Tag: One City Trust

Forever Edinburgh partners with One City Trust to deliver a new Give Back campaign for Edinburgh residents this winter

Forever Edinburgh has unveiled a new charity drive today, which will see it collaborate with local tourism businesses to provide hundreds of free experiences to those most in need this festive season and beyond.

‘Resident Rewards Edinburgh Gives Back’ is being delivered via Forever Edinburgh’s ‘Resident Rewards Edinburgh’ programme, local tourism businesses, and the One City Trust, an independent charity, which supports those living in poverty or facing social inequality in Edinburgh.  

Almost 500 leisure and cultural experiences will be available for One City Trust to distribute amongst its network of partners and community groups in areas such as homelessness, youth empowerment, mental health, older people, disability support, food poverty, refugees and migrants.  

The scale of the initiative has been made possible thanks to the generous donations of local businesses, who have match-funded experiences purchased by Forever Edinburgh’s Resident Rewards Edinburgh programme.  

This will include tickets to venues such as Edinburgh Castle, Gladstone’s Land, Go Ape Dalkeith and Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. Residents can also explore the rich stories of the capital with Mercat Tours or delve into the chilling tales at The Edinburgh Dungeon.  

Camera Obscura

Tastings and tours have been organised at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, Port of Leith Distillery and Lind & Lime Gin, along with a visit to the renowned Scotch Whisky Experience. Dining highlights include The Brasserie at The Scholar, Ten Hill Place Hotel, Fazenda Rodizio Bar and Grill and The Roseate Edinburgh.   

Forever Edinburgh’s Resident Rewards Edinburgh programme was launched in 2021 to reconnect residents with their city via a range of discounts, offers and exclusive experiences at attractions and venues throughout Edinburgh.  

Working with local businesses, it has helped to drive the local economy, encouraging residents to get out and explore new experiences, especially at non-peak times of the year and beyond the city centre.  

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge, said: “These fantastic donations are hugely welcome and will help nearly 500 people in the city to create lasting memories. Everyone should have the opportunity to experience being a tourist in their home city, and to enjoy the incredible events and attractions we have on offer.   

“Forever Edinburgh is on a drive to make sure the city’s tourism offering is truly inclusive and these contributions will be gifted to local people through our charity partners, adding to the 8,400 discounts and experiences exclusively for residents that have already been enjoyed. 

“It gives a chance to people who otherwise would not be able to experience these great attractions, and I’d like to extend my gratitude to all organisations who have stepped up to make the new initiative possible and who have exceeded our expectations. Their generosity is supporting the One City Trust in its efforts to tackle inequality across our communities.” 

Julie Trevisan-Hunter, Marketing Director at The Scotch Whisky Experience, added: “We have been working with Forever Edinburgh’s Resident Rewards Edinburgh since it launched in 2021.

“In that time, it has helped us to reach new audiences and attract people already living on our doorstep to come along to visit. We are delighted to support this campaign, knowing the impact it will have on those living in challenging circumstances and perhaps not able to enjoy some of Edinburgh’s iconic experiences as often as they would like.”    

Resident Rewards Edinburgh Gives Back launched on Wednesday with experiences open for use until spring 2025.  

Participating businesses and experiences include:  

  • Camera Obscura & World of Illusions 
  • Department of Magic  
  • Edinburgh Bus Tours 
  • Edinburgh Castle  
  • Edinburgh Marine Academy  
  • Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill  
  • Go Ape Dalkeith Country Park  
  • Gladstone’s Land  
  • Johnnie Walker Princes Street  
  • Lind & Lime Gin 
  • Mercat Tours  
  • Port of Leith Distillery  
  • The Scotch Whisky Experience  
  • Surgeons Quarter – Ten Hill Place Hotel 
  • The Roseate Edinburgh 
  • The Edinburgh Dungeon  
  • The Brasserie at The Scholar Hotel  

Registered Scottish charities or constituted community groups across Edinburgh can nominate individuals to receive a voucher. To speak to One City Trust about nominations, please contact: admin@onecitytrust.com.  

For further information about Resident Rewards Edinburgh, visit:

edinburgh.org/residentrewards.  

Exploring Cultural Heritage: Granton at the Seaside

Cultural heritage: Granton at the seaside

14th December from 10am – 1:30pm

Book here: https://eventbrite.co.uk/e/cultural-heritage-granton-at-the-seaside-tickets-1101784339619?aff=oddtdtcreator

Cultural heritage: Granton at the seaside

14th December – 10am – 1:30pm

This project, a collaboration between Universities in Edinburgh, Paris, and Madrid, in addition to granton:hub and Edinburgh World Heritage, explores:

-How we can balance new development with the protection of cultural heritage.

-How local people make cultural heritage.

-How this making can improve lives.

-How the edges of cities hold them together.

The days leading up to the event, a wide range of community representatives will share views on why and how these ‘elements’ are valuable – as heritage in Granton, but also to the city of Edinburgh and the world beyond.

In addition, school teachers, after-school providers, and workers in further and lifelong education, will also explore their contribution to local learning.

On Saturday 14th December, we shall be sharing our discussions with the general public through an exhibition.

We would like to invite anyone to come along and share their views.

Book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/cultural-heritage…

Lord Provost’s Burns Supper raises over £30,000 for the One City Trust

The OneCity Trust has received a Burns Night boost thanks to the Lord Provost’s annual fundraising supper which took place on Friday January 26.

The traditional Scottish dinner held at Prestonfield House raised a total of £30,500 in ticket sales and donations. This amount will be used by the OneCity Trust to support Scottish charitable organisations and constituted groups in their 2024 Main Grant Funding Programme which opens to applicants in March.

The funding theme for the coming year is ‘assisting people affected by the housing emergency’.

Over 200 guests attended the Lord Provost’s Burns Supper which featured an excellent array of entertainment. This included a rousing ‘Address to the Haggis’ from James Macsween (Managing Director of Macsween of Edinburgh – Haggis Producers) followed by a poignant and fascinating ‘Immortal Memory’ from Professor Sir Geoff Palmer, culminating in a boisterous ‘Toast tae the Lassies’ from Cameron Goodall and a hilarious ‘Reply fae the Lassies’ from comedian Janey Godley.

Guests were also treated to a musical rendition of Burns songs from multi-award-winning Scots musician Robyn Stapleton.



The Lord Provost and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge, said: “I’m delighted that the annual Burns Supper has raised much needed funds for the One City Trust which will be distributed as grants to projects across our city.

“As Lord Provost my duty is first and foremost to the people of Edinburgh and I am committed to helping them in any way that I am able. I look forward to seeing the One City Trust continue its work in the year ahead it is my sincere hope that we will be able to make a strong and lasting difference for our most vulnerable residents.

“I want to sincerely thank all colleagues involved in organising this year’s event, particularly James Thomson OBE and his staff at Prestonfield House, our Sponsors, Macsween of Edinburgh – Haggis Producers, Bentley Edinburgh, Whyte & Mackay, Tunnocks and Turkish Airlines. 

“My special thanks must go to all my guests for attending and supporting the event, and every single person who donated and took part in the fundraising activities, making the night such a resounding success.”

About the OneCity Trust:

The mission of the One City Trust is to fight inequality and exclusion in the City of Edinburgh. It is an independent charity which is uniquely linked to the city.

The Trust was established in 2003 in response to the One City report of the Lord Provost’s Commission on Social Exclusion. It uses the idea of a ‘community foundation’ to give people and organisations a means to reach across the divides of the city and support those who are excluded from the community. A permanent endowment was established with a donation from the City of Edinburgh Council, which the Trust has added to over the years, and continues to build.

In 2012 with the creation of the ‘Lord Provost’s Rapid Action Fund’ the Trust acquired the ability to raise funds specifically for the purpose of giving out grants (rather than rely solely on the interest from the Trust).

Further information on the 2024 Grants Programme, or to make a donation, go to the One City Trust website.

Granton Goes Greener: Free workshops

We are very excited to have an evening full of exciting FREE workshops including macrame projects and some woodwork at Granton Parish Church, next Friday-26/01 between 4 – 6pm💚💚💚.

We have managed to secure a small community grant-Creative Chest funded by Urban Union through the One City Trust, The City of Edinburgh Council and North Edinburgh Arts🙏🙏🙏

During the creative evening, you will be able to complete a small macrame project or make your own bird feeder or a spice rack.

Any questions-email: anna@grantongoesgreener.org.uk

Lord Provost visits Edinburgh School Uniform Bank

CHARITY LAUNCHES WINTER WARMERS APPEAL

The Lord Provost and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge, today (October 24) visited the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank (ESUB) in Granton.

After meeting some of ESUB’s staff and volunteers, the Lord Provost helped to pack a bag of new uniform for a child who has been referred to the organisation.

ESUB provides school uniform to children who are facing hardship so that they can attend school without the stigma of wearing the ‘wrong’ clothes, as well as giving them the chance to take part in sports and social activities.

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge said: “It was a real pleasure today to visit the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank. Through meeting some of the staff and volunteers I got an insight into the fantastic and essential work they carry out in communities across the city.

“However, it is a shame that in the year 2023 that organisations like this are still necessary to properly clothe our children and have them ready for school.

“I’m proud that the One City Trust can support organisations like ESUB, and I have no doubt that they will continue to make sure that no child ever wants for school clothes in Edinburgh. They have my full support and I look forward to working with them further.”

Trustee of the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank, Julia Grindley said: “For over eight years, Edinburgh School Uniform Bank has boosted the wellbeing and inclusion of the city’s most disadvantaged children and young people by ensuring that they can participate fully in all school activities with confidence, regardless of their family’s circumstances. We are delighted to show the Lord Provost around today.

“We work closely with over 100 schools and many other professional partners to provide new school uniforms, footwear, and other essentials to thousands of children every year. Many families are in dire straits, and children are going without. The cost-of-living crisis is making it increasingly difficult to keep up with demand for our services, and we need the support of the whole community, to avoid us turning families away.

“Today we are launching our Winter Warmers appeal. We hope that people and businesses all over Edinburgh will do what they can to make sure that every child can stay cosy and go to school with their head held high this winter.”

Lord Provost reflects on twenty years of the One City Trust

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and President of the One City Trust (OCT), Robert Aldridge, looks back on two decades of the Trust and sets his sights on the future:

I am immensely proud of the work that the OCT has undertaken in the last twenty years. Since the Trust was established in 2003, we have delivered over £1.3m of grants to 265 projects across the Capital whilst promoting community benefits and social value amongst our city’s business and private sector community.

Over the years, we have enjoyed the support of notable ambassadors and supporters. These include Sir Ian Rankin, Irvine Welsh, Alexander McCall Smith, Sara Sheridan, Nadine Aisha Jassat and Anne Hamilton; who last year collaborated to produce ‘The People’s City’, a celebration of Edinburgh’s literary heritage in aid of the Trust.

Unfortunately, we still face major challenges in the fight against poverty, inequality, and social exclusion across the city. The pandemic also cast these into sharp light and made us consider how we could reach and help our citizens in different ways.

Now, perhaps more than ever, the OCT and the organisations it supports are key to supporting our communities as we move forward. From Edinburgh Interfaith Association breaking down cultural barriers, to Fresh Start Pantry providing low-cost nutritious and healthy food to tackle holiday hunger and many more we are committed to helping our residents through these difficult times.  

I would encourage anyone reading this to consider the ways that they can contribute whether that be through donations, community benefit partnerships, volunteering or spreading the word of the Trust and its affiliates.

I’d like to thank everyone who has supported and been involved in the activities of the OCT in the last twenty years.

Last Friday (August 25) it was a real privilege to host a civic reception at the City Chambers to mark twenty years since the establishment of the OCT. The event was attended by former Lord Provosts of the City of Edinburgh, partner organisations, key supporters, and other distinguished guests.

We were lucky enough to hear from a range of truly inspiring speakers who have been involved in the Trust over the years, and those who continue to undertake excellent work in the fight against poverty, inequality, and social exclusion here in Edinburgh.

We heard a powerful speech from representatives of Jock Tamson’s Gairden at Duddingston Loch who are dedicated to providing an inclusive community garden that is open to all. Indeed, the famous phrase ‘We’re a’ Jock Tamson’s bairns’ perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the OCT and its goals.

We also heard about the work of the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank who make sure our schoolchildren are properly clothed regardless of circumstances. I continue to be inspired by the ways in which the Capital’s community groups look out for one another in these difficult times. Groups like these truly reflects the very best qualities of the individuals who make up our city.

Another highlight of the evening was hearing from Dr Jim McCormick, Chief Executive of the Robertson Trust, and former Chair of the Edinburgh Poverty Commission (2018-2020). This reminded us to remember the need for humanity, respect, and decency at the heart of every experience of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. Each individual that we can help in Edinburgh is an important victory.

I’d also like to thank our partners Travis Perkins and the Edinburgh International Conference Centre for generously sponsoring the reception.

As Lord Provost my duty is first and foremost to the people of Edinburgh and I am committed to helping them in any way that I am able. I look forward to seeing the Trust continue its work in the next twenty years and beyond, and it is my sincere hope that we will be able to make a strong and lasting difference for our most vulnerable residents.

One City Trust turns twenty

A celebratory reception to mark the One City Trust’s (OCT) 20th Anniversary was held at the City Chambers on Friday.

The event, hosted by the Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge, showcased the work of the Trust in the past two decades, and looked ahead to the challenges of the future.

The Trust was established in 2003 in response to the One City report of the Lord Provost’s Commission on Social Exclusion. It engages the idea of a ‘community foundation’ to give people and organisations a means to reach across the divides of the city and support those who are excluded from the community.

A permanent endowment was established with a donation from the City of Edinburgh Council, which the Trust has added to over the years, and continues to build.

In 2012 with the creation of the ‘Lord Provost’s Rapid Action Fund’ the Trust acquired the ability to raise funds specifically for the purpose of administering grants to projects and organisations across the city. 

The evening began with an exhibition of the Trust’s archive, showcasing historic documents, photos, and other objects. This was followed by speeches and roundtable discussions focussed on the Trust’s work since 2003 in the context of the two poverty commissions which have reported on the situation in Edinburgh.

The celebratory reception concluded events with a keynote speech from the Lord Provost and President of the OCT, followed by a short film on the Trust’s work and a musical accompaniment.

The One City Trust is seeking donations to continue its work fighting poverty, inequality, and social exclusion in Edinburgh. Donations can be made online via the Trust’s webpage.  

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge said: “I am immensely proud of the work that the One City Trust has undertaken in the last twenty years.

“To date, we have delivered over £1.3m of grants to 265 projects across the Capital whilst promoting community benefits and social value amongst our city’s business and private sector community.

“I have no doubt that these efforts have made a positive difference to the lives of our residents. Over the years we have been able to support organisations doing truly amazing work across our communities.

“From Edinburgh Interfaith Association breaking down cultural barriers, to Fresh Start Pantry providing low-cost nutritious and healthy food to tackle holiday hunger for vulnerable families during school holidays, to the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank making sure our schoolchildren are properly clothed, I continue to be inspired by the ways in which the Capital’s community groups look out for one another in these difficult times. This truly reflects the very best qualities of the individuals who make up our city.

“Unfortunately, we still face major challenges in the areas of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion across the city. The pandemic also cast these into sharp light and made us consider how we could reach and help our citizens in different ways.

“Now, perhaps more than ever, the One City Trust and the organisations it supports are key to supporting our communities as we move forward. I would encourage anyone reading this to consider the ways that they can contribute whether that be through donations, community benefit partnerships, volunteering or spreading the word of the Trust and its affiliates.

“As Lord Provost my duty is first and foremost to the people of Edinburgh and I am committed to helping them in any way that I am able. I look forward to seeing the One City Trust continue its work in the next twenty years and beyond, and it is my sincere hope that we will be able to make a strong and lasting difference for our most vulnerable residents.”

Irvine Welsh, celebrated Edinburgh author, and Ambassador of the One City Trust said: “I’ve been involved with the One City Trust for almost two decades. Edinburgh and the wider world have undergone significant changes in this period, resulting in poverty, inequality, and social exclusion becoming even more acute. 

“Edinburgh is a city blighted by geographical inequality, great wealth and abject poverty coexisting side by side. This wealth and international acclaim that the city commands does not translate to many communities who have been left behind in an era characterised by public austerity and private profit, and at the expense of key public services. This tale of two cities that is played out not just in Edinburgh but across the country. 

“This is obviously something that is in dire need of rebalancing. In the meantime, ventures like the One City Trust continue to strive to offer a way for individuals in adverse socioeconomic conditions to find a way to express themselves through arts and culture. This in turn can give them the confidence to articulate their individual needs, those of their communities and consequently inspire them to go about meeting them.

“I am proud to support the One City Trust and I hope that in the next twenty years it will continue to inspire people to question the world we find ourselves in, and to take the necessary action to fight poverty, inequality and social exclusion here in the capital of Scotland.”

Sir Ian Rankin, celebrated Edinburgh author, and Ambassador of the One City Trust said: “It has been an honour as well as a pleasure to have been associated with One City Trust for the past twenty years. 

“It continues to do valuable work in Edinburgh’s local and underprivileged communities – here’s to the next twenty years!”

An Art Strategy for Pennywell Living

Regeneration specialist Urban Union and the city council have appointed North Edinburgh Arts to deliver an engaging Art Strategy as part of its work at the Pennywell Living development in Edinburgh.

The strategy has community engagement at its core and will deliver three distinct outcomes: inspiring hoarding panels, a Creative Community Chest and new Pennywell Heritage/Art Trail.

Lead Artist Ross Macrae will kick start the strategy alongside a series of invited guests, who will create 10 engaging panels incorporating wayfinding and local icons to the existing hoarding around the Pennywell development.

A key strand of the strategy is community engagement and local young people will have the opportunity to attend masterclass sessions with Ross and the guest artists where they will demonstrate skills and techniques in spray painting and other mediums. The workshops and artwork creation have been running since April and are expected to continue into August.

With £3,000 available through the Creative Community Chest for micro projects across the North Edinburgh Arts membership area, local charities and constituted groups will also be able to apply for one of 10 grants of up to £300 which will be used to deliver creative content for the local community. The Creative Community Chest will be managed by the One City Trust and open over the summer.

The final element will be the introduction of a heritage/art trail for Pennywell. Appointed through an open call, the selected artist will create and deliver six permanent artworks in and around the Pennywell area.

With the aim of enhancing local pride, the artworks will become meeting points, way finders, conversation starters and points of connection. Local residents are invited to get involved in the process which will commence in September 2022 and over the following 12 months will include 24 engagement activities for all ages, culminating in the installation of the art in August 2023.

Neil McKay, managing director, Urban Union, said: “We have been an active member of the local community for the last eight years and we are pleased that our public art strategy for Pennywell is now in place. The regeneration that has already taken place in the area will only be further complemented and enhanced by these plans which will bring wider benefits.

“The key to making these three distinct programmes a success will be the involvement of the local community. The art which will be created needs to reflect the rich social heritage of the area and the character of the communities who live and work in and around the Pennywell area.

“We look forward to continuing our engagement with the local community as our Phase 3 works progress and to seeing their ideas come to life through the unique opportunity that our Arts Strategy will provide.”

Councillor Jane Meagher, housing, homelessness and fair work convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, added: “There is going to be so much to enjoy in North Edinburgh this summer. This programme is a real celebration of local people and all of the regeneration which has taken place.

“We’ve supported significant investment in Pennywell and Muirhouse, with new green spaces and a civic heart, brilliant sport and culture on the doorstep and plans for new community hub – plus of course hundreds of much needed, quality, affordable and social homes. It’s one of our 20 minute neighbourhood projects and you really can see the area flourishing.

“What’s been so special throughout this redevelopment is that residents have been really involved, with projects empowering people to reconnect with their area and initiatives to welcome new neighbours in. North Edinburgh Arts has been central to this and will now help us to bring permanent artworks to the area, which local people will also shape. We can’t wait to see the entries.”

Kate Wimpress, director, North Edinburgh Arts, commented: “North Edinburgh Arts has worked with Urban Union over the last eight years bringing creativity and community to each stage of the development. This has ranged from one off craft workshops, and arts activities for young people, to the development of temporary play spaces, and the permanent, much loved, Butterfly Garden on Pennywell Road.

“With support from Urban Union and the City of Edinburgh Council this current set of projects allow us to tap into local interests, expertise and enthusiasm once again and we look forward to sharing the results and the pride of our place with local residents, neighbours and visitors alike.”

Urban Union is developing 134 new homes and apartments as part of Phase 3 works at Pennywell Living and has been working in conjunction with the City of Edinburgh Council since 2014 to regenerate Pennywell, creating a vibrant residential area.

Keep on runnning!

Passed by Buzz Lightyear and friends … but four years on, Donald’s up for marathon challenge again!

Edinburgh Leisure Board member, Councillor Donald Wilson is running the Virgin Money London Marathon for the fourth time on 22 April 2018.  Continue reading Keep on runnning!