80 weekly classes and activities. It’s a place where people connect, share, and thrive.
As LifeCare faces rising running costs, donations are being welcomed to help safeguard this much-loved community space. Every pound helps ensure LifeCare can continue to offer vital support and joyful connections for generations to come.
So bring your friends, family, and neighbours for an afternoon of summer celebration – and help support one of Edinburgh’s most cherished community hubs.
LifeCare’s community hub has supported local people for half a century
LifeCare’s dedicated staff team with volunteers, room-bookers and hub-goers
“It’s there for everyone, young to old and the combination of everyone interacting together is just priceless”’
Opened as Stockbridge House in 1975, the LifeCare Hub on Cheyne Street has been a vital part of the local community for fifty years.
Originally established as a day centre for older people, it has evolved into a fully accessible, intergenerational community hub for everyone. A hugely popular big, bright and beautiful space, the hub hosts over 80 different weekly activities and welcomes over 47,000 visits a year from people who live across the city.
Run by local charity LifeCare Edinburgh, the organisation ensures all its services are affordable, or offered for free, so that everyone gets the chance to take part in community activities which help to keep them connected and support their health and wellbeing.
However, with continuing rising energy, staff and insurance costs the charity is bracing itself for an anticipated 30% increase in overall running costs this year creating a shortfall of around £30,000 this year alone.
The charity is launching an urgent appeal to help cover this shortfall and help sustain its hub and support for those that need it most.
Sarah Van Putten, CEO of LifeCare said:“The LifeCare hub is a really important place for local people. We are very proud of the support we offer and the accessible spaces we make available for everyone in our community. In an increasingly isolated world, where would people go if we didn’t exist?
“We want to be here for years to come, but we need support. No donation is too small, if we received £1 each time a person visited, we’d cover our shortfall and help sustain our future. Please give what you can.”
Lynne Herbert provides LifeCare’s free hairdressing for unpaid carers and runs her own yoga classes from the hub on a Monday and Thursday. Lynne said: “The LifeCare Hub is such an amazing place.
“From the moment you walk in, you feel welcomed and full of joy. It’s there for everyone, young to old and the combination of everyone interacting together is just priceless.”
LifeCare works alongside a dedicated group of volunteers who generously give their time to ensure the smooth running and a friendly greeting for visitors.
Shirley Galbraith is often one of the first happy faces visitors encounter when they enter the hub. Shirley said:“I feel that I am making a small difference to some peoples’ day by just chatting or helping them see what classes or services they could use. It makes me feel great!
“People should support the hub appeal to make sure that these services can continue – it is such a fantastic charity.
“The best thing is the variety of amazing services and classes that are offered. Supporting this appeal will ensure they are there for years to come!”
The charity is running an information morning from the LifeCare Hub on Monday 2nd June 11am-1pm. Come along to find out more and chat about how to get involved.
Everyone is also welcome at LifeCare’s Community BBQ on Friday 20th June 12noon – 4pm, with free food, bouncy castle and a whole range of activities for local people of all ages.
