Category: 2025

Looking Back on 2025: A Busy Year for MCA

Ellis on 18 December, 2025

As we get ready to close the office for the holidays, we’ve been looking back at everything that’s happened this year – and wow, it’s been busy!

We started the year with a bang, officially becoming Midlothian Community Action (MCA) after merging in April. It was a big step, but it means we can combine expertise to even better support Midlothian’s third sector.

We’ve welcomed new faces at the Volunteer Recruitment Fair, and helped young people gain skills through the Volunteer Like a BOSS project. In June, we celebrated amazing volunteers at the Midlothian Volunteer Awards and held our first-ever Midlothian-wide volunteer satisfaction survey as part of research into improving collective evaluation. And our projects like Connect Befriending, Connect Online, and the Conversation Café have kept people connected and supported.

There’s been plenty more training and events too – from PVG information sessions and launching the Governance Wiki, to hosting an interactive AI & Innovation workshop.

It’s hard to summarise everything we’ve been up to but we’ve pulled together some highlights from the past year.

Transform Project

In Transform‘s community garden, several major improvements are underway, including a new stumpery and a beautifully handcrafted bench, potting table, and compost bays, made by inmates at HMP Saughton. Our old benches have been generously repaired by the Dalkeith’s Men Shed, and we’ve had fun creating new bird boxes – thanks to the team at Jewsons, who kindly donated the wood.

Our volunteer-led Mad Hatter’s Tea Party was a huge success, earning young organisers a 25-hour Saltire Award. Speaking of which, one of our young volunteers hit an incredible milestone of 500 hours, receiving a certificate signed by John Swinney!

Transform also launched an after-school board games club at Hawthornden Primary, where young volunteers help run sessions and support younger pupils. And our SQA students continue to excel in Volunteering Skills and have been instrumental in restoring garden pathways and making the space more welcoming.

It’s been a busy and rewarding year and we are so grateful to everyone – volunteers, mentors, partners, and the wider community who have supported Transform in 2025.

Midlothian Financial Inclusion Network (MFIN)

MFIN has had a busy year, organising the Challenge Poverty Week event, promoting and taking part in the Scotland Demands Better march, co-producing leaflets about Climate Change adaptations and Climate Funding advice. We also worked on the Good Food Nation plan and a Midlothian summary of the census.

The Grassy Riggs

The Grassy Riggs have had a very eventful year, from Connect Online sessions, visits from our local Community Police Officers, and Dalkeith Fire Brigade. Their knitting and crochet group supported a range of causes, from local hospitals & schools to knitting for Ukraine. They ended the year with their biggest project to date, putting together 50 care bags for Street Work Edinburgh, a homeless prevention project.

Midlothian Climate Action Network (MCAN)

Our colleagues at the Midlothian Climate Action Hub have been keeping busy too, with the launch of their themed circles focusing on Biodiversity, Energy & Heat, Reuse & Repair, and Food.

They’ve also been out at plenty of events, from conservation learning days to local community meals. And are already hard at work planning activities for 2026!

Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund

Now in it’s fifth year, the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund supports Midlothian organisations to deliver activities that improve mental health & wellbeing, benefitting an estimated 1 in 25 residents.

This year, MCA is part of the first multi-year pilot, distributing £300k across three grant streams. Two funding panels supported scoring of the 58 applications and resulted in 7 large, 16 small, and 5 micro projects awarded funding. We are very pleased with the commitment of the scoring panel and the improved quality of applications. We wish all the successful recipients all the very best in setting up their activities and provisions.

Third Sector Summit

This year, we also lead on and organised two Third Sector Summits. The Third Sector Summits, established in 2018, were designed to strengthen equal partnership, support collaboration, and improve outcomes for people in Midlothian.

Held twice a year, they bring together third sector practitioners and Midlothian Health & Social Care Partnership (HSCP) to share practice, build relationships, and explore joint solutions. The use of Mentimeter at our recent Autumn Third Sector Summit, has enabled effective data collection and the creation of an action plan based on the feedback gathered.

Happy Holidays from MCA!

The end-of-year celebrations at MCA have been jam-packed, starting in November with our Conversation Café group going on a trip to Holyrood House in Edinburgh. Our Volunteer Hub had a festive makeover, hosting a cheerful holiday party for all of our volunteers.

So suffice to say, we’ll be taking a much needed break for the holidays – our office closes at 3pm on Thursday 18 December and will re-open on Monday 5 January 2026. Until then, have a wonderful new year and we’ll see you in 2026!

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Winter Wellbeing for Older People in Midlothian

Ellis on 17 December, 2025

Midlothian Older People’s Assembly and Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnership welcome you to our Winter eNewsletter for older people. Full of positive advice, local organisations, groups and local resources to promote an informed, connected, resourced, and healthy winter season.

Here we offer some examples of the diversity of local organisations and groups working with older people and communities to promote good health, informed citizens, connectedness and well being.

Older people play an integral part in strengthening the social fabric of our communities; as workers, carers, volunteers, activists and connectors. We hope this newsletter may assist wellbeing in Winter for some of our Older citizens living in Midlothian.

View and download the newsletter by clicking the link below:

MOPA Winter Newsletter 25Download

Stay Safe This Winter With Forward Mid’s Newsletter

Ellis on 10 December, 2025

For many Winter is the most challenging season of the year – from trying to keep warm to navigating icy pavements. Forward Mid have released their 2025 Winter Newsletter, full of information on what support is available for disabled people and people with long term conditions living in Midlothian this Winter.

Inside you’ll find out about local organisations that can give you practical help – from saving money on your energy bills to keeping your home safe. There are tips on how you can look after your own physical and mental health as well as how you can help yourself and your neighbours, with an extensive list of emergency contact numbers.

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of Winter is keeping in contact with people regularly and safely, feeling the warmth that a good conversation can have. Bad weather can put paid to physically meeting people but inside Forward Mid’s newsletter you’ll find options to help overcome this barrier.

On behalf of everyone at Forward Mid, we wish you a healthy and safe winter. Be as active as you can be. Keep connected. Keep talking. Take advantage of the support that is available. Take care of yourself and others where possible.

Download a PDF of Forward Mid’s Winter Newsletter here:

ForwardMid Newsletter 25-12Download

Free copies are available to pick up from Midlothian libraries, or from Midlothian Community Action’s office in Dalkeith.

Staying Safe in Stormy Weather

Ellis on 19 November, 2025

Over the past few years, we’ve all noticed that storms seem to be happening more often and with greater force. Scientists tell us that changes in the climate are contributing to this increase, so it’s more important than ever to be prepared.

Before a Storm

You will usually get a warning that a storm is on its way. Take steps to prepare yourself and your property, including:

  • Secure loose objects such as ladders, garden furniture or anything else that could be blown into windows or cause danger.
  • Check the weather forecast and keep up-to-date with the latest weather warnings.
  • Check in on those around you who might need additional support.
  • Park vehicles in a garage if available.
  • If chimney stacks are tall and in poor condition, move beds away from areas directly below them in case the chimney collapses into the house.
  • Prepare an emergency kit with a torch, spare batteries, warm blankets, bottled water, and any essential medication.
  • Charge your mobile phone in case of power cuts – see box below.
  • If you have a Carer Emergency Plan, ensure that it is up-to-date and includes planning for extreme weather conditions. Contact VOCAL Carer Centre for more information or to complete a Carer Emergency Plan.
  • Stay informed. You can pick up a Severe Weather leaflet from your local Midlothian library. Ready Scotland and the MET Office are both good sources of information.

During a Storm

  • Keep up-to-date with the latest weather warnings, flood advice and road conditions, and follow any travel advice from Police Scotland.
  • Take care driving on exposed routes such as bridges, coastal routes or high open roads. Delay your journey or find alternative routes if necessary.
  • Don’t go outside to repair damage while the storm is in progress.
  • If you lose power, call 105 – it’s free of charge and will put you through to your local network operator who can help and advise you.
  • If possible, enter and leave your house through doors on the sheltered side of the building, closing them behind you.

After a Storm

  • Be careful not to touch any electrical/ telephone cables that have been blown down or are still hanging. Call 105 to report damage to electricity power lines and substations that could put someone in danger. If there’s a serious immediate risk, phone the emergency services.
  • Check in on those around you who might need additional support in an emergency.
  • Support any neighbours who may need additional help in making arrangements for repairs. Be mindful that some neighbours may not have access to the internet and may need extra help in arranging repairs.

Landlines

Many households are moving from traditional copper landlines to new digital phone services. Unlike the old system, digital phones may not work if there’s a power cut, which often happens in storms. If you rely on a landline, check with your phone provider about back-up options – for example, a battery unit – and keep a charged mobile phone handy just in case.

You might also want to charge a power bank. A power bank is a portable battery designed to recharge electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets when you don’t have access to a wall charger. It stores electrical energy and acts as an external backup battery If you’d like to talk to someone about using a power bank, come to one of our Connect Online digital skills drop-ins.

SP Energy Networks Priority Services Register

SP Energy Networks keep electricity flowing to homes and businesses throughout Central and Southern Scotland. They maintain a Priority Services Register so that they can contact their most vulnerable customers if they do experience a power cut. It’s free to join and there are no additional charges associated with this service.

Complete the Priority Services registration form to join the register, or call 0330 10 10 444.

Download a .pdf version of this article:

Staying Safe in Stormy WeatherDownload

Midlothian Needs Friends: Saving Lives with Befriending

Ellis on 4 November, 2025

A simple conversation can save a life – and this Befriending Week, we’re celebrating the volunteers who make those life-changing connections possible across Midlothian.

Befriending Week is an annual campaign during the first week of November to celebrate befriending, highlighting the positive impact it has on individuals and communities.

Demand for befriending services is at an all time high, with the Befriending Network’s 2025 Befriending Sector Insight Report highlighting the vital need for and importance of volunteer befrienders:

  • 72% of member organisations report increased demand for befriending services. 
  • Over 7,400 people are currently waiting to be matched with a befriender. 
  • 21,024 volunteer befrienders deliver more than 1.6 million hours of support annually. 

Midlothian’s Connect Befriending Project

We at Connect Befriending, support volunteers to create meaningful connections that brighten older peoples’ days. We provide ongoing training, opportunities for learning, and one-on-one support so our befrienders can feel confident and enjoy the connection they create.

This week we want to say a massive thank you to all the people and organisations that have made this project possible, especially our fantastic volunteer befrienders. Our Connect Befriending Project Coordinator, Sam Dyce, explains,

“We know how incredibly impactful a befriender can be for isolated older people. It’s a real privilege to provide a service that not only helps people get the enjoyment of meeting new people, but where we can help volunteers develop as they support their community.”

Befriending is not only beneficial to our service users but also had huge positive impacts on our volunteers themselves. We asked one of our Connect Befriending volunteers, Martin, to share his experience:

“I enjoy it because you can see a real difference in people lives. A positive difference. People can feel isolated, and 2-3 hours may not seem like a lot of time but to some people this can be something of a highlight in the week. Especially if they are largely confined to their home. This is the main benefit I think as a befriender I provide.

But also, of course, we provide some respite for the main carer. These people have a very difficult job and even a few hours here and there can let them go out or do things they need to do. Personally, I find it a real privilege that people we visit let you into their lives, sharing their family and life story with you. And I would really recommend it to anyone thinking of volunteering.”

A little connection goes a long way. Become a volunteer befriender today.

Midlothian Demands Better: Banner Making for Change

Ellis on 14 October, 2025

As communities across Scotland prepare to march for a fairer future, Midlothian is getting creative. On Thursday 23 October, local residents, community groups, and campaigners are invited to join Midlothian Community Action at One Dalkeith for a banner-making session ahead of the Scotland Demands Better march in Edinburgh.

Hosted in partnership with Midlothian Climate Action Network, the event – titled Midlothian Demands Better – is a chance to come together, share ideas, and make banners that reflect the local issues we care about most. Whether it’s housing, transport, wages, or public services, we’ll be exploring what “better” means for Midlothian.

Materials will be provided, and attendees are encouraged to bring cardboard or reusable items to keep things sustainable. There’ll be tea and biscuits, – and plenty of space to chat, create, and connect.

Register on Eventbrite

Why We’re Marching

Scotland Demands Better, organised by The Poverty Alliance, is a non-partisan march and rally taking place on Saturday 25 October in Edinburgh. It’s a call for:

  • Better jobs for everyone who needs one, with fair conditions and wages that pay the bills.
  • Better investment for life’s essentials, like affordable homes, good public transport, a thriving natural environment and strong public services.
  • Better social security so that all of us have a foundation for the future.

Change for the better happens when people stand together and demand it. Scotland needs that change. Too many are struggling to afford life’s essentials. Too many are going hungry, living in cold homes, or working jobs that don’t pay the bills. This march is about standing together to say: we deserve better.

The march will assemble from 10am at the Scottish Parliament, proceeding along the Royal Mile to George IV Bridge and concluding at The Meadows with a rally involving music, speeches, stalls and workshops.

Midlothian’s Voice Matters

The banner-making session is part of a wider effort to ensure Midlothian’s voice is heard. What would “better” look like here? What are the local demands we want to amplify?

Whether you’re a volunteer, staff member, activist, or simply curious, everyone is welcome. Come along, get creative, and help us make sure Midlothian has strong representation at the Scotland Demands Better march.

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Midlothian Unites to Challenge Poverty

Ellis on 10 October, 2025

This Challenge Poverty Week, we’d like to highlight the work of the Midlothian Financial Inclusion Network (MFIN) and extend our thanks to everyone who attended their event this week.

Sustaining Anti-Poverty Work in Midlothian

Midlothian Community Action work in close partnership with MFIN, a network that aims to help relieve poverty and promote public awareness around matters relating to the management of personal finances.

MFIN held a special Challenge Poverty Event on Tuesday, themed around sustaining anti-poverty work in challenging times. The event, held at St John’s & King’s Park Church in Dalkeith, provided a great opportunity to hear from national funders.

Lead Development Worker at MCA, Natalie Welsh, explained:

“I think it’s amazing that we can have funders come out and speak to us. Midlothian is a small community and it’s great that we can have somebody come out from the council and talk about the stats that they use. It shows the sort of close relationship that we have and the ability to work together to tackle issues, especially poverty.”

During the event, the Midlothian Climate Action Network announced the launch of two new, free resources developed in partnership with MFIN. These guides are aimed at third sector organisations and community groups to build long-term resilience and secure crucial funding.

What is Challenge Poverty Week?

Challenge Poverty Week is Scotland’s annual chance to highlight the injustice of poverty, and to celebrate collective action based on justice and compassion. It’s a chance for you to raise your voice against poverty and unite with others in calling for a just and equal Scotland. Each year, hundreds of organisations do just that, including elected representative, charities and NGOs, local authorities, faith groups, businesses, school and colleges, trade unions, professional bodies and more.

Peter Kelly of The Poverty Alliance said:

“We’re very pleased that Midlothian is marking this year’s Challenge Poverty Week. In a rich country like ours, poverty is an injustice that weakens us all as a society. But we can solve it. We can redesign our economy to make sure people have incomes that are adequate enough to live a life with freedom and dignity.”

Cost of Living Support in Midlothian

MFIN continue to update their Cost of Living Support Directory with a range of accessible support services, from local food pantries and clothing banks, to 1-1 finance and job support.

In collaboration with Dalkeith CAB, MFIN has also published a range of useful leaflets that provide information on the most common enquiries that local statutory & third sector organisations often receive.

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New Resources: Weather Adaptation & Climate Funding

Ellis on 7 October, 2025

As we mark #ChallengePovertyWeek and local organisations come together at St John’s & King’s Park Church to discuss sustaining vital anti-poverty work in Midlothian, Midlothian Climate Action Network (MCAN) are excited to launch two new, free resources.

Developed in partnership with the Midlothian Financial Inclusion Network, these guides are aimed at third sector organisations and community groups to build long-term resilience and secure crucial funding.

Adverse Weather Preparation: A Practical Guide for the Third Sector

To protect vulnerable users, maintain critical services, and reduce future costs, third-sector organisations must begin to adapt.

This practical guide provides clear, actionable steps to help your organisation build resilience to extreme weather and secure the continuation of its services.

Green Flags for Funders: Best Practice for Climate Funding

This booklet provides essential support for organisations new to focusing on climate issues.

It outlines the real impacts of the climate emergency and offers practical guidance on how to access funding to prepare for them.

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Celebrating Uniformed Volunteers with Police Scotland

Ellis on 29 September, 2025

As we mark one year since the launch of the Volunteering For All national campaign, we’re thrilled to share some exciting developments in Midlothian’s volunteering landscape.

We were recently joined at our office by Midlothian’s Local Area Commander from Police Scotland, Chief Inspector Kirsty McArthur-Kerr, for a special interview hosted by Black Diamond FM. The conversation touched on the importance of volunteering, community connections, and the launch of our new ‘Uniformed Volunteer’ Award category. You can listen to the full interview here:

Introducing the ‘Uniformed Volunteer’ Award

In partnership with Police Scotland and with support from the Midlothian Provost in their role as Volunteering Champion, we’re proud to announce a brand-new category for the Midlothian Volunteer Awards: Uniformed Volunteer Award.

This award will celebrate individuals who volunteer as part of a uniformed organisation—recognising their dedication, exemplary conduct, and role as positive ambassadors in our communities. Eligible groups include Scouts, Girl Guides, Youth Police Volunteers, Cadets, Royal Archers, Boys and Girls Brigade, St John Ambulance, Coastguard, and many more.

Welcoming Back Police Scotland

We’re delighted to welcome Police Scotland back as a sponsor of the Midlothian Volunteer Awards, joining a fantastic group of sponsors and supporters who help make this annual celebration possible. Our sponsors include:

  • Midlothian Council
  • Health and Social Care Partnership
  • SQA
  • EDF
  • Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
  • David Wilson Homes

And our supporters:

  • Midlothian Provost – Volunteer Champion
  • Midlothian Lord Lieutenant

Their continued support helps us shine a light on the incredible contributions of volunteers across Midlothian.

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Midlothian Leads the Way in Trauma Awareness & Wellbeing

Ellis on 19 September, 2025

As Midlothian marks its first-ever Trauma Awareness Week, we are also excited to announce the opening of the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund—an important step towards supporting local initiatives that enhance mental health and wellbeing across our communities. With £249k available to local organisations, this fund is a unique opportunity to create lasting change, just as Midlothian’s Trauma Awareness Week is helping to set the stage for greater understanding and support around mental health.

Midlothian Trauma Awareness Week: A First For Scotland

This week, Midlothian is leading the way with the first-ever Trauma Awareness Week in Scotland. Launched by Midlothian Council, the week focuses on key principles of trauma-informed care: Collaboration, Trust, Safety, Empowerment, and Choice.

In her opening speech at the launch event on Monday, Midlothian Council’s Chief Executive, Dr Grace Vickers, shared the aims and goals behind this initiative:

“The aim of the week is to raise awareness and understanding of the impact that trauma can have on individuals, families and communities, while also showcasing the positive and supportive steps that staff, services and organisations across Midlothian are taking to support everyone to grow, recover and thrive.”

The week focuses on key principles of trauma-informed care: Collaboration, Trust, Safety, Empowerment, and Choice. Events will run throughout the week, providing local professionals and community members training on how to support those affected by trauma.

The Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund

As Midlothian’s Trauma Awareness Week wraps up this Friday, MCA are excited to open applications for the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund, with a total of £249,914.16 available in year 5 to support local projects. The fund has a strong emphasis on collaboration, partnerships, capacity building and the development of creative projects that can work at a very grassroots level, together with local people.

One important aspect of the fund is its focus on trauma-informed practice. As Midlothian embraces trauma awareness and works towards becoming a trauma-informed community, it’s vital that organisations receiving funding can demonstrate a commitment to this approach. All successful projects will given support to access free trauma-informed training.

The Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund is now open for applications, with three distinct grant streams to choose from. Whether you’re offering direct mental health support, creating safe spaces for individuals to connect, or providing education on wellbeing, we encourage you to apply. The deadline for applications is Friday, 31 October at 12PM.

Apply for the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund

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£249K Fund Announced for Mental Health & Wellbeing in Midlothian

Ellis on 3 September, 2025

A large field of yellow sunflowers stand tall beneath a clear blue sky.

We are excited to announce that Years 5 & 6 of the Midlothian Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for Adults will open on Friday 19 September 2025.

Fund Focus & Objectives

This highly valued fund supports people’s mental health and wellbeing while offering opportunities for community connection. It focuses on early intervention and prevention, helping communities create the conditions for good mental health at a population level.

Midlothian Community Action (MCA) has been appointed by the Scottish Government to distribute the funding locally. The fund is designed to be accessible and supportive of grassroots organisations, with a strong emphasis on collaboration, inclusion, and impact.

All grants are aimed at grassroots community organisations to promote mental health and wellbeing and/or protect against the impact of distress and mental ill health within the adult population in Midlothian.

Grant Streams in 2025/26

In Midlothian there will be a total of £249,914.16 available in Year 5. Funding will be distributed across three grant streams:

  • Micro Grants – up to £2,500
  • Small Grants – up to £10,000
  • Large Grants – up to £30,000

To compliment the small and large grant steams, up to an additional £5000 per organisation will also be available for capital spend.

This year, the fund is part of the Scottish Government’s Fairer Funding Pilot, offering multi-year support to help local organisations plan for the long term and deliver sustainable impact.

Year 6 of the fund is not guaranteed and is subject to Scottish Government budget approval, as the grant offer letter states: “The value of the grant payable in year 2 is an indicative confirmation and cannot be taken as a guarantee. All indicative funding commitments are subject to the outcome of any spending review by the Scottish Government and approval of the annual Budget Bills by the Scottish Parliament during this period.”

MCA will welcome applications from both one and two yearlong projects. 

Key Dates

Applications open: Friday 19 September 2025

Applications close: Friday 31 October 2025.

To support applicants, MCA will host 1:1 online appointments on Monday 22 September. Email magdalena.clark@mca.scot to book a slot.

We’re also hosting two lunchtime information sessions all about the fund, on Wednesday 24 September and Monday 06 October.

Fund Information
Contact Us

What’s It Like to Work at MCA? – Student Placement Experience

Ellis on 27 August, 2025

We’re delighted to share a blog post and video, created by Zoe Innes, our recent student placement. Zoe describes her experience working with Midlothian Community Action over the past 6 months.

MCA would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Zoe for all her hard-work and the enthusiastic attitude she brought to our team. We wish her the best as she heads into the final year of her degree and can’t wait to hear about her future endeavours.

During my student placement at Midlothian Community Action, I completed the role of Marketing and Communications Assistant.

Midlothian Community Action is a community-focused organisation that supports local charities, volunteer groups and social enterprises throughout Midlothian.

My placement offered hands-on experience in non-profit communications, digital marketing and event coordination, while deepening my understanding of how local organisations engage with their audiences and celebrate community efforts.

 1. Social Media Management 

One major focus of my placement was helping manage the organisation’s social media presence. I created content for platforms including Facebook and Instagram, aligning posts with current campaigns, and community initiatives. Some tasks include: 

  • Planning and scheduling content using digital tools.  
  • Creating visuals and writing to promote volunteer opportunities and local events.  

Through this, I developed skills in social media strategy and digital branding while also learning how to tailor messaging to different audiences.

2. Event Support: Midlothian Volunteer Awards  

One of the highlights of my placement was helping organise the Midlothian Volunteer Awards, an annual event that recognises the outstanding contributions of local volunteers. My responsibilities included: 

  • Designing and planning the programme. 
  • Help to publicise the event across social media and encourage nominations. 
  • Announce the nominations during the event and ensure the correct distribution of trophies. 

Being a part of this event allowed me to experience first hand the impact of volunteer work in the community and understand the value of recognition and celebration within the third sector.

Skills gained: 

  • Digital communication: Strengthened my skills in social media marketing, content creation and brand voice.  
  • Event planning: Gained practical experience in coordinating a public-facing community event.  
  • Teamwork and communication: Worked collaboratively with staff and volunteers, contributing ideas in meetings and taking on responsibility for tasks independently. 
  • Community engagement: Developed an appreciation for communication and the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in nonprofit outreach.  

My placement at Midlothian Community Action was a valuable opportunity to apply my academic learning in a real-world setting. I left the placement with enhanced confidence in marketing and communication tools, a deeper connection to community values, and a clearer idea of how I might contribute to the third sector in the future.

Zoe Innes

If you’d like to learn more about student placement or work experience opportunities at MCA, contact us via email.

“We’re All Mad Here!” – Young Volunteers Host Community Tea Party

Ellis on 18 August, 2025

After two weeks of learning how to plan, promote, and host events, a group of young volunteers wrapped up their efforts with a vibrant and joyful Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Held in the Community Garden at Dalkeith Country Park on Friday 1 August 2025, the event was a collaboration between the young volunteers and MCA’s Youth Coordinator, Carey Douglas.

The volunteers, who dedicated part of their summer holidays to this project, chose the Mad Hatter theme themselves and transformed the garden into Wonderland. Around 70 parents, carers, and children joined in the fun, enjoying a range of free activities, including a treasure hunt, face painting, glitter tattoos, and themed games like ‘Pin the Tail on the Bunny’ and ‘Guess the Bunny’s Name.’ There was also a pop-up café offering free refreshments, run by the volunteers themselves.

This exciting day marked the culmination of two weeks of workshops, where the young volunteers developed essential skills in teamwork, marketing, and communication. With support from MCA’s communications staff, they designed their own promotional graphics using Canva, gaining valuable experience in digital design and creative collaboration.

Carey Douglas, Youth Coordinator at MCA, said:
“The young people were full of enthusiasm and energy, they were a great bunch. They quickly became a team, working hard to plan, organise  and host what turned out to be a ‘mad success. I’m so proud of their commitment and creativity. We’ve had lovely feedback from parents and the public — especially the children, who were absolutely in their element. Thank you to everyone who supported the event”

One young volunteer shared, “I loved how everything came together — and I’ve made lots of new friends.”
Another added, “This was such a different experience for me. I’ve definitely grown more confident.”

All eight young volunteers were recognised with 25-hour Saltire Awards for their contribution — a well-deserved celebration of their effort and dedication.

Thank you to everyone who came along to support the event — we hope to see you again next year!

Authored by Carey Douglas, Youth Coordinator.

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New ‘Governance Wiki’ Launched to Strengthen Charity Governance Across Scotland

Ellis on 25 June, 2025

A new digital resource hub is now live to help Scotland’s voluntary sector navigate governance challenges.

The Governance Wiki, developed by Midlothian Community Action (MCA) in collaboration with third sector experts across Scotland, has officially launched during Small Charity Week 2025. This free user-friendly platform offers accessible, up-to-date guidance for charities, community groups, and social enterprises on a range of governance topics—from legal obligations and board roles to compliance and risk management.

Backed by funding from the Tyne-Esk Community Led Local Development Fund, the Governance Wiki was created in response to increasing demand for governance support, particularly among smaller or volunteer-led organisations that often lack the capacity to access traditional training or keep pace with evolving regulations.

“We heard loud and clear from the sector that governance needs to be demystified and made accessible. The Governance Wiki brings together trusted resources curated from across the TSI Network, and also signposts users on to excellent existing resources from organisations such as SCVO and Evaluation Support Scotland.”

Dr Lesley Kelly

Chief Officer, Midlothian Community Action
Dr Lesley Kelly pictured with the newly launched Governance Wiki website.

Collaborative and Community-Driven

The project was shaped through consultation with Third Sector Interfaces (TSIs) and sector stakeholders, with content led by an independent consultant from IBSM Ltd and developed in partnership with Glasgow Social Enterprise Network, Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action, and CVS Inverclyde.

The platform itself was built by Volunteer Edinburgh, drawing on the infrastructure of its successful Volunteer Wiki. Designed for ease of use, the site features intuitive navigation, mobile accessibility, and powerful search functions.

Looking Ahead

MCA is now working with the wider TSI Network to keep the Wiki current and relevant, with plans to:

  • Continuously update and expand the content.
  • Evaluate usage and gather feedback, beginning with an event at the TSI Conference in October.
  • Collaborate with sector bodies to ensure alignment with governance best practices.


Explore the Wikis by clicking the links below:

governancewiki.org.uk
volunteerwiki.org.uk

#MidlothianCares Week – Cost of Living & Finance Support

Ellis on 24 June, 2025

#MidlothianCares Week takes place this year from Monday 23 June to Friday 27 June, with a different theme for each day of the week. The focus of the campaign is to promote local services, drop-ins, and contacts which can help year-round.

With Tuesday’s theme being ‘Revenues’, we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to highlight the work of the Midlothian Financial Inclusion Network (MFIN).

MFIN, which has over 20 participating organisations, aims to help relieve poverty and promote public awareness around matters relating to the management of personal finances. Midlothian Community Action host an MFIN staff member and frequently take part in the network meetings.

In collaboration with Dalkeith CAB, MFIN has published a range of useful leaflets that aim to give people the information that they need to resolve some of the most common enquiries that local statutory & third sector organisations often receive.

They also maintain a Cost of Living Support Directory, updated frequently and packed full of helpful information. You can view & download all of these resources on the MFIN page of our website:

View MFIN Resources

MFIN Member Support & Services

VoiceAbility

An independent charity that provide advocacy and involvement services to support people to be heard in decisions about their health, care and wellbeing. Their advocacy services can offer help to access benefits from Social Security Scotland.

Visit VoiceAbility’s Website
Scotland Benefits Poster A4Download
VOCAL Midlothian

Money Matter and Financial Wellbeing support at VOCAL Midlothian:

Benefits and entitlements

VOCAL offers one-to-one appointments with benefits advisors, to help you understand and access what you’re entitled to.

There are many benefits available for unpaid carers and the people you care for. The welfare rights system can often be overwhelming, but it’s important to know what you’re entitled to.

VOCAL offers appointments with our Money Matters team: Carer Support Practitioners with specialist knowledge in income maximisation. They can do a benefits check and support you with any applications.

To book a benefits check appointment, please contact Vocal Midlothian.

Grants and funding

We offer grants to support carers facing financial challenges and funding to take a break from caring.

We provide grant funding opportunities designed to enhance carers’ wellbeing and financial stability. Our funds offer much-needed support, whether it’s through enabling a well-deserved break or assisting with essential costs.

Wee Breaks Fund

The Wee Breaks Fund is designed to provide unpaid carers with opportunities to take a break from their caring responsibilities, enhancing their health and wellbeing. This fund is available to carers who support someone living in Edinburgh or Midlothian. Breaks can vary from a few hours to longer periods, depending on individual needs and preferences. Examples include funding for leisure activities, short holidays, or therapeutic treatments. Learn more.

Midlothian Carer Assistance Fund

The Midlothian Carer Assistance Fund provides one-off grants to carers in Midlothian to help manage the rising costs associated with their caring role. This financial support aims to alleviate some of the financial pressures carers may face, ensuring they can continue to provide care without compromising their own wellbeing.

Please note, this fund is not open to carers in Edinburgh.

Grants may include providing funds to support:

  • Costs of setting up Power of Attorney
  • Energy costs associated with having your heating on more frequently
  • Costs due to travelling to appointments
  • Food costs as a result of the person you care for requiring a special diet
  • Sitter service to help you attend important appointments
  • Personal hygiene or continence products
  • Specialised clothing
  • Specialist equipment or white goods which support the caring role

Grants are not limited to the examples provided above, and we encourage carers to be as creative as possible when considering what would help them most in their caring role.

Visit VOCAL’s Website
ChangeWorks

Affordable Warmth Services

Changeworks’ Affordable Warmth Services team is skilled in working with people and households on low incomes and who find themselves in vulnerable situations.

The Affordable Warmth Services team can be contacted from 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday, on freephone 0800 870 8800. You can also email them at warmth@changeworks.org.uk.

You can refer yourself or a client to their Affordable Warmth Services team using the referral form on their website:

Visit ChangeWorks’ Website

You can find more Cost of Living support & resources on the #MidlothianCares website. Learn more about the Midlothian Financial Inclusion Network by contacting MCA.