To identify local priorities, within the scope of the national guidance, we have reviewed various reports and evidence gathered through the work of the third sector, EVOC and previous years’ data, the Edinburgh Partnership (and its associated community planning structures), the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership and data from Capital City Partnership.
Social Isolation: We would like to see activities that target reducing social isolation in general, but specifically for older people and those from within a BAME community, refugees or the LGBTQI community. For those aged 16-24, we are keen to see activities that encourage peer support and opportunities to connect. We would be especially keen to see applications that supported intergenerational work.
Suicide Prevention: We would like to see activities that directly or indirectly support lowering the risk of suicide or crisis intervention. We know the risks are wide-ranging and any activity that can demonstrate a link supporting people in distress and or risk of suicide is welcomed, especially for the priority groups.
Poverty: Research indicates that living on a low income or uncertain income can generate a significant amount of stress and contribute to poor wellbeing. The fund would like to see applications for activities that can support the issues that address the mental health challenges that arise due to poverty. We would specifically like to see activities for individuals and families living in temporary accommodation and those with no access to public funds in Edinburgh. Note this does not include dealing with immediate crisis interventions, such as access to food or fuel costs, however, an event that brought people together where they could get access to additional food or essentials packs would be welcome.
At the collaboration event, there will be an opportunity to discuss local priorities further and for those applying to outline their own priorities.
