Grassmarket Community Project in Edinburgh (The Awakening)

Activity description

Grassmarket Community Project is a UK (Scottish) registered Charity which supports vulnerable and marginalised adults with support needs. These support needs include: mental health issues, physical impairments, learning disabilities, social isolation, homelessness and recovery from addictions. We provide a varied programme of cultural programmes and educational activities including: literacy classes, numeracy, IT, art, drama, book clubs, creative writing and photography. We also train, support and employ ex-members in 4 social businesses, including a tartan weaving and a furniture making workshop, which generate income for the charity whilst training them in vital skills and increasing their self-worth, independence and confidence. We seek to change the face of services to homeless adults and people with mental health issues by providing a safe, secure, bright and dynamic space where they can participate in stimulating and nurturing activities.

Accommodation, food and transport arrangements

The accommodation arranged by the GCP is at a host family with own private room and shared bathroom and kitchen. This has been found to be a secure, safe and nurturing option - allowing the participant to make maximum use of their free time, whilst having all modern practicalities, conveniences and comforts such as laundry, cooking, Internet and heating guaranteed and taken care of. Travel to the Community Centre would be reimbursed. Alternatively, the EVS participant may have free hire of a bike during their stay and the city enjoys excellent cycle ways!

Training during the activity

Volunteers will attend the EVS on-arrival and mid-term training. GCP will offer in-house certification of learning. The participant will also have the opportunity to participate in the John Muir Awards alongside the beneficiaries. GCP also use recognised training providers to certificate key training and qualifications. This includes the possibility to attend the following training sessions: First Aid Medical, Food Safety Hygiene and Walking Group Leader.

Participant profile

They would demonstrate to respect all persons regardless of ability, background, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender. They would also demonstrate an interest in learning about Scottish/UK culture and local customs as well as be interested in working with people from disadvantaged backgrounds, sharing the daily life of the community including mealtimes and group tasks. The ideal volunteers will be enthusiastic to learn new practical skills while assisting in the delivery of sessions in a range of practical, training, creative and educational activities for the community members.

Activity dates

A total of 13 week(s) during the period 01/11/2019 to 31/01/2020

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Activity location

Edinburgh United Kingdom

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Looking for participants from

Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Ireland, Poland, Portugal

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Activity topics

Social challenges

Citizenship and democratic participation

Health and wellbeing

Education and training

Creativity and culture

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Deadline for applications

No application deadline

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