Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for Adults: impact report - year 3 (2023-24)

Annex A

Case Studies:

Blantyre Old Parish Church: Warm Welcome, (South Lanarkshire)

Overview

The project aimed to create a welcoming, community-led warm space where people could enjoy a free lunch once a week, combat loneliness, and receive wrap-around support.

Target Audience

• Older adults (50+)
• People experiencing socio-economic disadvantage
• Individuals with long-term health conditions or disabilities

Services Provided

• Weekly warm space with a free hot lunch
• Tailored food bags (including staples like long-life milk)
• Signposting and support from third-sector and statutory services (e.g., financial advice, mental health resources)
• Social connection through informal gatherings and volunteer-facilitated introductions
• Free mini-bus transport for those with mobility or financial constraints
• Informal peer-to-peer learning (e.g., cooking and budgeting tips)

Impact

• Reach & Engagement: The project supported 60 individuals weekly, 25% of whom were new each time. Attendees travelled from beyond the local area.
• Social Well-being: Reduced loneliness, strengthened friendships, and a dependable space for community connection.
• Practical Support: The project helped alleviate financial stress with meals and grocery bags; attendees expressed tangible emotional relief.
• Service Alignment: Real-time feedback shaped offerings — e.g., adjusting food bag contents to meet expressed needs.
• Empowerment & Skill Sharing: Attendees shared advice and experiences, cultivating a sense of purpose and reciprocity.
• Community Partnerships: The project resulted in strengthened collaboration between volunteers, local organisations, and transport providers.
• Evidence & Evaluation: Positive survey results, informal observations, and attendance records demonstrated growing demand.
• Sustainability: The project continued operation beyond the initial funding period; visible outreach (e.g. church banner) drew 20% of participants.

“The primary goal was to provide a welcoming community space where people could enjoy a free warm lunch once a week. The project aimed to reduce social isolation and loneliness while improving participants’ mental and physical well-being … The warm, friendly atmosphere helped foster connections, support well-being, and build a sense of belonging within the community.”

A variety of projects responded to the evaluation questions with a wide range of aims, activities and support offered. This varied from specific counselling and therapeutic support, to social activities designed to enhance mental well-being and involvement with local communities.

The Lighthouse for Perth (Perth & Kinross)

Overview

The Lighthouse for Perth, in partnership with The Neuk, delivered immediate, no-waitlist mental health crisis support to adults aged 16+. Their unique, trauma-informed model blended family-centred and individualised care to prevent suicidal behaviours and build resilience within family units.

Target Audience

• Families (a young person (16+) and/or parent/carer) which require crisis support
• Individuals with diagnosed/undiagnosed mental illness, trauma or bereavement
• LGBTQ+ individuals
• Vulnerable and rurally located adults
• People experiencing poverty and other inequalities
• Ethnic minority groups

Services Provided

• Immediate-access 1:1 mental health support in a non-clinical, judgement-free space

• Parallel support sessions for young people (16–18) and their parent/carer, via two charities:

  • Lighthouse: using Crisis Management Plans (CMPs)
  • The Neuk: using Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAPs)
• Flexible support duration (typically 6–12 sessions)
• Delivery by trained SIPP and ASIST practitioners
• Responsive, demand-led approach — no pre-scheduled activities

Impact

• High Uptake: 95% of families offered joint support accepted it
• Positive Outcomes: 100 out of 102 families reported improved well-being on discharge
• Life-Changing Feedback: Families described the service as transformative, rebuilding emotional connection and communication
• Barrier-Free Access: No waiting lists; self-referral accepted through walk-in, phone or online contact
• System-Wide Impact: Reduced pressure on clinical services; increased collaboration with other agencies to tackle poverty, trauma and inequality holistically
• Ongoing Development: Commitment to sustaining responsive care and refining services based on client and family feedback
• Challenges Handled: Missed or rescheduled appointments acknowledged as part of a trauma-informed approach; handled with flexibility and compassion

“We provide one to one support sessions, ensuring they can maintain their own confidentiality boundaries in a safe, non-judgemental way, which will in turn give them the tools to continue to support each other, building resilience and recovery within the family unit.”

Let's All Talk North East Mums (LANTEM) Peer Support (Aberdeenshire)

Overview

LATNEM provided free, peer-led mental health support for women and families. The project fostered a safe, non-judgemental space through in-person and online peer support, one-to-one sessions, and creative journaling. Its holistic, trauma-informed approach supported mental wellbeing and empowered individuals through emotional literacy, signposting, and practical assistance.

Target Audience

• Women with perinatal mental health concerns
• Individuals experiencing trauma, bereavement, diagnosed mental illness
• People living in geographically remote or rural areas
• Families experiencing poverty or barriers to accessing formal support services

Services Provided

• Peer Support Groups: 21 in-person and 29 online meetings (232 attendees total)
• One-to-One Support: 27 individual sessions
• Creative Journaling (Maternal Journal): 5 in-person sessions, 50 participants
• Peer Support and Play: 1 family-friendly session with 10 attendees
• Care Packs: 50 general and 10 “Mummy and Me” packs for those in crisis
• Maternal Journal Kits: 50 distributed to encourage self-care through creative expression
• Volunteer Development: Training provided in Mental Health First Aid and general first aid, including the recruitment of five new volunteers
• Signposting: Referrals to NHS Grampian’s Perinatal Mental Health Team, financial assistance, and foodbank resources
• Flexible Delivery: Outdoor meetings in summer, room hire for crafting/training, and supplemental sessions funded through underspend

Impact

• 279 total service users supported across varied formats
• 90% reported reduced isolation; 100% of those surveyed said they made new friendships
• 80% noted improved wellbeing, child health, and resilience
• 45% gained improved access to specialist care as a direct result of LATNEM’s signposting
• Transformational Outcomes: Testimonials reference lifesaving support, enhanced self-worth, and renewed familial bonds
• Volunteer Pathways: Former service users contribute as peer mentors

“The fund allowed 21 in-person mental health peer support group meetings to be held, with 87 attendees in total and 29 online mental health peer support group meetings with 145 attendees.”

A number of projects sought to directly address social isolation and loneliness by bringing people together in breakfast/lunch club formats or by organising trips or events:

Raploch Elderly Lunch Club (South Lanarkshire)

Overview

The project aimed to enhance social connection, wellbeing, and cultural engagement during the winter months. The initiative evolved and the project delivered nine themed sessions, providing warmth, laughter, and learning opportunities for attendees. One adaptation included reallocating unused transport funds to purchase heating belts, to improve both comfort and cost-of-living resilience for participants.

Target Audience

• Older people (aged 50+), especially those at risk of social isolation
• Individuals experiencing socio-economic hardship
• People with long-term health conditions or disabilities
• Women, including those affected by gender-based violence

Services Provided

• Nine extended monthly lunch club sessions (up from six planned), featuring local heritage speakers, cultural events, and entertainment
• Burns supper event and storytelling-focused programming to encourage participation and learning
• Provision of taxi fare support to help the most vulnerable attend sessions
• Reallocation of transport funds to provide heating belts, addressing winter wellbeing and fuel poverty concerns

Impact

• Participation surpassed expectations, with members eagerly engaging and contributing to the life of the club
• Members described the club as "life-changing," citing improved mood, reduced loneliness, and a greater sense of belonging
• The club inspired grassroots fundraising, fostering collective ownership and sustainability
• Regular engagement created stronger friendships and peer learning, with storytelling and music encouraging emotional expression and connection
• Adaptive service delivery — including heating support — ensured needs were met beyond social engagement
• Survey results indicated clear improvements in mental health, motivation, and sense of purpose, even during challenging winter conditions

“Our project exceeded expectations. While some activities were adapted, we successfully hosted nine extended lunch club sessions instead of the planned six. These sessions fostered greater interaction, shared learning, and provided warmth, comfort, and joy for our members.”

Food was a common way for projects to bring people together socially to combat isolation and loneliness and as a means of engaging them with further project work or helping people integrate with their local communities.

Creative Connections (Falkirk)

Overview

The project offered an 8-week personal development programme delivered four times over the funding period. Designed with and for young people (aged 16+), it integrated mental health and wellbeing workshops with creative, social, and community-based activities. To help participants build confidence, improve wellbeing, and overcome the impact of adverse childhood experiences, equipping them to pursue further education, employment, or training.

Target Audience

• Young people aged 16+
• Individuals with physical disabilities, neurodiversity, mental health conditions
• Participants from diverse ethnic, gender, and familial backgrounds

Services Provided

• Wellbeing Workshops on topics such as anxiety, self-esteem, communication, and sleep
• Creative Activities: baking, candle making, drawing, animation, mosaics, and more
• Community Projects: litter picks, foodbank visits, gardening, and volunteering
• Social & Life Skills: team building, leadership, nutrition, and social media literacy workshops and activities.
• Personal Development: conflict resolution and goal setting workshops and activities, alongside celebration/evaluation days
• Individual Progress Tracking: using WEMWBS wellbeing scale
• Outcome Planning: support into training, employment, or further services

Impact

• 47 participants completed the programme (out of 50 registered)
• 85% completion rate, with all non-starters signposted to other support
• 97% of participants reported increased confidence
• 81% moved on to education, training, employment or volunteering
• 95% experienced improved mental wellbeing
• 82% gained clarity on next steps toward their ambitions
• Participants cited making friends, gaining routine, and growing in self-worth as key takeaways
• All participants said the course felt inclusive and supportive

Some projects brought people together by encouraging them to create using arts and crafts, music, or film:

JamShed (Angus)

Overview

The project aimed to deepen its impact through regular music sessions to foster connection, build confidence, and promote wellbeing. The project was designed for adults of all musical abilities, and emphasized participant-led exploration, informal performance, and creative collaboration. The sessions supported individual growth and collective ownership, with music as the focus and vehicle for social and emotional development.

Target Audience

• Adults from diverse backgrounds seeking community and creativity
• People experiencing social isolation, anxiety, or low confidence
• Individuals in recovery or living with long-term mental or physical health conditions
• More experienced musicians looking for inclusive, low-pressure environments

Services Provided

• Three weekly music sessions over the course of a year
• Peer-led music-making for beginners and experienced players alike
• Opportunities for performance and the organic formation of small bands
• Supportive, inclusive group environment where skills and encouragement are shared
• Commemorative initiatives, including a band formed in memory of a late member

Impact

• 77 individuals participated throughout the year
• A participant-led group became a fully constituted charity with its own premises, extending JamShed’s legacy
• Music as connection: Participants formed lasting friendships and support networks
• Wellbeing outcomes: Reported boosts in confidence, reduced isolation, increased joy and structure
• Creative empowerment: Members took on leadership roles, tried new instruments, and gained the courage to perform
• Community resilience: The post-funding evolution of the project into an independent entity demonstrates sustainable impact

“We expected to continue running regular, welcoming music sessions that bring people together—whether they’re experienced players or complete beginners. We also aimed to support the formation of smaller bands within the group, offer opportunities for informal performance, and use music as a tool for wellbeing, creativity, and team-building. That all happened, and more.“

Other projects offered access to physical activity and sport to address social isolation but often also to develop skills in leadership and teamwork.

LEAP Sports, (North Ayrshire)

Overview

The Rainbow Activity Hub was established to improve the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTIQ+ adults by providing inclusive physical activities, outdoor pursuits, and community-building opportunities. The project delivered a 12-month programme ranging from walk-and-talks to paddleboarding, tango, and curling, while supporting participants to build confidence, reduce isolation, and strengthen their connection to identity. The programme also focused on creating sustainable community-led activity groups and increasing LGBTIQ+ representation in sport and physical activity.

Target Audience

• Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and other LGBTIQ+ identifying individuals
• Majority aged 40+, with 64% of participants identifying as male
• Individuals facing social isolation, reduced confidence, mobility challenges, or limited access to inclusive activity spaces

Services Provided

• Weekly mixed physical activity sessions (indoor and outdoor)
• Activities tailored to a wide range of abilities (e.g. walking, paddleboarding, curling, climbing)
• Informal social events, including attendance at Arran Pride and Festival Fortnight
• Development of community-led groups: LEAP on Board (paddleboarding), a climbing group, and an emerging queer walking group
• Training and capacity-building for volunteers and future group leaders
• Partner engagement and the early stages of inclusive provider development sessions

Impact

• 96 individuals engaged with the programme in its first year
• Participants reported improved mental and physical wellbeing, increased confidence, and strengthened identity connection
• New friendships and informal support networks formed, with activities often described as "lifelines"
• LEAP on Board and other groups provide ongoing, peer-led opportunities beyond the life of the funded programme
• Some participants, initially hesitant due to visibility or identity concerns, grew to engage fully and support others
• Feedback indicated that, for some, group activities provided their only in-person social contact each week

“We set up and delivered a programme of mixed physical activity utilising outdoor spaces, and activity based indoor facilities across North Ayrshire, worked on sustainable longer-term sports clubs, and helped participants to develop their own skills around accessing outdoors, physical activity and sport. We helped participants to progress to become organisers as well as recruiting volunteers directly to support with organising of activity, delivering capacity building and leadership activity.”

There were some projects aimed at those facing socio-economic disadvantage that provided services ranging from financial and budgeting advice to the provision of food. There were advocacy and advice projects who offered support to those with mental health issues on a variety of topics, such as housing:

Be Well Barrhead (East Renfrewshire)

Overview

The project was designed to prevent tenancy breakdown among tenants aged 16+, it offered trauma-informed, person-centred support to help individuals manage mental health challenges impacting their housing stability. The project prioritised rapid access to specialist support and links tenants to broader wellbeing services.

Target Audience

• BHA tenants aged 16 and over
• Individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma or family-related distress
• Residents at risk of tenancy breakdown due to poor mental health
• People with previous or no prior engagement with RAMH services (44% new referrals)

Services Provided

• Up to 12 one-to-one support sessions per participant focused on emotional and practical wellbeing
• Rapid response system with RAMH contacting participants within 24–48 hours of referral
• Trauma-informed counselling, self-management tools, and employability/education support
• Direct links to tenancy, financial, fuel and cost-of-living support via BHA services
• Trauma-informed training for 15 BHA staff, equipping them to identify and respond to tenant needs

Impact

• 20 tenants supported through 121 sessions (90% of target achieved)
• 44% of referrals were first-time RAMH service users
• Clients reported increased optimism, better coping, and improved emotional wellbeing
• Positive participant feedback highlighted appreciation for fast access, empathetic listening, and practical support
• Increased staff capacity to deliver trauma-informed tenancy support
• Use of CORE, SWEMWBS and UK Social Value Toolkit allowed quantitative measurement of psychological improvement and enhanced life satisfaction indicators

“This specialised tenancy support service was for BHA tenants, aged 16 and over, who identified that they are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing which was having an impact on their ability to positively manage their tenancy. This community-based initiative provides tailored support for mental ill health and distress to prevent tenancy breakdown.”

Some projects offered direct or indirect financial support to participants who were impacted by the cost of living crisis, for example:

Saltcoats Link Up Project (North Ayrshire)

Overview

The project delivered a wide-ranging programme of community-based activity designed to promote wellbeing, prevent social isolation, strengthen families, and build local capacity. The project combined practical supports, peer networks, and family-friendly engagement, the programme addressed social determinants of mental health while fostering a culture of participation and mutual care.

Target Audience

• Individuals and families in Saltcoats and surrounding areas experiencing mental health challenges, financial stress, or social isolation
• Residents facing significant hardship or crisis
• Children and parents seeking connection and support during school holidays
• Community volunteers and peer mentors committed to local change

Services Provided

• Nine core community activities, including walking, cooking, gardening, and social groups
• Holiday events for families, fostering play, bonding, and emotional relief
• Mental Health and Wellbeing Directory distribution, enhancing crisis support access and suicide prevention
• Gift Giving Project: 580 festive gift bags valued at ~£60 each, tailored for vulnerable children and families
• Community Shop & food access support, with growing membership (243 → 310)
• Volunteer-led initiatives addressing mental health and hardship
• Development of 5 trained Community Mentors offering one-to-one peer support
• Personalised strengths-based casework and signposting
• Mental Health Network events and awareness-raising campaigns

Impact

• Improved access to mental health support, especially for those facing addiction, isolation, or disadvantage
• Stigma reduction through everyday sharing of suicide prevention materials
• Family outcomes: stronger bonds, reduced stress, increased joy and confidence
• Community empowerment: volunteers designing, leading, and sustaining priority interventions
• Wider resilience: growth in peer networks, self-efficacy, and mutual aid culture
• Gift Giving Project ensured dignity and emotional uplift during the festive season for hundreds of children
• Sustainable networks

“The Community Shop operated for 50 weeks during the year, serving 60-70 families per week. In total, 149 families utilised the Community Shop services during this period … 46 new community shop members joining during this period”

There were projects that aimed to improve the integration of refugees and those for whom English was not a first language by providing language training alongside other activities. To help foster community involvement and cohesion.

Language Exchange and Chat Cafe, Pilton Community Health Project (Edinburgh)

Overview

The project offered safe, inclusive, women-only spaces designed to reduce social isolation, improve mental wellbeing, and build confidence among migrant-experienced and local women. Through cooking, language classes, and wellbeing-focused activities, the project fostered connection, skill-building, and empowerment in a culturally sensitive environment.

Target Audience

• Migrant-experienced women, including recent arrivals
• Local women experiencing social isolation
• Women with limited or no English language skills
• Women facing cultural, emotional, or socioeconomic barriers to community participation

Services Provided

• 55 Language Exchange sessions (target: 50), including group and individual support
• Weekly cooking and recipe-sharing sessions, celebrating cultural heritage
• Informal English language classes, tailored to real-life scenarios like GP visits and household bills
• Pop-up language summer schools, held outdoors for informal learning
• Breathing Room sessions teaching mindfulness, stress management, and accessible wellbeing practices
• Wellbeing Toolkit and childcare pop-up workshops in collaboration with Health in Mind and North Edinburgh Childcare
• Ongoing signposting to services, community support, volunteering, and employment

Impact

• 74 women engaged, 38 new to PCHP
• Stronger social connections formed through shared meals, storytelling, and language learning
• Improved wellbeing and reduced isolation, especially via breathing sessions and cultural integration
• Boost in confidence and communication, with women beginning to speak more English, share personal experiences, and lead group activities
• Pathways to empowerment: several women became volunteers, and three gained employment
• Cultural pride and exchange promoted through the celebration of diverse cuisines, identities, and mutual learning

“The weekly recipe-sharing and cooking sessions create a welcoming environment where women can bond over shared culinary experiences. Many participants do not speak English as their first language, but food acts as a bridge, allowing them to connect through senses, gestures, and expressions. These sessions are not just about cooking—they’re about celebrating diversity and fostering understanding among women from different backgrounds.”

The development and empowerment of volunteers was another common theme across responses, with some projects investing in volunteer training to support the further delivery of their projects and personal and professional development of their volunteers. For example:

Cruse Scotland - Early Support for Recently Bereaved Adults (North Lanarkshire)

Overview

This project offered rapid, early intervention grief support to adults bereaved. Through specially trained volunteers, the programme delivered one-to-one and group-based emotional support, with the aim of alleviating distress, validating normal grief responses, and helping individuals access further services. The initiative not only exceeded its original reach target but also delivered compassionate, trauma-informed support where it was needed most.

Target Audience

• Adults aged 19–83 in North Lanarkshire
• Recently bereaved (less than six months)
• Individuals facing complicated grief due to factors such as suicide, sudden loss, poverty, addiction, or family breakdown

Services Provided

• Early Support training for 7 community-based volunteers (464 hours delivered)
• 86 one-to-one support sessions and 6 small group sessions
• Participant satisfaction and wellbeing evaluation using WEMWBS and bespoke surveys
• Flexible service approach adjusted mid-project to allow additional sessions upon request
• Referral support via GP, helpline, and community partners
• Signposting to further mental health services

Impact

• 69 individuals supported (target: 60)
• 86% understood their grief better
• 95% felt reassured their feelings were normal
• 81% knew how to access further help
• 93% described volunteers as supportive
• Personal feedback highlighted the relief and validation gained from speaking with someone outside their immediate network
• 2 new volunteers were recruited through Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire

“In April we ran an Early Support training course to equip volunteers with the skills and confidence to support recently bereaved people in distress. Since 1 April 2024, these volunteers have supported a total 69 people.”

Many responses highlighted the importance of collaborating with other local partners to deliver services to their local communities. Noting the benefits of collaboration with existing partners and forging links with new partners to improve the mental health and wellbeing of their communities. This could take the form of signposting individuals to other services locally, working specifically with those organisations to deliver services or activities, or identifying and collaborating with new partners to allow service users to access activities they might not otherwise have been able to.

“We've also worked with partners and mainstream activity providers to come together to focus on increasing the participation of LGBTIQ+ people in their own work. The actual activities delivered have been wide ranging and varied from walk and talk sessions, to Tango Lessons, gentle activities like bowling and curling and to more endurance and active activities such as climbing, cycling and paddleboarding.”

LEAP Sports (North Ayrshire)

What were the projects’ achievements?

Respondents were asked if there were any achievements to date that they were particularly proud of, or that demonstrated the difference their projects made to individuals. Most projects were able to provide details of positive feedback they had received from participants that highlighted the sometimes transformational nature of their projects.

Increased social connection was a strong theme across the responses with many projects reporting how bringing people together and seeing them becoming more involved and connected in their local communities had made them proud. This did not only apply to projects specifically designed to alleviate social isolation and loneliness but also arose as a by-product of other activities and services offered by projects.

East Renfrewshire Carers Centre (East Renfrewshire)

Overview

This project offered a comprehensive support programme for unpaid carers. Through monthly coffee mornings, mindfulness and yoga sessions, and quarterly wellbeing centre visits, carers were given opportunities to reduce isolation, share experiences, and prioritise their own mental and physical health. The initiative focused on peer support, particularly among male and ethnic minority carers.

Target Audience

• Unpaid carers (including older adults and ethnic minority families)
• Individuals supporting loved ones with physical or mental health conditions
• Carers at risk of stress, anxiety, or social isolation
• Families with disabled members

Services Provided

• 12 monthly coffee mornings: Social and peer support opportunities in a relaxed environment
• 12 yoga and mindfulness sessions: Promoting relaxation, stress relief, and improved emotional wellbeing
• 4 therapeutic visits to a dedicated Health and Wellbeing Centre
• Monthly male carers’ peer support group: A safe space for men to share caregiving challenges
• Targeted BAME support: Including community-specific activities (with recognition of ongoing staffing challenges)

Impact

• 200 carers supported
• Improved mental health and wellbeing, with carers reporting reduced stress and anxiety
• Strengthened peer support networks, with meaningful friendships forming among participants
• Greater self-confidence and resilience reported, particularly among traditionally underrepresented groups like male carers
• Positive feedback collection through forms, verbal sharing, and case studies (detailed within Annex A)
• Membership growth in groups such as the male carers’ network and Sporting Memories group

“Prior to attending the group, one of our participants felt like he was the only male carer in his community and struggled to relate to others. Being part of the group allows him to realise that other men, even from different walks of life, face similar struggles and challenges. This helps him feel less alone in his caregiving journey.”

Some projects were proud to highlight their increased links and collaborations with other services. Showing how they worked together to provide activities and services in their local areas.

The Monday Club for Neurodivergent Adults (East Dunbartonshire)

Overview

The project offered a weekly social group tailored for neurodivergent adults aged 18+. To allow a safe, welcoming space to socialise, build friendships, and engage in activities chosen by members themselves. Participants were supported by staff and volunteers, and the group fostered autonomy, peer connection, and community involvement through structured planning and collaborative decision-making.

Target Audience

• Neurodivergent adults aged 18+
• Family members and carers, who benefit from peer support and respite during sessions
• Individuals at risk of social isolation or lacking opportunities for community engagement

Services Provided

• 48 weekly sessions held over the year (excluding public holidays)
• Activity planning meetings every 8 weeks to ensure participant ownership
• Social activities: bingo, quizzes, karaoke, discos, movie nights, and a summer barge trip
• Guest sessions featuring local services and community members (e.g., East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust (EDLCT), first aid training, community wardens)
• Peer support for parents and carers during club meetings

Impact

• 30+ regular attendees, with strong engagement from parents, carers, and volunteers
• 100% of participants rated the club 7/10 or higher for enjoyment; 75% gave it a 10/10
• Members reported greater confidence, new friendships, and feeling included in the group’s direction
• Parental feedback indicated the group offers valued respite and reassurance of safe, positive engagement for their family members
• Visual evaluations and reflections from the year reinforced feedback around reduced social isolation and increased wellbeing

“The strong relationships built with NHS teams, social work, local councils, and other agencies also play a vital role in our success. These collaborative connections involve regular calls, conversations, and emails to coordinate the best possible support. These partnerships have become a cornerstone in delivering holistic, whole family support, maximising positive outcomes for those we support.”

Some projects highlighted increases in attendance, membership or engagement with participants as a visible and concrete way of measuring their achievements and reported being proud of how many people they reached.

Self-Directed Support Forum (East Renfrewshire)

Overview

The project funded the employment of an SDS Coordinator to deliver a brokerage service for individuals in East Renfrewshire receiving self-directed support, but unable or ineligible to manage their own budgets. The role reduced financial stress, expanded access to Option 1 (direct payments), and helped individuals use their support creatively in line with personal outcomes. The coordinator also offered person-centred planning, advocacy, and signposting to additional services.

Target Audience

• Individuals in East Renfrewshire in receipt of Self-Directed Support
• People previously excluded from Option 1 due to financial mismanagement, cognitive overload, or capacity concerns
• Carers or individuals with complex social, economic, or communication needs

Services Provided

• 52 weeks of one-to-one SDS budget management and support
• 4 public information stalls and ongoing awareness-raising with social work teams
• Presentations to potential clients and staff, promoting SDS options and brokerage availability
• Coordination and oversight of 38 managed budgets totalling £370,000 annually
• Advocacy, planning exercises, and referrals to mental health, social, and community support networks

Impact

• Increased independence and flexibility for individuals previously excluded from managing their care
• Expanded access to Option 1 via the SDS brokerage model, upholding choice and control principles
• Improved wellbeing and reduced isolation, as clients felt reassured, supported, and connected
• Positive feedback: clients described feeling relieved, more empowered, and able to access new opportunities
• Service helped bridge structural gaps, offering SDS pathways to those facing financial or capacity-related barriers

“We are incredibly proud of the way our members embraced the extended lunch club sessions. Initially, we were unsure how much engagement we would see, but participation exceeded expectations. Members eagerly anticipated these gatherings, and the sense of camaraderie grew with each session.”

How did you achieve your outcomes?

Respondents were asked to tell us how they achieved each of their proposed outcomes and all respondents were able to detail what those outcomes were and how they felt they had met them. Projects adopted idiosyncratic methods of measuring how they had succeeded in meeting their outcomes which makes it challenging to summarise in detail how most approached this. Organisations provided varying levels of detail regarding their methods and evaluative measures.

A majority (61) were able to point to specific methods of collecting feedback from participants that was mainly positive and pointed to the success of their projects. A broad range of feedback methods were used from formal surveys and questionnaires to informally noting comments while the project was running.

30 projects pointed to an increase in attendance, membership, or a need to increase the number of services/activities offered as a measure of success.

Greener Peebles, Greener Wellbeing (Scottish Borders)

Overview

The project delivered a wide-ranging programme of intergenerational wellbeing activities rooted in nature, peer connection, and local collaboration. Building on past success, Greener Peebles expanded to offer more frequent volunteer sessions, befriending support, and targeted skill shares, whilst establishing new community partnerships and embedding NHS 5 Ways-To-Be-Well principles into their programming.

Target Audience

• Older and retired adults
• Young people with additional support needs (ASN)
• Individuals with long-term health conditions
• People experiencing social isolation or mental health challenges

Services Provided

• 97 volunteer gardening sessions and ongoing “Garden Buddies” befriending
• 23 Skill Share sessions, including 8 focused on wellbeing
• 17 tailored sessions with Peebles High School for vulnerable pupils (16+)
• 6 community events, 4 “Pick Your Own” harvest sessions, and 5 showcases
• Wellbeing summer activities: singing, gentle movement, nature art, mindfulness
• New infrastructure: polycarbonate tunnel, composting, rainwater collection
• Accessibility improvements: new bench and Accessibility Statement
• Biodiversity initiatives and a new online Greener Wellbeing awareness blurb

Impact

• 380 direct beneficiaries, with broader reach through public-facing events
• 91% felt more connected to their community
• 90% made new social connections through volunteering
• 89% became more physically active, 88% spent more time in nature
• Notable behavioural changes reported: self-care, routine engagement, peer support
• Volunteers empowered through leadership roles and resilience training
• Stronger ecosystem of collaboration with Recovery Café, Quarriers, Peeblesshire Food Bank, and Dementia Friendly Tweeddale

“Indicators of success included high attendance at volunteer sessions, skill shares, and community events, positive responses from participants about the impact on their mental health and wellbeing, and strong partnerships with local organisations supporting priority groups.”