Tag: 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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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.

“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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#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.

Midlothian Volunteer Awards 2025

Ellis on 9 June, 2025

On Thursday 29 May 2025, volunteers from across Midlothian arrived at Newbattle Abbey College for our annual Midlothian Volunteer Awards Ceremony. We’re thrilled to celebrate all the amazing efforts of volunteers each year.

This celebration is a part of Volunteer’s Week, a national initiative where we appreciate volunteers across Scotland. It provides a great opportunity to highlight some of the fabulous volunteering projects that exist in Midlothian.

Photographs

Special thank you to Kris Soul Photography for the wonderful photos.

View All Photos

Programme

View the award winners & nominees in our 2025 programme. There are a limited number of printed copies available to pick up from MCA’s office.

Midlothian Volunteer Awards 2025 Programme by Zoe Innes

Mascot Campaign

Last year, instead of introducing a new mascot, we brought back all our previous mascots to celebrate with everyone. This year, we are excited to continue the tradition by introducing a brand-new mascot — a lovely bear! With the recent merger of Volunteer Midlothian and Midlothian Voluntary Action, and our new name, we thought the bear deserved a new name too.

We hosted a Name the Bear competition taking place over Volunteers’ Week, and are excited to announce the winning name for our mascot: Middie!

Chosen for its fun and friendly feel, Middie is a perfect fit for a bear representing the heart of Midlothian. It’s short, memorable, and captures the local spirit we’ve seen throughout the mascot’s journey. Congratulations to the winner of our Name the Bear competition — we’ll be in touch with you soon to arrange your prize, the bear for you to keep!

A huge thank you to all our sponsors for getting involved and taking fantastic photos with the bear.

Thank You

The Midlothian Volunteer Awards couldn’t take place each year without the support from our sponsors. Thank you!

Capital City Partnership

David Wilson Homes

EDF Energy

Midlothian Council

Midlothian Health & Social Care Partnership

Newbattle Abbey College

Scottish Fire & Rescue Service

Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)

Well Done You Ltd

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Why Volunteering Matters – In the Words of Midlothian’s Volunteers

Ellis on 6 June, 2025

This Volunteers’ Week, we are excited to share findings from our first-ever Midlothian-wide Volunteer Satisfaction Survey. This survey was created to better understand the impacts of volunteering on volunteers themselves, to enhance volunteer support and help organisations better demonstrate their impact.

This year is our first iteration of the survey, and as such was only shared for a limited time with a hand full of Volunteer Involving Organisations (VIOs). We were please to receive 68 responses from volunteers across Midlothian, sharing their reflections on how volunteering has shaped their wellbeing, skills, confidence, and connection to their community. The responses paint a powerful picture:

  • 99% said volunteering helped them achieve their goals
  • 98% said volunteering has helped them make a difference in others’ lives.
  • 93% of weekly volunteers feel more connected to their community

“Life-changing. Astounded by the skill of the staff and other partners to provide inclusive opportunities. Proud to be a part of my project and I feel my contribution is well valued.”

Many spoke about the joy of feeling useful, learning new things, and making real connections across generations. These insights help shine a light on the often-unseen personal benefits of volunteering—and why creating good volunteer experiences matters.

“Volunteering has been a really positive experience for me mentally, physically, and socially.”

We plan to build on these insights by running the survey every year and opening it up to even more volunteers and organisations. Thank you to everyone who took part—and to the volunteers who continue to support our communities to thrive.

Read more insights from the survey:

Midlothian Volunteer Satisfaction Survey – 2025 InsightsDownload

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Midlothian Volunteer Awards 2025

Ellis on 19 May, 2025

Click here to view the Midlothian Volunteer Awards 2025 programme!

The Midlothian Volunteer Awards are back! We’re excited to celebrate all the amazing efforts of volunteers in Midlothian over the past year.

This celebration is a part of Volunteer’s Week, a national initiative where we appreciate people’s kindness across the whole of Scotland. It is a great opportunity to promote some of the fabulous volunteering projects that exist in Midlothian. The 2025 Award Ceremony will be held on Thursday 29 May at the splendid Newbattle Abbey College.

Please note this event is for nominated volunteers, and their nominees. The RSVP deadline has now passed.

Take a look at our video from 2023 to see what it’s all about:

Celebrating the Launch of Midlothian Community Action

Ellis on 9 April, 2025

Last week, we celebrated the merger and formation of Midlothian Community Action with a special event at our offices and Volunteer Hub. We are thrilled to have had such an incredible turnout and would like to extend a big thank you to everyone who joined us!

The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by the newly appointed Lord Lieutenant of Midlothian, Sarah Barron, who gave a wonderful speech.

“We are entering an exciting new phase with today’s launch of Midlothian Community Action, a force that will amplify the incredible contributions that you and our Volunteers make across our County.
I would like to thank all of you for your commitment and dedication in creating an organisation that will make Midlothian a better place for us all and I wish you all every success in the future”.

Lord Lieutenant Sarah Barron

We were also grateful to be joined by The Provost and Volunteer Champion, Debbi McCall, in attendance. Her continued support throughout the years has been invaluable, and we were grateful she could join us at this landmark event.

It was heart warming to see so many familiar faces and to share this momentous occasion with those who have been instrumental in our journey. The event was also a wonderful opportunity to showcase our new Midlothian building signage, including the newly re-named Volunteer Hub.

Check out some highlights from the event below, curtesy of our wonderful photographer, Kris Soul Photography.

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Midlothian Community Action: Strengthening Our Future

Ellis on 1 April, 2025

Picture shows Steve Somerfield (L) former chair of Volunteer Midlothian and Richard Fairbairn (R) former chair of Midlothian Voluntary Action signing the legal papers to enact the merger and form Midlothian Community Action.

We are pleased to announce the merger between Midlothian Voluntary Action and Volunteer Midlothian to form Midlothian Community Action (MCA). This union comes as a natural next step; combining the resources and expertise of both organisations, creating a stronger team dedicated to the third sector. 

Midlothian Community Action is the the single point of access for support and advice for the third sector and volunteers. We provide access to a team of experts, a tailor-made training programme and a volunteer matching and support service – as well as acting as a voice for the sector.

Our aims are:

·       That people in Midlothian are aware of and can access volunteering opportunities

·       Local people and organisations have their voices amplified in Community Planning

·       To deliver high quality training and development for third sector organisations

·       To foster strong partnerships between the sector and statutory services

·       Promote the third sector and giving it a unified voice

Midlothian Voluntary Action celebrated its 50th year anniversary in 2024 and Volunteer Midlothian marked its 40th this year, together having a combined 90 years of experience serving communities and voluntary organisations in Midlothian. 

We may look a little different but MCA will continue to be the local Third Sector Interface (TSI) and support community groups, charities, social enterprises, volunteers, and volunteer involving organisations. Third Sector Interfaces are located in each of the 32 Scottish local authorities.

Dr Lesley Kelly, Chief Officer of Midlothian Community Action

“We are thrilled about the merger and to continue the valuable work of supporting and promoting a dynamic and active third sector in Midlothian. The sector faces a challenging time with continued cuts to funding and we will continue to advocate for more resources and support communities.”

    We’re in the news! Read more details about our merger in Third Sector’s article here.

    Contact us via our new email address info@mca.scot or find us on social media at the links below.

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    Midlothian Voluntary Action and Volunteer Midlothian are Merging!

    Ellis on 25 March, 2025

    We have some exciting news to share, Midlothian Voluntary Action and Volunteer Midlothian are merging. On Tuesday 1 April 2025, we’ll be announcing our new name and branding. 

    We already share an office and staff, so by further combining our resources and expertise, we will be able to serve our communities even better. Once merged we will continue to be the voice and home of quality support for third sector organisations and volunteers in Midlothian. 

    Don’t worry, nothing is changing when it comes to the services, guidance, or training we offer. We may look a little different, but we’re still the Midlothian Third Sector Interface – your first point of contact for third sector organisations and volunteers in Midlothian.

    Our new website will launch on April 1st – we’ll see you there! 

    Volunteer Voices: Transform Project

    Ellis on 18 February, 2025

    As part of the National Volunteer Recruitment Campaign, we aim to promote volunteering by highlighting the experiences of volunteers in Midlothian. By looking at their journeys into volunteering and the impact it has had on their lives, we hope to inspire potential future volunteers.

    We’re excited to share a story from one of Volunteer Midlothian’s own volunteers, Callum. He volunteers with our Transform Project, helping out in the community garden. Listen to his volunteering story by watching the video below:

    “I can say wholeheartedly the positive impact it’s given my life.”

    Video created by Caleb Akpo-Young.

    Volunteer Voices: Midlothian Sure Start

    Ellis on 11 February, 2025

    Once more we are pleased to highlight a story from a local volunteer, as part of the National Volunteer Recruitment Campaign #VolunteeringForAll.

    In this piece, Monika describes her current experience volunteering on a project with one of our member organisations, Midlothian Sure Start. She also discusses her search for volunteering roles before finding her place at Midlothian Sure Start.

    “Thanks to this project I am growing as a person, meeting new people, making new friends, and feeling like a part of our community.“

    Monika

    Volunteer at Midlothian Sure Start

    “I am Monika, one of the 13 trained volunteers that are working on the “Our stories” project that is led by Midlothian Sure Start. The project is sponsored by Midlothian Council and funded by the Scottish Government’s Child Poverty Accelerator Fund.
    We, the researchers, are all different and come from different backgrounds and possess different skill sets that complement each other. We all have lived experience when it comes to children’s poverty, hence our passionate approach to the topic.

    We had a 6-week course (one group is based in Dalkeith, one in Penicuik) preparing us for working on our community research project that involves talking to local families with children who experienced or are currently experiencing either absolute or relative poverty.
    In general, we are aiming to talk to 100 families by December. Before that, we are hoping to talk to the majority of families to identify common struggles and to then present them to The Scottish Government in October during Poverty Week and propose some changes.
    At the same time, we are hoping to show some of the stories in a creative way during our exhibition in October and January.

    Our community project is the first of its kind in Midlothian, we don’t have any ‘set structure’ and we learn as we go. Our group is very creative when it comes to working on exhibitions, and I would love to say the sky is the limit, but, unfortunately, we have a limited budget, and we need to find more budget friendly ways to express our findings. Each of us devote their free time as much as we can, talk to others at various events, like today’s one, share news about our project on radio etc.

    I feel supported by Tim and his managers, I believe I could ask for their guidance or help with anything. And if you know Tim, you know he is ready to help anybody 24/7.

    My personal journey has been an interesting one and I believe everything happens for a reason. As my kids are very young (the oldest one was 3.5 years old when my third kid was born) and I was working full time and part time, I had limited opportunities to volunteer. We don’t have any family in the UK, and I felt that by contributing to our community it would make me a part of it. I contacted two places in Penicuik within the last year where I could put my skills to use but, in the end, nothing came out of it. I ended up on Sure Start’s emailing list and just one day contacted Tim about the project he was starting as I was curious what it was.

    Fast forward a few months, I am helping with interviews, meeting new people, creating exhibits based on the stories we collected. If you told me last January I would be writing poems, a song with a professional singer and writer, or using my passion for photography, I would simply not believe you. Thanks to this project I am growing as a person, meeting new people, making new friends, and feeling like a part of our community.

    I had recently learnt that I love listening to people and decided to become a counselor in the future. I have already planned the studies and plan to apply for the next term. I am very excited about it as I will be able to help people and learn new skills”.

      Volunteer Voices: Penicuik Storehouse

      Ellis on 6 February, 2025

      As part of the National Volunteer Recruitment Campaign, we aim to promote volunteering by highlighting the experiences of volunteers in Midlothian. By looking at their journeys into volunteering and the impact it has had on their lives, we hope to inspire potential future volunteers.

      We’re excited to share a range of stories from volunteers at Penicuik Storehouse. They are a community-owned cooperative with a mission to bring the community together, to promote sustainable living, and to encourage healthy eating for all.

      “The staff are lovely, friendly, and always grateful for the volunteers.”

      Jackie

      Volunteer at Penicuik Storehouse

      “My name is Jackie.  I am 57 years old and I volunteer in the shop at the Penicuik Storehouse. I started volunteering here almost one year ago and I love it. I decided to begin volunteering after having to stop work some years ago due to chronic illness. I became quite isolated and wanted to give something back when I felt well enough.
      Although it can be stressful when busy, everyone takes a laid-back approach which is great. They put your needs as priority. For example, I struggle with fatigue and pain. I only have to request, and help is always there. A seat, a coffee, a wee break.

      What I enjoy most is the socialising. Meeting new people and chatting. The staff are lovely, friendly, and always grateful for the volunteers.  What I have experienced personally from volunteering is my self-esteem returning and a build-up of confidence generally.
      I would highly recommend to anyone thinking of volunteering to do so at the Penicuik Storehouse.  It really is a lovely place to work”.

        Alan

        Volunteer at Penicuik Storehouse

        “I started at the Storehouse with no idea what it was about.  All I wanted was to keep on helping within my community. Heck, I thought I would only do a couple of hours a week then I was asked if I could do the Community Lunch. 
        I thought sure and it was chaos. I had no idea.  But I was helped and learned and Iove the challenge and buzz of cooking for our customers’ community. I love trying to think of new recipes”.  

          Louise

          Volunteer at Penicuik Storehouse

          “I have been volunteering at Penicuik Storehouse for almost 2 years.  The reason I started volunteering at the Storehouse was to get out of the house and meet people.  When volunteering, I work on the till and serve customers.  Recently I have learned how to write down customer orders for the café.
           
          I have gained confidence since volunteering at the Storehouse and like to try new things.  I like meeting new people and also new staff too and I love to work on the till with my buddy and like to see my pal from Bonnyrigg too.
          I would recommend volunteering at the Storehouse.  My advice is, ‘Try your best and have fun with it!’”

            Volunteer Voices: The Steading, Rosewell

            Ellis on 4 February, 2025

            As part of the National Volunteer Recruitment Campaign, we aim to promote volunteering by highlighting the experiences of volunteers in Midlothian. By looking at their journeys into volunteering and the impact it has had on their lives, we hope to inspire potential future volunteers.

            We’re pleased to share a story from a volunteer named Marion. She volunteers with The Steading (Rosewell Development Trust), a vibrant hub that offers a range of activities and services to the community.

            Marion

            Volunteer at The Steading

            “Soon after I retired and moved to Rosewell, I began to volunteer at the R.D.T. pensioners lunch club. Here I really saw the direct impact of volunteering and the different challenges faced by others.

            It’s always fun and just a pleasure to listen to the stories and tales of the pensioners lives and hear about the history of the village and its residents.

            I have become very good friends with my co-volunteer and together we enjoy coffee or lunches and meet up occasionally. We both feel very much part of the local community!

            About a year ago I helped set up a ladies table tennis group. It started with a few local ladies joining and now about 12 ladies play on a regular basis. It’s a fun class, full of laughter and it’s a safe space for us all.
            Afterward we have tea and coffee, and it’s here that lots of lasting friendships have been made.
            Many of the ladies, myself included, have felt our fitness levels have improved and we have confidence to play with other groups, some of us now play 3-4 times per week.
            The highlight is when we play with the local men’s team (once a month). They coach us and encourage our play and treat us to coffee and cake.

            For me, volunteering is a fulfilling experience offering social connections and leading to great friendships”.

              Volunteer Voices: HCL Transport Lothian

              Ellis on 30 January, 2025

              As part of the National Volunteer Recruitment Campaign, we aim to promote volunteering by highlighting the experiences of volunteers in Midlothian. By looking at their journeys into volunteering and the impact it has had on their lives, we hope to inspire potential future volunteers.

              We’re happy to share a story from a volunteer driver named John. He volunteers with HCL Transport, a local charity that provide essential services that support people of any age who have mobility challenges.

              “I would encourage everyone to get involved in the volunteer sector if they are able, as many groups and organisations are crying out for help. There is a role out there for everyone!”

              John

              Volunteer Driver at HCL

              “I retired in 2019 after 30 years as a Police Officer and then lockdown hit.
              My wife had been a nurse for over 40 years until her retirement in 2017, and with the arrival of the pandemic, she volunteered to go to a COVID Ward to help out and ultimately to assist in the vaccination programme.
              I felt like I should also try and help out, so in June 2020, volunteered to be a telephone befriender via the Midlothian group ‘Fancy a Blether’. I was given two older gentlemen to engage with over the phone once a week and did so for the next year. To be honest, I found it difficult to keep the conversation going at times and ultimately realised this type of role wasn’t a good fit for me.
               
              I then got in contact with the Edinburgh Food Project at Sighthill and did some work there for a few weeks, before moving on to support the work at the Vaccination Centre at The Royal Highland Showground.  This was a massive operation and the role involved welcoming people to the Centre, providing information and reassurance to them before and after vaccination.
               
              The travelling to and from the Showground proved to be problematic so in March 2021 I started to cover the Vaccination Centre at Gorebridge Leisure Centre and worked there until February 2022.
               
              In March that year I began working as a volunteer driver with HCL Transport, based at Loanhead, who provide supported accessible transport for people with mobility challenges in Edinburgh and the Lothians. 
               
              I’m still working there today and having done a variety of roles, I’ve eventually found the one that best suits me. I enjoy the driving and meeting the service users who absolutely rely on us to get out and about. As a volunteer I can be really flexible about when I work and the company are always happy when I’m available to help out.
               
              I would encourage everyone to get involved in the volunteer sector if they are able, as many groups and organisations are crying out for help. There is a role out there for everyone!”