A group of employees from Amazon’s fulfilment centre have visited seven schools across Dunfermline to host sustainability workshops for pupils.
The workshops were hosted at Commercial Primary School, St Margaret’s RC Primary School, McLean Primary School, Masterton Primary School, Milesmark Primary School and Carnegie Primary School.
These schools provide inclusive, supportive learning environments where pupils are encouraged to thrive academically and emotionally, preparing them for future success.
41 employees from the sustainability team at Amazon in Dunfermline lead recycling workshops, sharing their tips, tricks and skills for creating a sustainable environment with the pupils. The Amazon team also planted seeds in school gardens and created scavenger hunts for the pupils.
Natasha Blyth is an employee at Amazon in Dunfermline who visited the schools. She said: “I really appreciate the opportunities Amazon gives us to volunteer.The more we raise awareness around sustainability, the more chance we have for our children to live in a clean, healthy environment.”
Eleanor English, from Masterton Primary School, added: “Thank you to the team from Amazon in Dunfermline for giving their time to raise awareness on sustainability.
“The staff and pupils absolutely loved sprucing up the garden area with our new plants. The support from Amazon is greatly appreciated by all of us at Masterton Primary School – thanks again!”
Community donations and employee volunteering are just two of the ways Amazon supports the communities where it operates. Amazon co-founded The Big House Multibank in Fife with former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown to support families in need. The Multibank network has now donated more than 8 million surplus goods to over 600,000 families across Scotland, Wales, Greater Manchester, London, Tees Valley and Birmingham.
Amazon has supported more than one million students across the UK with free STEM education programmes through Amazon Future Engineer and helps community organisations transport meals and other essentials to families in need through its pro bono logistics programme, Amazon Local Good.
Amazon partners with Comic Relief and is the official home of the charity’s iconic Red Nose. Together with its employees, customers, and partners, Amazon has raised over £4.8 million to fund projects that support people across the UK, and around the world.
ASH Scotland is encouraging alcohol and drug support workers and volunteers in Edinburgh to access a new e-learning module providing vital information which can be used to encourage people who smoke and are being supported to reduce use of alcohol and other drugs to seek assistance to live tobacco-free.
Statistics show that level of smoking for people entering treatment for problematic substance use is substantially higher than the rate of the general adult population and the new learning aid can inform how to best support service users who want to quit smoking.
The health charity’s ‘Smoking and Problematic Substance Use’ module covers a range of topics including details about the linked behaviours between smoking and drinking alcohol or using drugs, the impacts of smoking on psychotropic drugs which may be provided during treatment, raising the issue of smoking and signposting to NHS Scotland’s free specialist Quit Your Way service.
Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive for ASH Scotland, said: “Our new e-learning module is designed to increase awareness and provide essential opportunities to learn about the negative impacts that tobacco use can have on the lives of people who are being supported to reduce consumption of alcohol and other drugs.
“For example, nicotine can be as addictive as heroin or cocaine and, when a cigarette burns, it releases a dangerous cocktail of more than 5,000 chemicals – 250 which are toxic and around 70 that are known to cause cancer.
“Smoking also reduces the effectiveness of medicated psychotropic drugs, such as benzodiazepines, clozapine and most antidepressants, by up to 50 per cent which means people receiving treatment may need higher doses that could put them at higher risk of experiencing side effects.
“Our e-learning module is a vital resource for alcohol and drug support workers and volunteers to build their knowledge and confidence in starting conversations to empower clients across Edinburgh to make informed choices about giving up smoking to live healthier lives.”
ASH Scotland’s ‘Smoking and problematic substance use’ e-learning module is available for free at www.ashscotlandmoodle.org.ukhere.
For quit smoking support, visit QuitYourWay.Scot or call the Quit Your Way Scotland free helpline on 0800 84 84 84.
Charities of all sizes in Scotland are being encouraged to sign up to a new volunteering platform, to help recruit more volunteers to support their invaluable work.
Leading volunteering charity, Royal Voluntary Service, has created a digital volunteering platform, thanks to support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, to help charities across the country to connect with would-be volunteers in their communities.
Local and regional charities are vital to the fabric of the country, and many rely on the time and support of volunteers, yet charities across the board are seeing fewer people step forward in recent years.
However, research by Royal Voluntary Service found that people in Scotland are interested in volunteering their time, if they could fit it around their lives. 48%1 of people in Scotland agreed that an app or platform offering the ability to volunteer on an ad-hoc-basis and fit in and around their life would make them more likely to volunteer, suggesting there’s an untapped pool of potential volunteers.
When combined with the finding that making a valuable contribution to society or local community was a leading motivator for people to volunteer, a positive picture is painted for local causes looking to recruit.
The platform will launch to the public in the autumn, when potential volunteers will be able to browse, search, filter, click and connect with causes and charities they care about.
Charities across the region are able to sign up to the platform now completely free of charge and will be invited to upload roles to test the platform from June onwards, ahead of the full launch to local people in the autumn.
It is hoped that the platform will be a hub of flexible, accessible digitally-enabled volunteering, and a resource that local charities can tap in to, to supercharge their volunteer recruitment.
Charities of all shapes and sizes, from sporting or arts charities, to those supporting people living with health conditions, and environmental causes to animal charities, are urged to sign up and consider uploading as diverse a range of volunteer roles as possible in the coming weeks and months.
Ensuring volunteering opportunities are varied and inclusive, from one-off, remote and flexible roles, to team-based, skilled, and traditional volunteering roles will help to broaden access to volunteering and inspire a new generation of volunteers for the benefit of causes and communities across the country.
Charities will also be able to benefit from welcoming new volunteers, whilst reducing the costs and admin associated with recruitment.
The goal of the platform’s simple ‘on-board once’ process for volunteers will mean that once a person has registered and completed an identity check, they will be able to move seamlessly between volunteering opportunities, charities and causes through the platform, without the need to re-register and repeat basic assurances.
Eventually, charities will also be able to utilise free criminal record checking, which will be introduced to the platform at a later date.
Catherine Johnstone CBE, Chief Executive of Royal Voluntary Service said: “We have shaped this exciting new platform in partnership with charities big and small across the country, to make sure it’s valuable for causes of all sizes.
“Together we can make volunteering more accessible and empower more people to give their time to support the host of invaluable charities and causes they care about, across Scotland.
“The platform addresses what we know to be barriers for would-be volunteers and makes fitting volunteering in to modern life easier than ever. Thanks to support from Postcode Lottery players we are on the cusp of a volunteer revolution, and I am passionate that as many charities and causes be a part of it as possible.”
Clara Govier, Managing Director at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “We work with a range of amazing charities and we understand the fundamental part that volunteers play in their operations and in civil society.
“Thanks to our players’ support, Royal Voluntary Service is creating a platform which makes it simpler for volunteers to find the opportunities that suit them, either where they live or online.
“Just think what could be possible for our communities if new generations of people start to volunteer their time. I’d like to thank everyone who plays People’s Postcode Lottery for their support in making this possible.”
Partnerships for Wellbeing is a Highland charity best known for its community transport, health walks and friendship groups. It also organises the annual festival of walking and wheeling.
Jeff Zycinski, Manager at Partnerships for Wellbeing, said:“Small community-based charities like ours are always looking for new ways to recruit volunteers.
“It’s been so great to be involved in the early development of this project which has the potential to be a game-changing tool for people looking for ways to include an element of voluntary work in their lives and so make a difference to the lives of others.”
The platform is entirely free for charities to use, including identity checking of volunteers.
Charities interested in participating in workshops and webinars, or registering to upload their volunteering opportunities to the platform can find out more and sign up at royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.
Edinburgh Leisure has paid tribute to the vital role of its volunteers with a special Volunteer Thank You Day, held on Thursday 6 June as part of the UK’s annual Volunteer Week celebrations.
The event brought together 60 of the organisation’s 190 volunteers for a day of appreciation, connection, and insight into the impact of their contributions. Hosted at one of Edinburgh Leisure’s Meadowbank Sports Centre, the gathering recognised the essential role volunteers play in supporting health and wellbeing across the city.
“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of many of our community programmes,” said Stephen Hughes, Volunteer Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure.
“They help us reach more people, deliver more services, and ultimately improve lives through physical activity. This event was a small way to say a big thank you.”
Volunteers at Edinburgh Leisure support a wide range of initiatives, from health walks and inclusive fitness sessions to youth engagement and wellbeing programmes. Their efforts help reduce barriers to physical activity and promote healthier, more connected communities.
The celebration also offered volunteers the opportunity to share their experiences, learn more about Edinburgh Leisure’s services, and connect with fellow volunteers and staff. Many spoke of the personal rewards of volunteering, including meeting new people, supporting others, and seeing participants grow in confidence and wellbeing.
Volunteer Week, which runs annually in early June, is a UK-wide initiative that recognises the invaluable contributions of volunteers in all sectors.
Interested in Volunteering?
Edinburgh Leisure is always looking for enthusiastic individuals to join its volunteer team.
Sporting Memories Foundation Scotland (SMFS) and Edinburgh Leisure are calling for volunteers to help launch a new weekly club that tackles depression, dementia, and loneliness through the power of sport.
The proposed Sporting Memories Club would be based at Meadowbank, with plans to start in the new year, pending volunteer support.
Following a successful one-off session at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, to mark the launch of Edinburgh 900 exhibition, organisers are eager to establish a regular programme for older adults passionate about sports.
Volunteer Opportunity Highlights
The clubs are run by trained by Sporting Memories volunteers who use a wide range of Sporting Memories reminiscence resources developed specifically to help prompt conversation and discussion. There is always great fun and laughter, friendships are forged, and some remarkable sporting stories often emerge.
Sporting Memories has developed an innovative and engaging approach to tackling the challenges of our ageing society. Their work focuses on reducing loneliness and isolation; getting older people physically active; and helping people to live well with dementia.
Donna Mackey, Partnership Manager at SMFS, emphasised the need for volunteers: “We’re looking for people with a love of sport and some spare time. No expert sports knowledge is required – we’ll provide full training and resources.”
Key points for potential volunteers:
No specialised sports expertise needed
Comprehensive training will be provided
Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in community health
Support for older adults, including those living with dementia
Community Impact
Sam Scott from Edinburgh Leisure explained the broader significance: “These clubs support Edinburgh Leisure’s mission to keep people active and well, no matter what age or stage.
“Using the rich history and heritage of sport, we’re creating a space where older adults can connect, reminisce, and build friendships through their shared love of sport.”
The clubs offer:
A welcoming environment for sport enthusiasts
Opportunities to share sporting memories
Social connection and support
Activities designed to combat isolation and support mental well-being
Who Can Participate?
The club welcomes:
Older adults who enjoy talking about sport
Individuals living with dementia
Carers interested in supporting their loved ones’ social engagement
We’re thrilled to share that the amazing volunteers from Spartans Community Foundation have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2024! This is the UK’s top honour for local volunteer groups – the equivalent of an MBE.
Spartans Community Foundation is one of 281 local charities, social enterprises, and volunteer groups to receive this award this year. The King’s Award for Voluntary Service was set up in 2002 to mark the late Queen’s Golden Jubilee and continues now in King Charles’ reign, recognising volunteer groups doing incredible work to support their communities.
Next summer, Spartans Community Foundation representatives will accept the award from the Lord-Lieutenant of Edinburgh, and two of our volunteers will also be invited to a garden party at Holyroodhouse.
Debbi McCulloch, CEO of Spartans Community Foundation, shared: “We’re absolutely thrilled and honoured that our volunteers have received The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
“This award is a tribute to their dedication, passion and hard work that makes a positive difference in our community every day.
“We couldn’t be prouder of this achievement and can’t wait to keep building a better future together.”
Thousands of volunteers took to streets, shopping centres and supermarkets for the final weekend of fundraising for the 2024 Scottish Poppy Appeal.
Affectionately known across the country as Poppy Saturday, the day saw an army of volunteer collectors, including veterans themselves and hundreds of young cadets, from Glasgow to Girvan, Edinburgh to Elgin, all make another outstanding effort to raise vital funds to support the Armed Forces community.
Tomorrow the nation will fall silent in sombre reflection and pause for two minutes on Remembrance Sunday, safe in the knowledge that Poppy Saturday across Scotland has once again been a roaring success, with shoppers enthusiastically donating.
Gordon Michie, Head of Fundraising and Learning at Poppyscotland, said: “We cannot thank each and every volunteer and indeed donator enough for their continued support to the Scottish Poppy Appeal.
“The response we have had, not just on Poppy Saturday but throughout the past three weeks, across the length and breadth of our country has been nothing short of phenomenal.
“On behalf of Poppyscotland and the Armed Forces community that we support, I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who gave so generously. Without such support, quite frankly the Scottish Poppy Appeal simply could not happen.”
The Scottish Poppy Appeal is Scotland’s biggest fundraising appeal, with millions of poppies being distributed around the country.
The money raised from the Appeal has enabled Poppyscotland to help countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces or with struggles adjusting from military to civilian life.
At the British Heart Foundation (BHF), we are calling for budding elves to spread Christmas cheer and lend an elfing hand in their local BHF shop.
We are looking for generous volunteers, or elves, to lend a hand – whether that’s picking out Secret Santa gift ideas, to getting creative and decorating the shop, or simply being a friendly ear for customers during what can be a lonely time of the year.
We welcome anyone who wants to help during this busy time. All you need is some festive spirit, a willingness to lend a hand, and maybe a Santa hat or two!
With no need to sign up to regular shifts, every hour will make a difference and raise money to fund lifesaving research, which will help keep families together for Christmases to come. So why not put your best elf forward and have a go at volunteering with the BHF?
To get involved, pop into your local shop or visit our website. There will be hot drinks, snacks, and a festive welcome waiting for you.
Yours sincerely,
Jo Wright
Retail Volunteering Operations Manager at the British Heart Foundation
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.
BECOME A TRUSTEE OF EDINBURGH’S MOST EXCITING NEW CHARITY! VINTAGE VIBES 
Are you someone who loves helping brilliant ideas grow?
JOIN OUR BOARD OF VOLUNTEER TRUSTEES! 
