Tag: Stepping Stones North Edinburgh

North Edinburgh projects hit the Lottery jackpot

Community groups across Edinburgh will be able to provide vital services and support for thousands of local people thanks to National Lottery funding announced today.

North Edinburgh projects have done particularly well in the latest round of funding. Both North Edinburgh Arts and Stepping Stones North Edinburgh are awarded six figure sums, while Muirhouse Millennium Centre, Heart of Newhaven, Blackhall Children’s Sports Committee, Ama-zing Harmonies and Granton Parish Church are among other local organisations to receive grants today.

The latest round of funding from The National Lottery Community Fund is shared amongst 384 projects across Scotland, sharing in £15,048,544. 

See below for a full list of projects

North Edinburgh Arts will use their award of £148,821 to continue their ‘Green Projects’ programme which provides green spaces for local people to come together whilst offering a range of volunteering opportunities and arts and garden activities for people of all ages to get involved in.

Valla Moodie, Green Projects Manager, North Edinburgh Arts said: “This funding will enable us to start an exciting phase of work as we move back into our refurbished and extended building after two years in temporary venues, setting up our new Community Shed workshop and redeveloping our community garden at the back of our venue.

“This support, given to our ‘Green Projects’, will allow us to continue to offer opportunities for our local community that improve their health and well-being whilst contributing to the enrichment of their neighbourhood, building local resilience to big issues and sharing and supporting them with actions that combat climate change.”

STEPPING STONES North Edinburgh receive £132,020 through the Improving Lives programme.

The group, based at Inchgarvie Court in West Pilton, will use the funding to continue delivering their Family Wellbeing project, supporting primary school children and their families by providing individual, group and equine mental health support in North West Edinburgh.

Thanks to an award of £126,671, Deaf Action will run a digital literacy programme to help deaf people across the city develop and improve their skillset.

Support will be provided through a series of one-to-one sessions and group work covering specific topics such as word processing, scam awareness, healthcare apps and video calling software.

Lauren McAnna, Community Services Manager, Deaf Action said: “Our Digital Inclusion Service will support deaf people living across Edinburgh to become digitally empowered, unlocking a world of information, resources and opportunities that will foster greater independence and help improve life outcomes.

“We will support deaf adults and older people who face significant barriers to communication and social inclusion and who are likely to be experiencing financial hardship and/or socioeconomic disadvantage. 

“By supporting deaf people to overcome barriers to digital literacy they can become more connected and active citizens, have increased independence and improved wellbeing in many aspects of their lives.”

An award of £19,929 to Survivors of Human Trafficking in Scotland means they can continue to identify more victims of human trafficking across the city.

Joy M Gillespie, CEO, Survivors of Human Trafficking said: “We will be able to work with our cross-sector partners to recover more victims of human trafficking in Edinburgh and provide vital prevention information to those most at risk. 

“We believe there is power in partnership and are grateful to The National Lottery Community Fund for partnering with us to help end end human trafficking in Scotland.”

Announcing the funding, Kate Still, Scotland Chair, The National Lottery Community Fund said: “This latest round of National Lottery funding will be distributed to groups across Edinburgh who are providing a range of essential services and support for thousands of local people, helping to make a real difference to their lives.

“As The National Lottery prepares to mark its 30th birthday later this year, today’s investment is a timely reminder of the difference that National Lottery players continue to make to communities across the country.”

The National Lottery Community Fund distributes funding on behalf of National Lottery players who raise more than £30 million each week for good causes throughout the UK.   

To find out more visit www.TNLCommunityFund.org.uk    

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Barratt Developments supports women and families with East of Scotland community fund

Three essential causes focused on improving the lives and wellbeing of women and families in the East of Scotland have benefited from donations from Barratt Developments’ community fund.

Barratt Developments, which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, currently donates £1,500 per month to local charities in its divisions as part of the homebuilder’s pledge to improve the quality of life of those living in the areas in which it operates.

To kick off the first quarter of the year, £1,500 was donated to Smart Works in January – an organisation that supports the most vulnerable women in society by providing interview clothing, styling services and professional interview coaching.

The women who come to Smart Works are often referred from Job Centres, mental health charities, women’s refuges, homeless shelters, the prison service, the care service and youth organisations. The essential resources provided by the charity not only allow 72% of its service users to gain employment each month, but also helps improve women’s overall confidence and self-esteem.

Rachel Shields, Fundraising and Partnerships Manager at Smart Works Scotland, said: “We’re so grateful for this donation. In the shadow of the cost-of-living crisis our service has never been more needed.

“In response to increasing demand, we are expanding our service in Scotland, and we just had our biggest month for appointments in March.

“With support like this from Barratt, we’re one step closer to achieving the ambition of our 3-year plan to double the number of women who access our transformative service by March 2025.”

In February, a further £1,500 was given to Stepping Stones North Edinburgh. 

Supporting pregnant women and young families, Stepping Stones provides a range of services focused on mental and emotional wellbeing, resilience building, reducing isolation and early learning services.

The donation has been used by the Stepping Stones team to improve play materials used by the organisation’s Steps to Grow group. Run on Wednesdays throughout the year at Granton Community Garden, the shared space provides children and their caregivers with the opportunity to socialise in a safe, secure and enriching environment.

Dee Reid, Early Learning Practitioner at Stepping Stones North Edinburgh, said: “Barratt’sgenerous donation has enabled us to purchase some much needed and durable equipment for our garden group to proceed in a safe and effective way, within our environment.

“This will hopefully benefit our families greatly, and they can continue to enjoy the equipment and new resources for years to come.”

To round off the quarter, Barratt Developments donated £1,500 in March to SiMBA (Simpson’s Memory Box Appeal).

The charity’s aim is to honour babies who have died, are stillborn or miscarried through supporting parents by gathering precious items in Memory Boxes, spending time with the baby in a comfortable Family Room, and providing the chance to remember and reflect at the Tree of Tranquillity.

The funds received from Barratt Developments will help SiMBA to continue to provide these services to families in the East of Scotland.

Vanessa Rhazali, Head of Fundraising and Communications at SiMBA, said: “We were delighted to receive a generous donation from Barratt Homes.

“The funds will go directly towards providing Memory Boxes to bereaved parents at their critical time of loss. The Memory Boxes offer comfort at one of the most traumatic times of their lives, while also holding cherished memories for the family to honour their baby for the years that follow.”

Alison Condie, Managing Director at Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes East Scotland, said: “Giving back to the communities in which we build has always been a priority for Barratt Developments, and we try our best to identify the charities most in need in our divisions with the help of our customers.

“This quarter we’ve donated to three fantastic causes that are supporting women and families in the East of Scotland. To be able to provide essential services in the current climate can be extremely challenging for charities.

“Hopefully, these donations will help them to continue the vital work they are doing in their local communities.”

For more information on Barratt Developments in the East of Scotland, visit:

https://www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/scotland-east/

All of Us: New film launched by Edinburgh campaign set up to support struggling families

A new film encouraging families in Edinburgh to access support and advice has been launched today (Wednesday, March 29) as part of a campaign run by NSPCC Scotland and the city’s Child Protection Committee.

The All of Us campaign, set up over two years ago, has involved organisations across the city working in partnership, including Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council, Stepping Stones North Edinburgh and Dads Rock, to highlight the different kinds of support available for families through events and workshops.

The film features two first-time mums who talk about the support they have received from Stepping Stones North Edinburgh and a father who says Dads Rock has helped him become ‘a more confident father’. 

As well as helping parents and carers get support and advice, the campaign lets people know where to turn if they have concerns about a child. It also raises awareness among communities and professionals about the early signs of child neglect and how to help families who are struggling.

About one third of calls made to the NSPCC Helpline are from people concerned a child might be experiencing neglect, which is when a young person’s basic needs are not being met. This includes the child not having warm, clean clothing; enough to eat or drink; receiving love and care; access to healthcare; and support with education.

Neglect can happen due to a variety of issues, including parents not having support, funds or skills, and having poor mental health.

Carla Malseed, NSPCC Scotland local campaigns manager, said: “We know that taking care of children isn’t always easy and we all need help from time to time.

“Parents might be struggling due to money, health issues or a whole range of factors outside their control and there’s help available across the city.

“The NSPCC Helpline is also there for anyone who wants advice or knows a family that needs support. It takes All of Us to raise happy, healthy children.”

A 25-year-old first-time mum, Shannon Borthwick, who attends Stepping Stones North Edinburgh – a charity that supports young parent families, said: “I don’t have the words to describe how much Stepping Stones has helped me, it’s just changed me as a person, it’s been so good for me.

“They’ve offered me such amazing opportunities. I’m incredibly grateful for all their help and support and I’m definitely finding parenting is easier since I reached out to them.”

24-year-old Marcia Cruz, who is also supported by the charity, added: “I’m also a first-time mum and I experience anxiety sometimes. There are times when it’s very difficult to know why your child behaves in a certain way.

“Having other people to talk with about things really helps and makes me feel much better. You realise you’re not the only person who feels a certain way and other mums are having similar experiences.”

Thomas Lynch, service manager at Dads Rock, said: “Parents really just appreciate having someone else to speak to and knowing they’re not alone and that other people are going through similar stuff.

“Nobody knows everything and it’s good to get a bit of information and support when you need it. I think people need to ask for help as soon as possible.”

Mark Cooper, a dad who has been supported by Dads Rock, said: “In the midst of a baby screaming that can be highly stressful.

“The support has helped me to become a more confident father because I know I’m not alone.”

Amanda Hatton, Chair of the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee, said:“The All of Us campaign has been successful in highlighting the very real issues around child neglect and the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee has been working with NSPCC Scotland to raise awareness.

“The holiday period can be a challenging time for families so it’s important that everyone is aware of the wide range of support available here in Edinburgh. The ongoing cost of living crisis has put even more pressures on families, and I would urge people to continue to seek support.”

The film was launched at 10am this morning: Wednesday, March 29.

For parenting advice and support visit NSPCC helpline or call 0808 800 5000, weekdays 8am to 10pm and weekends 9am to 6pm. People can also contact Social Care Direct on 0131 200 2324, their health visitor, GP or child’s school. If you’re concerned that a child is in immediate danger phone 999.

To find out more about the campaign visit: www.edinburgh.gov.uk/allofus

For further support and advice visit: www.edinburgh.gov.uk/support-families

To watch the video visit: NSPCC All of Us – YouTube

It takes ‘ALL OF US’ to raise happy, healthy children.

New group at Stepping Stones

STEPPING Stones North Edinburgh have a new group starting!

A great opportunity for parents to explore their interests, learn new skills, have fun and gain an SQA award.

Nurturing childcare provided by fully qualified early learning team available for each session.

Contact kerry@steppingstonesnorthedinburgh.co.uk for more info.

#newksills

Stepping Stones have flitted!

You can now find Stepping Stones at Inchgarvie Court, Ferry Road Drive. Our office number is still the same and we can be reached on 0131 551 1632.

We’re really excited to be in and we’re looking forward to welcoming families into our new space.

Alongside our office base we have a great playroom where under 5’s can access opportunities for play and learning and we’ve a group work room where parents can take part in fun and creative learning opportunities.

We can’t wait to get started with our first group in the building today at 1 pm! 😃

Stepping Stones Christmas Fayre

Stepping Stones North Edinburgh’s young parents are making Christmas crafts to sell in the local pantry, with all proceeds going back into local charities.

We are looking to compliment our home made crafts with some other Christmas gifts.

Do you make gift baskets, wreaths, beautiful Christmas decorations? If so could you donate an item to our Christmas fayre?

Your generosity has two benefits in that the proceeds will go to charity but it also allows local people to buy something lovely that they may not normally be able to afford.

We would really appreciate your support.

It would also be great to see people pop by the fayre on the 8th of December!

Invite to Stepping Stones North Edinburgh’s AGM next week

We are pleased to invite you to Stepping Stones North Edinburgh’s AGM on Monday 11 October 2021 at 12.30pm. 

This will take place via Zoom due to the ongoing Covid situation – for the link and further details please email: info@steppingstonesnorthedinburgh.co.uk

​We very much hope you can attend and would appreciate your RSVP no later than Wednesday 6th October.

Zoe Jordan

Business Administrator

Stepping Stones North Edinburgh

Join Stepping Stones at The Carnival of Venice!

(It’s in Granton Community Garden!)

Join Stepping Stones North Edinburgh next week for a lovely workshop as we venture to Venice.

@cynthiaws Starcatchers @starcatchersuk #Storytelling#SensoryPlay

Lead by Cynthia Cheung and Marion Geoffray, the workshop/outdoor activities involve multisensory creative play for the aged 2-5 to explore different festival traditions and stories.

In the workshop, we explore the children’s reaction and interest in the objects, the smell and the sound related to the festival. Meantime, the facilitators explore new ideas and skill involve the children’s behaviour and experiment with the artistic practice to develop the work-in-progress performance.

The workshop will also help Niroshini Thambar, the music designer, to explore insight and ideas to create a new interpretation soundtrack for the performance.

Funding to help mothers and infants at risk

STEPPING Stones North Edinburgh is among the charities providing counselling and peer and parental support to share funding to help improve the life chances and wellbeing of pregnant women, new mums and their families.

The Perinatal and Infant Mental Health fund will provide annual funding of up to £1 million to help third sector organisations deliver vital services.

Mental Health Minister Clare Haughey attended a virtual meeting with Amma Birth Companions to announce the successful organisations to receive a share of the funding.

The charity supports vulnerable women who would otherwise experience birth without a partner, including a number of women who are refugees, asylum seekers or living in poverty.

Ms Haughey said: “We want all mothers and their families to have access to good mental health care throughout pregnancy and during the postnatal period.

“The third sector provides an invaluable source of support and with the impacts of COVID-19, their work is more important now than ever. The fund will allow one-to-one support for organisations to help provide the care that women and their families need across Scotland.

“In our 2019-20 Programme for Government, we committed to support the third sector to deliver counselling and befriending services for women who might benefit from additional support in their community.

“Our delivery plan will help us continue to improve perinatal and infant mental health services, backed by £50 million and guided by the voices of women with lived experience.”

Sarah Zadik, Manager and Co-Founder at Amma Birth Companions said: “This funding will enable us to build on our existing work, address emerging needs, and reach even more women who would otherwise face pregnancy, birth, and early motherhood alone.

“We are delighted to receive this grant and grateful to the Scottish Government for recognising Amma’s role in providing vital support to vulnerable mothers who are at increased risk of experiencing perinatal mental health issues.”

Celia Tennant, Chief Executive at Inspiring Scotland said: “Inspiring Scotland is delighted to be supporting the Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Fund and today’s announcement.

“The commitment from Scottish Government to this vital area has been matched by the high number and calibre of proposals we received for funding . We are looking forward to working alongside these essential services over the next three years to support more families during the crucial perinatal period.”

The annual Perinatal and Infant Mental Health fund is designed to deliver key services and address gaps in provision.

The full list of organisations to receive funding can be found below:

Aberlour

Amma Birth Companions

Barnardo’s

Home Start Glasgow North and NL

Midlothian Sure Start

Stepping Stones North Ed

Home-Start East Highland / Caithness

PND Borders

Home-Start Dunfermline

Quarriers

CrossReach

Human Development Scotland

Action for Children

Healthy Valleys

Maternal Mental Health Scotland

More information can be found on Inspiring Scotland’s website, who will be administering the fund on behalf of the Scottish Government.