While many of us are just settling into the rhythm of 2026, navigating the cold start to the year and a shifting global landscape, I want to begin by expressing my gratitude to the staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly throughout the festive period. Your dedication to supporting those in our city facing loneliness or hardship is the backbone of Edinburgh’s community spirit.
An Invitation to Our 156th AGM
We would be delighted to have you join us for EVOC’s 156th AGM:
Thu 29 Jan, 4:30pm to 6pm @ Meadowbank Sports Centre
During the session, we will present the audited accounts for the financial year ending 31 March 2025. As many of you know, this was a particularly challenging period for EVOC, and we look forward to sharing our progress and reflections with you.
Funding and Policy Updates
There is positive news regarding the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund. Following the First Minister’s announcement of an additional £3 million for the fund, Edinburgh will receive a further £247,852. This additional investment will allow more local organisations to deliver vital projects and improve mental health outcomes across our communities in the year 2026/27.
Regarding the Scottish Government’s recent budget announcement, we welcome the prioritisation of the NHS and the commitment to tackling child poverty, key pillars in addressing the health inequalities we see every day. While the full implications for the third sector will take time to emerge, our focus now shifts to the City of Edinburgh Council budget process. We have been working to influence these decisions and will continue to champion the interests of the sector in our public sector partnerships.
Our Commitment to You
For EVOC, 2025 was a year of rebuilding and consolidation. As we move into 2026, our commitment to supporting you remains our top priority. We recognise the need for greater clarity regarding our advocacy work and the specific support we offer our members. So, in the coming weeks, you can expect to see a refreshed approach to our communications. We want to ensure you are fully informed of how we are working on your behalf, and we always welcome your feedback, questions, and ideas on how we can serve you better.
Thank you for everything you do for the people of Edinburgh – we look forward to working with and for you in 2026.
Bruce Crawford, CEO
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