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# Circle Scotland

Supporting Families in Scotland

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://circle.scot/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [🍃 Grow Your Own Routes Official Launch! 🍃](https://circle.scot/grow-your-own-routes-official-launch/) - Background to Routes Circle became an early adopter of the ‘Grow Your Own Routes’ programme in 2023, as part of Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs (SFAD) National Programme. The initiative offers a co-produced and evidence-based youth work model focused on solutions and assets to empower young people to shape their own lives. Developed
- [Auris Ear Care Collaboration](https://circle.scot/collaboration-with-auris-ear-care/) - Collaboration with Auris Ear Care We are excited to announce a new collaboration with Auris Ear Care. We are grateful for their support of our work and are looking forward to working together. Auris Ear Care are supporting us with the development of marketing materials to ensure we can support children and families across Scotland.
- [Circle Raises £5,357 at the Edinburgh Marathon Festival!](https://circle.scot/circles-fundraising-at-the-edinburgh-marathon-festival/) - Circle Raises £5,357 at the Edinburgh Marathon Festival! 2024 Circle Scotland Supporting Families in Scotland
- [Stay active and fit with DARED 2024!](https://circle.scot/stay-active-and-fit-with-dared-2024/) - The DARED Challenge... Looking for a fun and rewarding way to stay active while giving back to your community? Are you up for running a 1 mile or 5k every day in June? Want to DARE your friends or colleagues to join you in a bit of friendly competition? Well join us for DARED 2024!
- [Friends of the Haven](https://circle.scot/friends-of-the-haven-event/) - A recap of Friends of the Haven event A few weeks ago, we hosted an event for Haven families, charity partners, funders, and policymakers. It was a chance to celebrate the amazing work and families helped by our Haven Project. This project provides important help to families in North Edinburgh, like parent-child groups, mentoring, and
- [Chief Executive Update 2023](https://circle.scot/chief-executive-update-2023/)
- [Project Updates](https://circle.scot/project-updates/) - A fa-BOO-lous Halloween at Circle! Spooky season was in full swing at Circle! Our projects were busy hosting Halloween parties for our children and families, with lots of games and activities for all to take part in! From dookin' for apples, to crafting spooktacular decorations and creating Halloween arts and crafts. There has definitely been
- [Circle is Challenging Poverty: Are you?](https://circle.scot/circle-poverty-week-2023/) - Circle is once again supporting Challenge Poverty Week. Challenge Poverty Week (2nd-8th October) is a Scottish-wide campaign that aims to highlight that too many people are living in poverty and showcase the positive action being taken to combat this. To show our support to Challenge Poverty Week, our Fundraising Officer, Rachel wrote an
- [Summer Project Updates](https://circle.scot/summer-project-updates-2023/) - A summer of fun and play! Circle have been working across Central Scotland since 2006 to improve the lives of children by strengthening families. This summer all of our Projects: Haven, Harbour, FABI, East Lothian and West Lothian have been busy organising fun and supportive activities for the families supported by Circle. The summer programme
- [Chief Executive Summer Update 2023](https://circle.scot/circle-chief-executive-summer-update-2023/)
- [Circle's Impact Report- 2021-2022](https://circle.scot/circles-impact-report-2021-2022/) - Circle's Impact Report- 2021-2022 We are delighted to share the impact that Circle has made in 2021-22. Though circumstances remained difficult, as the ongoing pandemic continued to create challenges for the children and families that we work alongside, Circle continued to provide services that supported the healthy development of children and families. Read our full
- [Spring Updates at Circle](https://circle.scot/spring-project-updates-2023/) - An update about what our projects have been getting up to recently! Circle have been working across central Scotland since 2006 to ensure that families in Edinburgh, East and West Lothian, North and South Lanarkshire and more recently Fife, Forth Valley and Tayside get the support they need as soon as possible. We have deliberately
- [Chief Exec Spring Update 2023](https://circle.scot/chief-exec-spring-update-2023/) - Hello and welcome to Circle’s Spring Newsletter. There have been a few changes at Circle with Mark Kennedy leaving the CEO post in February. This is my first, and potentially last newsletter as Interim CEO. I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge two long standing Circle employees who have recently moved on from
- [Introducing Eilidh- Pregnancy & Postnatal Outreach Worker in the West Lothian Team!](https://circle.scot/introducing-eilidh-pandpworker/) - Hi Eilidh! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What's your favourite book/film and why? Film – “True Spirit” this is a film based on the true story of an Australian teenager who plans to become the youngest person to complete a solo circumnavigation. I love
- [Introducing Alana- Children's Resilience Worker in the East Lothian Project!](https://circle.scot/introducing-alana-childrensresilience/) - Hi Alana! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What's your favourite book/film and why? My favourite movie is ‘Girl, Interrupted’. This movie shows many aspects of mental health and how it was perceived in the 1960’s. Its focus is on teen girls’ behavioural and mental
- [Introducing Christine- Father's Support Worker in the West Lothian Team!](https://circle.scot/introducing-christine-fatherssupportworker/) - Hi Christine! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What's your favourite book/film and why? My favourite book without a doubt is the Smartest giant in town by Julia Donaldson, because it holds so many lovely memories for me. I loved reading this book to both
- [Circle Staff Development Day](https://circle.scot/circle-staff-development-day/) - Circle Staff Development Day Circle held its second in person development day at Livingston FC stadium with input coming from the good team from the Promise Scotland School of co design team. An interactive and fun day was led by Rachael Hood making design principles not only easy to understand but usable by all present.
- [In Memory of Bob Griffiths](https://circle.scot/in-memory-of-bob-griffiths/) - In Memory of Bob Griffiths Sadly, Bob Griffiths, who worked for Family Service Unit, and latterly Circle, passed away on Sunday the 19th of March. Bob, alongside his Circle colleague, Mae, ran the under 5s and Mentoring Group for many years and he was a well loved member of the local community. Bob had a
- [DARED Memories Week](https://circle.scot/dared-memories-week/) - 5 years of The DARED Challenge! Our annual DARED Challenge has launched for its 6th year, and over the past week, we have been hosting our own DARED memories takeover on social media to share and remind you of some of the amazing memories that have been made through DARED over the past 5 years. Here's
- [Burness Paull- Our first corporate DARED Team!](https://circle.scot/burness-paul-our-first-corporate-dared-team/) - Burness Paull as our first corporate team to sign up to DARED! After launching our team sign up initiative for the first-time last year, we had our first official corporate involvement in DARED. The law firm, Burness Paull, signed up to DARED 2022 with a team of 14 trainees from across their offices in Edinburgh,
- [Local Football Club take part in DARED](https://circle.scot/local-football-club-take-part-in-dared/) - North Berwick Amateur Football Club- DARED 2022 After launching our team sign up initiative for the first-time last year, we had our first official sport team involvement in DARED. A local football team, the North Berwick Amateurs, signed up to DARED 2022 with a team of 10 members. On top of those who took part,
- [Introducing Sarah- Peer Support Worker in the Harbour Team!](https://circle.scot/introducing-sarah-peer-support-worker-in-the-harbour-team/) - Hi Sarah! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What's your favourite book/film and why? My favourite book at the moment is Facing your giants by Max Lucado. I find it so inspiring and when reflecting on my own struggles, the book helps me a lot.
- [February Holidays at Circle](https://circle.scot/february-holidays-at-circle/) - A short update about what our projects got up to during the February holidays! The holidays can be a tough time for families, both emotionally and financially, making Circle's services vital at this time of year. Alongside our support services, we've been busy going on day trips with families to create happy memories for them,
- [Introducing Ian- A new Family Outreach Worker in the Harbour Team!](https://circle.scot/introducing-ian-a-new-family-outreach-worker-in-the-harbour-team/) - Hi Ian! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What's your favourite book/film and why? My favourite book is IT by Stephen King, a bit spooky, but a great read. I like most of his books, but this one is a classic. My favourite film has
- [Festivities at Circle!](https://circle.scot/festivities-at-circle/) - Here's what we got up to over the festive period at Circle! The festive season can be particularly hard for families living in the most disadvantaged areas of Scotland, meaning that Circle’s Family Outreach Workers are needed more than ever. Every year they go to extraordinary lengths to provide emotional and physical help to families
- [Introducing Seonaid- A new Family Outreach Worker in East Lothian!](https://circle.scot/introducing-seonaid-a-new-family-outreach-worker-in-east-lothian/) - Hi Seonaid! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What's your favourite book and why? My favourite film is called Pride. It’s about an LGBT group in London supporting a group of Welsh minors in the 80s. It's essentially about two completely different groups of people
- [Lothian Buses Charity of Choice 2023/2024- Help us win the final vote!](https://circle.scot/lothian-buses-charity-of-choice-2023-2024-help-us-win-the-final-vote/) - Vote for Circle because no family should journey alone. Every two years, Lothian Buses selects a Charity of Choice. We are delighted to announce that Circle have made it to the final stage of the voting process! The final stage of the process goes down to an employee vote amongst Lothian Bus colleagues, and
- [Introducing Kirsten- A New Family Outreach Worker in the FABI Team!](https://circle.scot/introducing-kirsten-a-new-family-outreach-worker-in-the-fabi-team/) - Hi Kirsten! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What’s your favourite book and why? It’s difficult to pick as I am a real book worm and have so many favourite books! If I had to choose, I’d go with the Hunger Games Trilogy. I know
- [Support Circle's Winter Campaign](https://circle.scot/support-circles-winter-campaign/) - Sponsor the Difference We've recently launched our Winter Campaign- ‘Sponsor the Difference’- to help families cope with the effects of the cost-of-living crisis and stay warm, fed, clothed and safe this winter. Families will be experiencing difficulties and hardship as the costs of energy, food, fuel, and the basic essentials of day-to-day living continue to
- [George Heriots Students take part in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk!](https://circle.scot/george-heriots-students-take-part-in-the-edinburgh-kiltwalk/) - As part of the George Heriots Voluntary Programme, each year, a group of sixth year pupils volunteer at our Mentoring Project, which provides support to local primary school children. Circle’s relationship with George Heriots has continued to develop, and recently, we’ve had some staff and students take part in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk to raise money
- [Introducing Emma- New Haven Manager!](https://circle.scot/introducing-emma-new-haven-manager/) - Introducing Emma- New Manager of the Haven Team! Hi Emma! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What's your favourite film and why? It’s difficult to choose my favourite film of all time, but the most recent film I’ve seen which I really liked is
- [Autumn Project Updates](https://circle.scot/autumn-project-updates/) - All the latest news, reports, updates and announcements from Circle’s various projects Circle have been working across central Scotland since 2006 to ensure that families in Edinburgh, East and West Lothian, North and South Lanarkshire and more recently Fife, Forth Valley and Tayside get the support they need as soon as possible. We have deliberately
- [Chief Exec Autumn Update](https://circle.scot/chief-exec-autumn-update/) - Hello and welcome to Circle’s Autumn Newsletter. As usual, the last few months have been busy and productive ones at Circle. Following the excitement of the summer, we have been working with families to settle children back to school, ensuring they have the support and materials that they need to fully engage with their education.
- [Introducing Our New Development Manager- Douglas!](https://circle.scot/introducing-our-new-development-manager-douglas/) - Introducing Douglas- New Development Manager! Hi Douglas! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What's your favourite film and why? My favourite film (s) is the Star Wars Trilogy, specifically the 3 originals. The films are a core childhood memory for me, and I was
- [NCM Fundraiser](https://circle.scot/ncm-fundraiser/) - NCM Fundraiser: Summer 2022 Fundraising for Circle is a great way to give back to your local community and make a real difference to the lives of children and families across Central Scotland. Not only will it make you feel great, knowing you are helping others, but fundraising is a great way to bring people
- [Youth Philanthropy Initiative - Success!](https://circle.scot/youth-philanthropy-initiative-success/) - YPI success from Trinity Academy! Recently, a group of second year pupils from Trinity Academy were successful in securing £3,000 for our Haven Project through their success in the Youth Philanthropy Initiative scheme. The Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) is a powerful active citizenship programme, empowering young people to make a difference in their local communities,
- [DARED: What your fundraising has helped achieve](https://circle.scot/dared-what-your-fundraising-has-helped-achieve/) - New East Lothian Drop-In Service: DARED Fundraising Just over three months have passed since we completed DARED 2022, and since then, we've been busy deciding what the money raised from The DARED Challenge should go towards to help Circle's children and families. In 2019, our East Lothian Team shared ideas around developing a drop-in service for parents
- [Challenge Poverty Week](https://circle.scot/challenge-poverty-week/) - Challenge Poverty Week: As part of #ChallengePovertyWeek, we will be aiming to raise awareness of the impact of poverty on the families we support, particularly in relation to the rise in the cost-of living as it pulls more and more people towards poverty. Our families have been discussing the various ways in which they’ve been
- [Local MSP visits Circle Project!](https://circle.scot/local-msp-visits-circle-project/) - Ben Macpherson visits Circle's Mentoring Project Recently, our Mentoring Project Co-ordinator, Claire, and Haven Manager, Emma, attended George Heriots for the launch of their voluntary service programme. Ben Macpherson, Constituency MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith, volunteered previously as a mentor for Circle in his sixth year at George Heriots School in 2001, and delivered
- [Launching Circle's Values](https://circle.scot/launching-circles-values/) - We are excited to launch Circle's Values... To ensure that children and families are at the centre of all we do, we create opportunities for families to participate in the development of policies, values, and services. We believe that to properly support families to find their own solutions, it is necessary to give voice to
- [Summer Holidays 2022 with Circle](https://circle.scot/summer-holidays-2022-with-circle/) - A short update about what our projects got up to during the summer holidays! The summer holidays can be a tough time for families, both emotionally and financially, making Circle's services vital at this time of year. Alongside our support services, we've been busy going on day trips with families to create happy memories for
- [Circle Project Updates](https://circle.scot/circle-project-updates-2/) - All the latest news, reports, updates and announcements from Circle's various projects Circle has been working across central Scotland since 2006 to ensure that families in Edinburgh, East and West Lothian, North and South Lanarkshire and more recently Fife, Forth Valley and Tayside get the support they need as soon as possible. We have deliberately
- [Empathy- Launching Circle's Values](https://circle.scot/empathy-launching-circles-values/) - Empathy: One of Circle's young people in the news! One of the young people supported by our Harbour Project, Lucy Kennie, has been recognised by South Queensferry Rotary for her contribution to her local community after she received the Outstanding Community Achievement Award. Lucy was nominated for her voluntary work with Queensferry Churches
- [Family Food Preparation - Summer Loving Bruschetta](https://circle.scot/family-food-preparation-summer-loving-bruschetta/) - Summer Loving Bruschetta Recipe As families try to survive the cost of living crisis, with some experiencing extreme financial pressures, one of the biggest challenges they are facing is putting food on their table. Not only that but also ensuring that the food they serve is healthy. It can be very easy to resort to
- [Staff Development Day](https://circle.scot/staff-development-day-2/) - Staff Development Day - 1st June 2022 We recently held our second Staff Development Day of 2022. Unfortunately, due to Covid restrictions, this continues to take place online, but we are hopeful that we will be able to bring all our staff together in person for the next one. The session was delivered by two
- [The DARED Challenge 2022!](https://circle.scot/the-dared-challenge-2022/) - 5 years of DARED! "Thank you DARED for helping me find my running mojo again, whilst helping out an amazing charity. Been such a busy month and it could have been so easy not to do any exercise because of that, but thanks to The DARED Challenge, I've been outside everyday and I feel so
- [Chief Exec Summer Update](https://circle.scot/chief-exec-summer-update/) - Hello and welcome to my Summer update. Its been a very exciting few months with projects growing, new staff being welcomed, joyful summer activities happening again for the first time in years and some very successful fundraising endeavours. So I apologise in advance for this lengthy, but hopefully action-packed, update. I hope you enjoy it.
- [Introducing Bob- A Family Outreach Worker in East Lothian](https://circle.scot/introducing-bob-a-family-outreach-worker-in-east-lothian/) - Introducing Bob, a Family Outreach Worker in East Lothian! Hi Bob! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What is your favourite film, and why? My favourite film has got to be The Green Mile- it’s got great actors and a fantastic storyline. I’d definitely
- [Introducing Alex!](https://circle.scot/introducing-alex/) - Introducing Alex, our new Head of Operations Manager! Hi Alex! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What is your favourite film, and why? My favourite film has to be The Shawshank Redemption, its' just a great film with a fantastic ending. My favourite book
- [Introducing Hazel- A New Family Outreach Worker in East Lothian](https://circle.scot/introducing-hazel-a-new-family-outreach-worker-in-east-lothian/) - Introducing Hazel a new Family Outreach Worker in East Lothian! Hi Hazel! Before we start the serious questions lets break-the-ice a little and get to know you better. What's your favourite book and why? I love reading all books, but my favourite has to be The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. It’s probably
- [Mental Health Awareness Week 2022](https://circle.scot/mental-health-awareness-week-2022/) - Last week was Mental Health Awareness Week and this year's theme is Loneliness; "Loneliness is affecting more and more of us in the UK and has had a huge impact on our physical and mental health during the pandemic." - Mental Health Foundation Many of the families we support are dealing with feelings of isolation
- [DARED Day- Craigour Park School](https://circle.scot/dared-day-craigour-park-school/) - DARED Day- Craigour Park Primary As part of our annual DARED Challenge, Craigour Park Primary School hosted an official DARED Day on Friday 10th June. The purpose of the event was to get children and parents running together to promote the importance of exercise, whilst raising some money and awareness of Circle at the school.
- [Announcing - A New Family Outreach Worker in West Lothian!](https://circle.scot/announcing-a-new-family-outreach-worker-in-west-lothian/) - Introducing the latest member of the West Lothian Circle Team! Hi and welcome to Circle, I hope you are settling in well? Thanks for agreeing to chat to us, could you just take a second to introduce yourselves? Hello! I'm Sarah and I'm a new Family Outreach Worker for Circle, based in the West
- [Harry Wright - A DARED Challenge Superstar!](https://circle.scot/harry-wright-a-dared-challenge-superstar/) - With just a month to go until the start of Circle's 5th annual DARED (Do A Run Every Day) Challenge, we thought it would be a good time to speak to some of our previous participants and share their memories. Harry Wright was one of our top fundraisers in 2020, running over 275km and raising
- [Cash for Kids - Funding Announcement](https://circle.scot/cash-for-kids-funding-announcement/) - We are delighted to announce that we have received grant funding from Radio Forth Cash for Kids who help children that need it most across the UK. They align with our mission to help children achieve their potential and live life to the full. The generous donation will benefit all our projects in the Forth
- [Family Food Preparation - Batch-Cook Bolognese](https://circle.scot/family-food-preparation-batch-cook-bolognese/) - Batch-Cook Bolognese As families try to survive during times of crisis and often extreme financial pressure one of the biggest problems they may face could be putting food on the table. And not only that but ensuring that the food they serve is healthy. It can be very easy to resort to cheap and often
- [Circle Project Updates](https://circle.scot/circle-project-updates/) - All the latest news, reports, updates and announcements from Circle's various projects Circle has been working across central Scotland since 2006 to ensure that families in Edinburgh, East and West Lothian, North and South Lanarkshire and more recently Fife, Forth Valley and Tayside get the support they need as soon as possible. We have deliberately
- [CEO Spring Update](https://circle.scot/ceo-spring-update/) - Welcome to my latest Circle update Greetings! I want to start by thanking you again for your support and hoping that 2022 has started well for you. Certainly, the recent period of very Spring like sunny weather, combined with the reduction in Covid restrictions, have really contributed to a renewed sense of optimism and recovery
- [Announcing - A New Fundraising and Communications Officer](https://circle.scot/announcing-a-new-fundraising-and-communications-officer/) - Welcome to Circle, Kirsten! In order to meet increased demand for our support we have recruited a second fundraiser to help get families, and our staff, the resources they need. Hi and welcome to Circle, I hope you are settling in well? Thanks for agreeing to chat to us, could you just take a second
- [Trustee Introduction - Nickola Jones](https://circle.scot/trustee-introduction-nickola-jones/) - Spotlight on Circle's Trustees Circle are very proud of... the quality, and range, of individuals we have on our Board of Trustees. Our current board contains individuals with knowledge of Education, Finance, Communications, Healthcare and Social Work. They play a key role in supporting Circle’s work, using their vast range of skills and experience
- [Circle's CEO Winter Update](https://circle.scot/circles-ceo-winter-update/) - Congratulations on surviving another Covid affected year... And welcome to my final update of 2021. Once again I find myself looking back at another challenging year, for the families we support and for us as an organisation, but one full of positives, innovations and successes. I'd like to start by wishing all our staff, families,
- [Circle Joins Instagram - Better Late than Never!](https://circle.scot/circle-joins-instagram-better-late-than-never/) - Expanding our Digital Communications As a result of feedback from the families we support, Circle has started rethinking how we communicate. We are trying our best to ensure that we reach as wide an audience as possible. In a way that suits them best. So that everyone gets updates on the work we do, project
- [Meet the Circle Team - Staff Insights and Interviews](https://circle.scot/meet-the-circle-team-staff-insights-and-interviews/) - Over the next few months we are going to do a series of staff profiles to help you get to know the team behind the great work we do here at Circle. Introducing Julie! This month we are introducing our team member Julie! Julie has been at Circle for 14 years and in that time
- [What does it mean to be Care Experienced?](https://circle.scot/what-does-it-mean-to-be-care-experienced/) - Circle's commitment to #KeepThePromise continued on Wednesday as we hosted the fantastic team from Who Cares? Scotland. Our entire staff team were present (via zoom), as part of our continued investment in staff training and development. Two of the Who Cares? Scotland team, Katie and Laurie, delivered a thought-provoking presentation around the Care Experienced
- [The DARED Challenge](https://circle.scot/the-dared-challenge/) - 'Do A Run Every Day' The concept of DARED is very simple – do a run every day in June whilst raising money for Circle. That’s it. You can run at any time of day that suits you, before work, after work, during lunch, early evening. Anytime! This is a challenge of physical and mental stamina,
- [Circle's Annual Halloween Competition](https://circle.scot/circles-annual-halloween-competition/) - The Best Carved Pumpkin Prize of 2021 Goes to... Liam! Congratulations Liam!! His pumpkin was voted this year's winner by Circle staff. We had some fantastic efforts this year and it was really tough to pick a winner. We accepted carved pumpkins as well as drawings and artistic renditions of pumpkins as some families might
- [New Student Placements in our East Lothian and Harbour Projects](https://circle.scot/3886-2/) - Circle has a proud tradition of welcoming Social Work students from all over Scotland and providing them with frontline experience in order for them to qualify and be ready for the professional challenges that they will face in the future. Two new students joined Circle recently and we thought we’d ask them a few hard-hitting,
- [Trustee Introduction - Helen McCann](https://circle.scot/trustee-introduction-helen-mccann/) - Meet Circle's Trustees Circle are very proud of... the quality, and range, of individuals we have on our Board of Trustees. Our current board contains individuals with knowledge of Education, Finance, Communications, Healthcare, Social Work and HR. They play a key role in supporting Circle’s work, using their vast range of skills and experience to
- [Announcing - A New Family Outreach Worker in Edinburgh](https://circle.scot/announcing-a-new-family-outreach-worker-in-edinburgh/) - Introducing the latest member of the Circle team Hi I'm Emily, and I was born and raised in London and became interested in psychology through my studies and went on to apply to study psychology at university (glad to say that I was successful!). I studied my undergraduate degree for three years at the University
- [A FABI Christmas Update](https://circle.scot/a-fabi-christmas-update/) - Meet the Newest Members of the FABI Team Let us introduce you to our fabulous FABI worry monsters. These very important members of our team, along with our Family Outreach Workers our supporting our children and young people to acknowledge, express and let go of their worries and anxieties, who will gobble them all up
- [Haven Group Work Re-starts After Two Year Break](https://circle.scot/haven-group-work-re-starts-after-two-year-break/) - Circle’s Haven Project delivers vital group work support for parents of new-born babies, toddlers and young children up to 6 years old. Unfortunately, we are still unable to invite parents into the project base at Craigroyston Primary School because of ongoing Covid restrictions. This is a significant challenge for the families we support as many
- [Please help Circle provide gifts, food and support to over 400 children this Christmas.](https://circle.scot/please-help-circle-provide-gifts-food-and-support-to-over-400-children-this-christmas/) - The festive season can be particularly hard for families living in the most deprived areas of Scotland. Meaning that Circle's Family Outreach Workers are needed more than ever. Every year they go to extraordinary lengths to provide emotional and physical help to families throughout Christmas and New Year. Parents can feel increased anxiety caused by
- [Trustee Week - Jane Scott Interview](https://circle.scot/trustee_week_jane_scott_interview/) - Spotlight on Circle's Trustees Circle are very proud of... the quality, and range, of individuals we have on our Board of Trustees. Our current board contains individuals with knowledge of Education, Finance, Communications, Healthcare and Social Work. They play a key role in supporting Circle’s work, using their vast range of skills and experience
- [Introducing... Circle's Board of Trustees](https://circle.scot/introducing-circles-board-of-trustees/) - Circle are very proud of the quality, and range, of individuals we have on our Board of Trustees. They play a key role in supporting Circle's work, using their vast range of skills and experience to provide oversight on key decisions, monitoring our financial situation and providing input into Circle's strategy for the future. For
- [Four Years of the DARED Challenge](https://circle.scot/3754-2/) - DARED (Do A Run Every Day) – Four Years on and Still Running. By Annie Williamson I don’t really remember much about the first DARED (Do a Run Every Day) challenge back in 2018. I do know that it was the brainchild of Mark Fletcher, then a teacher at Broughton High School, an event that
- [Project Annual Reports](https://circle.scot/project-annual-reports/) - In-depth and Illuminating Annual Analysis of Circle's Range of Projects Circle’s purpose is to improve the lives of children by strengthening families and we aim to achieve this by working at the heart of deprived communities across central Scotland. Currently we have six projects: East Lothian West Lothian Families Affected by Imprisonment (North Lanarkshire, South
- [Chief Executive Update](https://circle.scot/chief-executive-update/) - Welcome to my slightly delayed summer update. As the world continues to re-open I hope you have all been able to enjoy a little sun with your family and friends. I am happy to report that, though challenges remain, we have had a busy, productive, and rewarding summer. Today's update will feature a return to
- [Harbour and FABI Project Updates](https://circle.scot/harbour-and-fabi-project-updates-2/) - HARBOUR The Harbour Team have been unsurprisingly busy over the past couple of months considering how much added pressure and anxiety the Summer holidays place on the families we support. But we were pleased to finally be able to get out and meet with some of the families we support in person. Of course, our Summer
- [Helping our Families Create a New Happy Home](https://circle.scot/helping-our-families-create-a-new-happy-home/) - Happiness is Being at Home... or at least it should be. At Circle we work with the whole family, in a holistic way, supporting them to manage emotions, build routines and renew connections with family, friends, and their community. This Family Outreach Work can take many forms as it is led by the needs of
- [Circle's Children's Resilience Project](https://circle.scot/circles-childrens-resilience-project/) - The Return of Group Work Our Children's Resilience Project has been supporting children and young people on a 1:1 basis across East Lothian since May 2021. They recently had the opportunity to hold our first Children's Resilience Group, providing peer support through group work to children and young people in the local community. As part
- [Jamie Wilson, the story of a DARED runner and Circle beneficiary](https://circle.scot/jamie-wilson-the-story-of-a-dared-runner-and-circle-beneficiary/) - The fourth year of Circle's unique virtual fundraising event, The DARED Challenge, finishes on Wednesday 30th June. One of the stars of this years event has been Jamie Wilson, who is not only running 5km a day to raise money for Circle's vital work but is also currently being supported by one of Circle's
- [Coronavirus Update - June 2021](https://circle.scot/coronavirus-update/) - Circle's Current Working Guidelines (June 2021) The COVID-19 pandemic continues to provide significant challenges for Circle in delivering vital services to children and families who were already impacted by the effects of poverty and other challenges. Families with younger children have been particularly impacted by this crisis and the reduction in community resources that has
- [Spring Update from the CEO](https://circle.scot/spring-update-from-the-ceo/) - Hello to all our supporters and welcome to my Spring update. The longer days, and vaccination programme, have combined to create a more optimistic outlook for Circle and the families we support. The phased return to school and the resumption of some activities for children and young people have helped to take some of the
- [Harbour and FABI Project Updates](https://circle.scot/harbour-and-fabi-project-updates/) - Families Affected By Imprisonment Project (Lanarkshire) As Covid continues to impact on our ability to deliver face to face work our women’s group work has continued over these last few months via Zoom. Members of the group have continued to work alongside FABI team members, including our current social work student, focusing on the themes
- [The DARED Challenge - Circle's Virtual Event is Back for a Fourth Year](https://circle.scot/the-dared-challenge-circles-virtual-event-is-back-for-a-fourth-year/) - DARED 2021 - Get Active This Summer "DARED was exactly the challenge I needed to get my going again after a prolonged period of laziness had set in. The support from the other participants was amazing and kept me going through highs and lows!" What is DARED? Put simply DARED means Doing A Run Every
- [Announcing - A New Children's Resilience Worker for East Lothian](https://circle.scot/announcing-a-new-childrens-resilience-worker-for-east-lothian/) - Hi, my name is Jen and I am delighted to introduce myself as Circle's new Children’s Resilience Worker. What I am going to be doing: The Children’s Resilience Worker is a newly funded post by East Lothian Council and is based in Circle’s East Lothian team. I will be working one-on-one and in groups with
- [Care Experienced History Month April 2021](https://circle.scot/care-experienced-history-month-april-2021/) - This April is Care Experienced History Month. We’re joining activists and allies from around the world to commemorate the history of Care Experienced people in various countries, including Scotland, by supporting the first-ever global Care Experienced History Month. We want to understand why care is the way it is and how the systems we have
- [Meet the New Students at Circle](https://circle.scot/meet-the-new-students-at-circle/) - Circle has a proud tradition of welcoming Social Work students from all over Scotland and providing them with frontline experience in order for them to qualify and be ready for the professional challenges that they will face in the future. Three new students joined Circle recently and as per usual we thought we'd ask them
- [A New Years Message from Circle's Chief Executive](https://circle.scot/a-new-years-message-from-circles-chief-executive/) - Everyone at Circle would like to wish all the families we are working with as well as our staff, supporters, volunteers and donors a happy and positive New Year. We hope you have all started 2021 as best as can be expected in these trying times. Sadly, the continuing crisis and uncertainty around the global
- [The Chief Executive's Winter Update (and 2020 round up!)](https://circle.scot/the-chief-executives-winter-update-and-2020-round-up/) - Welcome to my winter update! Firstly, I would like to wish all our staff, families, donors, board members and supporters a very peaceful Christmas and New Year. As we approach the end of the year it is fair to say that 2020 has been a year like no other. Circle, the families we work with,
- [Virtual Christmas Tree and Gift Appeal](https://circle.scot/virtual-christmas-tree-and-gift-appeal/) - Circle are currently supporting over 500 children this Christmas. This year's festive period is going to be even more challenging than usual for the families we support. They face increased financial stresses and isolation from important family members and support networks, as well as the potential impacts of parental substance use, imprisonment or domestic abuse.
- [Supporting our Staff Professionally and Emotionally](https://circle.scot/supporting-our-staff-professionally-and-emotionally/) - Way back in March, when the COVID crisis escalated and lockdown restrictions began to be enforced, our staff did a fantastic job of keeping our vital services going. Everyone contributed to Circle's successful transition. Our Family Outreach Workers maintained contact with families and found innovative ways to continue offering vital support at a time when
- [Circle Christmas Card Design Competition Winner](https://circle.scot/circle-christmas-card-design-competition-winner/) - We can't quite believe its that time of year again already! Its Circle's Christmas Card Design Competition 2020. We have 18 fantastic entries from children and young people supported by Circle this year. The first 6, all with a Christmas Tree theme, are by Billy, Connor, Kasey, Kieran, Mason and Selina. The next 6 fantastic
- [Circle's Latest Group Work Activities](https://circle.scot/circles-latest-group-work-activities/) - FABI Group Work Despite the challenges inherent in providing support to our families through these uncertain times FABI groupwork has been taking place via ZOOM. This groupwork, funded by the Tampon Tax Community Fund has enabled us to develop a programme of support for women focusing on improving their health and wellbeing. Our first group
- [Meet Kristy, Circle's latest Social Work student aiming to make a difference](https://circle.scot/meet-kristy-circles-latest-social-work-student-aiming-to-make-a-difference/) - As the world continues to progress back towards normality, or a new normal, we are delighted that we can continue to welcome social work students at Circle. Not only do they get the opportunity to experience frontline work and learn valuable lessons on how to deliver support to families facing significant life challenges but Circle
- [Announcement! Introducing Circle's new Development Manager, Billy Anderson.](https://circle.scot/announcement-introducing-circles-new-development-manager-billy-anderson/) - Billy started with Circle in October and has been working with all of Circle's various project teams on improving our knowledge development and dissemination. He has also been tasked with further developing our participation strategy and service development. Circle are dedicated to ongoing improvement of the support we provide to ensure that our families receive
- [Cyber Essentials Certification Achieved!](https://circle.scot/cyber-essentials-certification-achieved/) - The Scottish Government, through their Cyber Resilience Strategy, are committed to helping Scotland’s third sector organisations to improve their cyber resilience in using technology securely, and responding to and preventing cyber crime. With Scottish Government grant funding, administered by SCVO, Circle’s IT & Facilities Administrator, with help from Dynacom IT (our external IT Support), have
- [Circle Responding to Rise in Domestic Abuse](https://circle.scot/circle-responding-to-rise-in-domestic-abuse/) - Circle, along with other domestic abuse support services like Women's Aid, have seen a recent spike in demand coinciding with the easing of lockdown restrictions, as highlighted in the Edinburgh Evening News. This spike is thought to be because as lockdown eases, those experiencing abuse are finally in a position to be able to think
- [Circle's Accounts 2019-20](https://circle.scot/circles-accounts-2019-20/) - Regardless of the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the day-to-day business of the charity continues as normal and we were delighted to be able to present our Annual Report and Accounts for 2019/2020 to the board at our meeting in July. The accounts show an improved financial performance for Circle. We managed to record
- [Record-breaking DARED 2020 Event](https://circle.scot/record-breaking-dared-2020-event/) - DARED (Do A Run Every Day) 2020 was the third installment of Circle's Summer challenge event and this year was by far the biggest and best yet. In total over 315 runners took on the 1 mile or 5 km challenge each day in June and raised an incredible £36,500+ Only
- [The Chief Executive's Autumn Update](https://circle.scot/the-chief-executives-autumn-update/) - Welcome to my Autumn update. I think it is fair to say that the last six months have been some of the most challenging that Circle, its staff team, the families we support, the voluntary sector more widely and the country have ever had to deal with. Despite the scale of the disruption that has
- [Students Return To Circle](https://circle.scot/students-return-to-circle/) - We are delighted to be able to welcome student placements back to Circle following a pause during the pandemic restrictions. The first of four students (three from The University of Edinburgh and one from Edinburgh Napier University) has joined us this week and the rest will arrive in the next week or so. We look
- [Baby Craft and Sensory Activity Packs](https://circle.scot/baby-craft-and-sensory-activity-packs/) - Circle's Haven Project recently developed and delivered 30 craft bags filled with 5 sensory activities and a little instruction kit to all our baby groups. The packs were partly funded by funding received from Cash for Kids and we are incredibly grateful to them for their support. Each family received a canvas bag to decorate,
- [On Placement at Circle - An insight into the experiences of a Social Work student (Part 2)](https://circle.scot/on-placement-at-circle-an-insight-into-the-experiences-of-a-social-work-student-part-2/) - As part of this months look into Circle's inspirational, but sometimes over-looked, work with Social Work students we were lucky enough to meet the staff, as well as some current students on placement, that make this project so successful. Read on for the second of three interviews with current social work students on placement at
- [On Placement at Circle - An insight into the experiences of a Social Work student (Part 3)](https://circle.scot/on-placement-at-circle-an-insight-into-the-experiences-of-a-social-work-student-part-3/) - As part of this months look into Circle's inspirational, but sometimes over-looked, work with Social Work students we were lucky enough to meet the staff, as well as some current students on placement, that make this project so successful. Read on for the third of three interviews with social work students on placement at Circle:
- [Making the step up from student to professional (Part 2)](https://circle.scot/making-the-step-up-from-student-to-professional-part-2/) - As part of this months look into Circle's inspirational, but sometimes over-looked, work with Social Work students we were lucky enough to meet the staff, as well as some current students on placement, that make this project so successful. Read on for the second of two interviews with Circle staff members who were previously social
- [Making the step up from student to professional (Part 1)](https://circle.scot/making-the-step-up-from-student-to-professional-part-1/) - As part of this month's look into Circle's inspirational, but sometimes over-looked, work with Social Work students we were lucky enough to meet the staff, as well as some current students on placement, that make this project so successful. Read on for the first of two interviews with Circle staff members who were previously Social
- [An Introduction to Circle's Practice Learning Project by Fiona Burness](https://circle.scot/an-introduction-to-circles-practice-learning-project-by-fiona-burness/) - As part of this month's look into Circle's inspirational, but sometimes over-looked, work with Social Work students we were lucky enough to meet the staff, as well as some current students on placement, that make this project so successful. Read on for an interview with the Project Manager: Hi Fiona, can you tell our supporters
- [On Placement at Circle - An insight into the experiences of a Social Work student (Part 1)](https://circle.scot/on-placement-at-circle-an-insight-into-the-experiences-of-a-social-work-student-part-1/) - As part of this month's look into Circle's inspirational, but sometimes over-looked, work with Social Work students we were lucky enough to meet the staff, as well as some current students on placement, that make this project so successful. Read on for the first of three interviews with current Social Work students on placement at
- [The Chief Executive's Spring Update](https://circle.scot/the-chief-executives-spring-update/) - Welcome to my Spring update. Given that this update marks the end of my first year as Chief Executive of Circle, I felt it would be a good opportunity to look back over the year past, and what I’ve learned in the role so far, as well as looking forward to the year ahead. The most
- [Chief Executive's Winter Update](https://circle.scot/chief-executives-winter-update/) - This year, my first as CEO of Circle, has fairly flown by as we have been working hard to support and develop the work of the charity. For Circle the Christmas holidays are about working with the families we support to ensure that the festive season can be enjoyed by all in a way that
- [Circle's Annual Lecture 2019](https://circle.scot/circles-annual-lecture-2019/) - Representatives of charities, funders, Local Authorities and industry experts were recently welcomed at George Heriot's for Circle's 2019 Annual Lecture. Our two speaker's, Prof John Devaney and Dr Briege Nugent, joined us to give fascinating presentations on Domestic Violence and how we improve support to the children, women and families experiencing its negative effects. You
- [Chief Executive's Autumn Update](https://circle.scot/chief-executives-autumn-update/) - Hi, I'd like to start my second Chief Executive's Update by talking about the really productive and rewarding summer we have just experienced. There was a busy programme of summer activities for families including family days out at beaches, barbeques and picnics and some of the young people we support going on holidays in the
- [Scripture Union Summer Activities](https://circle.scot/scripture-union-summer-activities/) - It was another amazing summer for 32 children and young people who were invited to attend the Scripture Union camps over the summer. Circle's partnership with Prison Fellowship Scotland and Scripture Union Scotland continues to be incredibly successful with 252 children and young people having attended camps since 2013. Leaving home to go to camp
- [Project Annual Reports 2018/19](https://circle.scot/project-annual-reports-2018-19/) - "The support you have given me and the kids has been completely life changing... you have helped us build a life together and now we are all thriving" (Mother, Harbour Project) Circle gathers evidence on an ongoing basis so that we can be sure that the services we are delivering are helping to achieve the
- [Annual Lecture 2019 - 'When Home Isn't The Safe Place'](https://circle.scot/annual-lecture-2019-when-home-isnt-the-safe-place/) - This year, Circle's Annual Lecture will focus on the drivers and effects of family violence, and what we should do about it. Our keynote speaker will be John Devaney PhD MBE. John is the Centenary Professor of Social Work at the University of Edinburgh. He has a long and decorated history of service delivery, policy
- [Parents Under Pressure Parenting Programme](https://circle.scot/parents-under-pressure-parenting-programme/) - Six staff have also now been trained in the Parents Under Pressure (PuP) Parenting Programme. This is an accredited programme developed by Professor Sharon Dawe and Dr. Paul Harnett from Griffith University, Australia. The programme is aimed at working with vulnerable families and lends itself to substance using families extremely well. It is a structured
- [Circle's Young Persons' Service](https://circle.scot/circles-young-persons-service-2/) - Circle's Young Persons' Service supports young people affected by their own, or someone else's, substance use. We encourage young people to make healthy and informed choices and to feel better about themselves. "I never realised how much sugar and caffeine is in energy drinks, I don't want to drink these anymore" We also offer workshops and group
- [Circle's Dads' Shed Group Appeal](https://circle.scot/circles-dads-shed-group-appeal/) - Circle's Dads' Shed Group is a group of dads in recovery, working shoulder to shoulder, on a variety of fun projects, providing peer support for fathers affected by drug and alcohol use. We need TOOLS! Whatever the condition, please clear out your shed and send your unwanted tools our way. We'll use them or restore and
- [Circle's Haven Project](https://circle.scot/circles-haven-project-2/) - Circle's Haven Project runs a variety of support groups for parents, families and children. Baby Massage Group This is a five week programme of teaching Baby Massage to parents so that they can use it at home and also teach their partners. Baby Massage has excellent health benefits for babies and improves communication and bonding
- [Chief Executive's Update](https://circle.scot/chief-executives-update/) - Welcome to my first update as Circle's Chief Executive. I'd like to start by saying what an absolute honour it is to have the opportunity to take up this role at Circle. Since joining the management team as Operations Manager I have been hugely impressed by the skill and dedication of the staff team and
- [Farewell to Rhona and Liz](https://circle.scot/farewell-to-rhona-and-liz/) - This week Circle staff, and board members, gathered to thank two much loved members of staff, Rhona and Liz, for their exemplary work on our behalf and wish them all the best with their future engagements. Circle is very lucky that our staff as well as being dedicated, experienced and highly skilled professionals are also
- [An Alternative to Custody - Evaluation](https://circle.scot/2478-2/) - Launch Event: An Alternative to Custody - Evaluation Circle along with our partner, Addictions Support & Counselling, launched the external evaluation of the Women’s Outreach Team: An Alternative to Custody, celebrating the work achieved by the team. We were extremely grateful to Aileen, a parent supported by the Women’s Outreach Team, for sharing her experiences.
- [Haven - Parenting Support in Edinburgh](https://circle.scot/haven-parenting-support-in-edinburgh/) - Recently the Haven team welcomed Oliver from Happy Ears to deliver two music sessions for our Baby and Parent groups. Oliver played the guitar and ukulele for the babies and they responded amazingly to the music. Both our Baby Massage and Haven Babes groups are up and and running and very busy. The groups are for
- [Rhona's Final Update](https://circle.scot/rhonas-final-update/) - Hello everyone, I would like to start with a big congratulations to Julie King, Harbour Project Manager, who had a little boy at the end of January. Julie will be on maternity leave until August but the project is being well looked after by Fiona Burness in the meantime. The Women’s Outreach Team recently launched
- [Event Invite - Alternatives to Custody (Celebrating the work of the Women's Outreach Team)](https://circle.scot/event-invite-alternatives-to-custody-celebrating-the-work-of-the-womens-outreach-team/) - If you are interested in attending the launch then please RSVP by emailing - info@circle.scot
- [Wide Awake Drunk - have you heard of Dragon Soop?](https://circle.scot/wide-awake-drunk-have-you-heard-of-dragon-soop/) - Sour Apple, Blue Raspberry, Lemon Sherbet, Red Kola, Tropical Fruit Punch and New Venom. Sound refreshing? These are just some flavours of Dragon Soop. And what a cool name! So what exactly is it? It’s the latest in the range of novelty caffeinated alcohol beverages. It’s 8% ABV and contains high levels of caffeine (35mg per 100ml)
- [Latest update from Rhona, our Chief Executive](https://circle.scot/2376-2/) - Welcome to our winter newsletter. Time seems to have flown past and it is hard to believe that we are near the end of the year. With Christmas fast approaching it is worth remembering that although it can be a lovely time, seeing friends and family, exchanging gifts and eating a little too much, it
- [Circle's Young Persons' Service](https://circle.scot/circles-young-persons-service/) - Circle’s Young Persons’ Service supports young people from the North West of Edinburgh who are worried about their drug and/or alcohol use. Since January 2017, we have delivered approximately 800 hours of individual support to a total of 20 young people. My name is Seamus Kealey and I have been in post for a year now.
- [Circle solves problems alongside families](https://circle.scot/circle-solves-problems-alongside-families/) - We wanted to identify what families experience as challenges, how important framing the problem is and to what extent ‘problems’ or ‘challenges’ were resolved by the provision of whole family support. Dr Gary Clapton from the University of Edinburgh Social Work Department supported a knowledge fellowship to evidence the impact of whole family approach. Thirty
- [Circle's Annual Lecture 2018 - Support for care experienced young people](https://circle.scot/circles-annual-lecture-2018-support-for-care-experienced-young-people/) - On the 11th October Circle hosted our 6th Annual Lecture at George Heriot’s School. This year our aim was to explore the support that care experienced young people need in the home, at school and in the wider community to enable them to grow into happier and more resilient adults, as well as examining how
- [Circle's Annual Lecture 2018 - Save the Date](https://circle.scot/circles-annual-lecture-2018-save-the-date/) - WHAT: This year’s annual lecture will explore what supports care experienced young people need in the home, at school and in the wider community to enable them to grow into happier and more resilient adults, as well as examining how services can adapt to facilitate that change WHO: Fiona Duncan, Chair of The Independent Care Review
- [Exciting Developments for our Families Affected by Imprisonment Project](https://circle.scot/exciting-developments-for-our-families-affected-by-imprisonment-project/) - Partnership Working Addictions Support & Counselling (ASC) and Circle’s New Women’s Outreach Service Circle’s FABI team is extending its Women’s Outreach Service to Stirling and Clackmannanshire. We have been successful in receiving funding from the Clackmannanshire and Stirling Alcohol and Drug Partnership Challenge Fund to set up a new service in their area. This provides us
- [Latest update from Rhona, our Chief Executive](https://circle.scot/latest-update-from-rhona-our-chief-executive/) - Welcome to our September newsletter! Like everyone, Circle staff and families we support have enjoyed a glorious summer and we have taken advantage of the lovely weather with plenty of outdoor summer activities for all to enjoy. We ran many interesting and exciting trips including: Edinburgh festival shows Beach days Picnics East Links Family Park
- [Grant Sugden becomes Chair of Circle's Board](https://circle.scot/grant-sugden-becomes-chair-of-circles-board/) - We’re really excited to announce that Grant Sugden has recently been appointed Chair of the Board of Trustees at Circle. Grant is highly respected in the Third Sector community having led Waverley Care as chief executive since leaving Circle in 2011. Grant previously worked at Circle as a Senior Manager before leaving in 2011 to
- [Summer update from Rhona, our Chief Executive](https://circle.scot/summer-update-from-rhona-our-chief-executive/) - Hello and welcome to our summer newsletter! It has been a busy and active few months for Circle. We are delighted to be taking part in The DARED Challenge, which is to Do a Run Every Day in June. This is an initiative which came from Mark Fletcher who is a teacher at Broughton High
- [Spring update from Rhona, our Chief Executive](https://circle.scot/spring-update-chief-executive/) - Hello and welcome to our spring newsletter. It is lovely to see the sun shining. We are very pleased to be taking part in the Year of the Young People and the Photography Exhibition was our first event. This was a powerful and emotional exhibition that allowed some of our young people to express their
- [Everyone Has A Story: Circle's Young People stage Photography Exhibition](https://circle.scot/everyone-story-circles-young-people-stage-photography-exhibition/) - Young people supported by Circle worked alongside staff to produce photographs which express their feelings and emotions around parental substance use. The powerful photography exhibition launched on Friday 26th January at North Edinburgh Arts with the photos on display for six weeks. A picture really can speak a thousand words and Calum, Alex, Jack and Meghan
- [Staff Changes](https://circle.scot/staff-changes/) - We warmly welcome Mark Kennedy into post as Operations Manager. Mark previously worked at Cyrenians. “During my seven years at Cyrenians I had a variety of roles. I began as an outreach worker in the Homeless Prevention Service, eventually becoming a senior in this Service. I was then appointed Service Manager of Cyrenians Communities, which
- [Family Outreach Worker Diaries - Entry #29](https://circle.scot/family-outreach-worker-diaries-entry-29/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family outreach workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed I work part-time (18 hours per week) so my diary is from Tuesday to Thursday. Tuesday My morning starts with taking Julie to meet a childminder we have sourced
- [Hot off the press! 'Keeping Families Together Safely' Findings](https://circle.scot/hot-off-press-keeping-families-together-safely-findings/) - Circle’s very own Family Support Worker, Lyndsay Fraser-Robertson, was selected by the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust to carry out a travelling fellowship in the ‘Early Years Prevention and Intervention’ category. Lyndsay travelled to Washington and Connecticut State in the Summer of 2017 to explore innovative services for pregnant and parenting women affected by substance use. Lyndsay
- [Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry #28](https://circle.scot/family-support-worker-diaries-entry-28/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed I am an Addictions Counsellor working within one of Circle’s services providing support to women and their families who are involved with criminal justice services. My setting for providing
- [Christmas Card Competition 2017](https://circle.scot/christmas-card-competition-2017/) - We received many wonderful creations from children supported by Circle to enter into our Christmas Card Competition. Our Patron Arabella Weir had the honour of selecting this year’s winner. Congratulations to Hannah, age 12! We love your adorable elves design (right). You can see all the other fantastic entries below. Merry Christmas everyone!
- [Scripture Union Holidays](https://circle.scot/scripture-union-holidays/) - WOW! We had a really busy July and August with children and young people attending Scripture Union Holiday Camps this year. We want to say a massive thank you to all our children, young people, families, Circle Family Support Workers, the Scripture Union Team and our funders Prison Fellowship who have worked alongside each other to
- [Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry #27](https://circle.scot/family-support-worker-diaries-entry-27/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday I start my day by attending the weekly team meeting at which we discuss any matters that need to be planned and actioned within the team. It is
- [Our East Lothian Project: Latest News](https://circle.scot/east-lothian-project-latest-news/) - Parents Under Pressure (PuP) Programme A big congratulations to Bob for becoming an accredited PuPP Practitioner in August 2017. Bob is now recruiting fathers in East Lothian to be involved in the ‘PuPP for Dads’ study. Work with fathers involved in this research will start in December. Students This year the East Team have supported
- [Our Haven Project: Latest News](https://circle.scot/haven-project-latest-news/) - Groups and Family Support Work In our Baby Brunch Group we promote baby led weaning. We also take part in arts and crafts activities, such as hand and feet prints, and some messy play which the babies love. Not so sure about the parents, however they are more than happy for the Haven to deliver
- [Women’s Outreach Team - Successful Parliamentary Reception](https://circle.scot/womens-outreach-team-parliamentary-reception/) - Circle and Addictions Support and Counselling held a successful Parliamentary Reception celebrating the work achieved by their Women’s Outreach Team in Lanarkshire. We were delighted that the event was sponsored by MSPs Ben Macpherson and Christina McKelvie and amazing speakers were in attendance including Karyn McCluskey (CEO Community Justice Scotland), Bruce Adamson (Commissioner for Children
- [Our FABI Project: Latest News](https://circle.scot/fabi-project-latest-news/) - FABI Fun Day Families supported by our FABI team had an amazing October half term break. Children, young people, parents and grandparents came along to the day and had great Halloween fun with arts and crafts and face painting. The big event of the afternoon was meeting some special new friends – who wouldn’t want
- [Circle Trustee completes 26 mile Edinburgh Kiltwalk](https://circle.scot/circle-trustee-completes-26-mile-edinburgh-kiltwalk/) - Jacqui Gillies, Circle trustee, completed the 26 mile Edinburgh Kiltwalk in just under nine hours! Jacqui says “26 miles is a long walk and one I’ll probably never do again. But I’m delighted to have completed the Kiltwalk 2017 and I have my medal to prove it. Thank you to everyone who has donated so far
- [Circle Annual Lecture 'Health Inequalities' 12th Oct. 2017](https://circle.scot/annual-lecture-2017/) - Circle Annual Lecture ‘Health Inequalities’ 12th Oct. 2017. Take a look at our poster below for full details.
- [Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry #26](https://circle.scot/family-support-worker-diaries-5/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed I work part-time (18 hours per week) so my diary is from Wednesday to Friday. Wednesday I attend a LAC (Looked-After-Children) Review today regarding a two month old baby.
- [Women's Outreach Team Parliamentary Reception 30th Nov. 2017](https://circle.scot/womens-outreach-team-parliamentary-reception-30th-nov-2017/) - REMINDER! Thanks to all those who have already confirmed their attendance. Places are still available, but we would encourage you to RSVP. Circle and Addiction Support & Counselling’s (ASC) Women’s Outreach Team Parliamentary Reception
- [Danish Social Work Students Visit Circle to Learn About What We Do](https://circle.scot/danish-social-work-students-visit-circle-to-learn-about-what-we-do/) - A group of Danish social work students visited Circle’s Haven project on the 8th of January. They were all first year students from the Metropolitan University College in Copenhagen on a “study tour” of Scotland. During the tour they visited a range of social work organisations. The students came to Circle to learn about the
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 5](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-5/) - An anonymous diary by one of Circle’s part-time Family Support Workers, who is dealing with a lot of Child Protection issues in her working week. Wednesday This morning I have arranged to see a young mother and her toddler for a play session. The child is currently on the Child Protection (CP) Register and is
- [Circle Has Been Awarded Funding Worth Over £750,000](https://circle.scot/circle-has-been-awarded-funding-worth-over-750000/) - We are pleased to announce that Circle has been awarded £753,260 from the BIG Lottery Fund that will allow us to provide intensive support to families that are affected by parental substance misuse across Scotland. Circle’s Operational Manager, Maura Daly, had this to say about the funding: Circle is delighted to have received funding from
- [Circle Haven Praised in a Report From Demos called "Ties That Bind"](https://circle.scot/circle-haven-praised-in-a-report-from-demos-called-ties-that-bind/) - Circle’s Haven project was mentioned in a report called Ties That Bind from Demos and Quarriers, which suggests that Councils should make an effort to help families stay in the same communities. The researchers argue that this would allow people to rely on familial support networks and could save public money in the long-term. This
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 6](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-6/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s Family Support Workers, who confronts an unexpected personal challenge. Names have been changed Monday This morning is the first day back in my group after the holidays. The group is for mothers and is focused on their health and wellbeing. The group gives the mothers some peer
- [Circle Recieves Favourable Mention in a New Review](https://circle.scot/circle-recieves-favourable-mention-in-a-new-review/) - The Scottish Centre for Crime & Justice Research has published ‘The Elements of Effective Through-Care Part 2: Scottish Review’, in which Circle is mentioned regarding our work with clients. The review can be downloaded from their website here.
- [Our West Lothian Project Celebrates Its 10th Birthday Today](https://circle.scot/our-west-lothian-project-celebrates-its-10th-birthday-today/) - Today is the 10 year anniversary of Circle’s West Lothian project. For the past decade we have supported vulnerable children and families in West Lothian who are affected by parental drug and/or alcohol use. In that time we have worked with 478 families. This works out at 571 parents and 930 children. Circle staff members,
- [Mike Keogh is Doing a Seven Day Cycle to Raise Money for Circle](https://circle.scot/mike-keogh-is-doing-a-seven-day-cycle-to-raise-money-for-circle/) - A message from Mike: “On June 8th 2014, I will be embarking on a solo cycle from John O Groats to Lands End, covering approximately 1000 miles over a seven day period. The cycle is in aid of Circle, a Scottish charity working at the heart of deprived communities across Edinburgh and central Scotland. The
- [Do You Know a Real Scottish Hero?](https://circle.scot/do-you-know-a-real-scottish-hero/) - Nominations must be in by Thursday the 8th of May.
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 7](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-7/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s Family Support Workers, who is helping her families to regain stability in their lives. Names have been changed Monday I arrange a visit this morning with Shirley while her two children, Peter and Susan, are attending school. It has taken time to build up a trusting working relationship
- [Circle Staff Run the Edinburgh Marathon](https://circle.scot/circle-staff-run-the-edinburgh-marathon/) - On Sunday 25th May, Circle staff, friends and family members took part in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival event. One member of staff ran the full marathon, seven people ran the half marathon and twenty ran in five relay teams. All of our runners succesfully completed their runs and (after getting their breath back) claimed to
- [Circle Invited to Speak at the "Listening to Women" Conference](https://circle.scot/circle-invited-to-speak-at-the-listening-to-women-conference/) - Circle was invited to speak at the SDF “Listening to Women” Conference on 12 June at the Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow. Circle’s presentation included models of good practice and our approach to what works. This was reinforced by Meg and Kelly who spoke about the support they have received from Circle and Action: Lone Parents.
- [Mike Keogh Completed a Seven Day Cycle to Raise Money for Circle](https://circle.scot/mike-keogh-completed-a-seven-day-cycle-to-raise-money-for-circle/) - On the 14th June Mike competed his 7 day John ‘O Groats to Lands End fundraising cycle for Circle. Here is an excerpt from his Facebook blog. “Brilliant day . Fastest time and great ending to the day – met some people just starting out at lands end. Great to share stories and meet with
- [Haven Story Writing Success!](https://circle.scot/haven-story-writing-success/) - The Haven’s Story Writing Week ended on a high on Friday with a presentation of the ‘The Sandpit Volcano’, written and illustrated with the help of our dedicated families! North Edinburgh News came by to report on the occassion. Read their article here.
- [Harbour's Zoo Trip and the Kinship Care's M&D's Trip both a Success!](https://circle.scot/harbours-zoo-trip-and-the-kinship-cares-mds-trip-both-a-success/) - This week, the Harbour team had an excellent day out to Edinburgh Zoo. It was a great way for families to spend quality time together in a fun environment, while also enjoying the animals and sunshine. Here are two of the animals we managed to find! The rain stayed off for the Kinship Care’s outing
- [Haven's Sizzling Summer BBQ](https://circle.scot/havens-sizzling-summer-bbq/) - Children and families enjoyed a Super sizzling BBQ at Circle Haven Project on Tuesday. As well as taking part in a number of activities including nail painting, face painting and a bouncy castle, the families enjoyed some delicious food. The fruit kebabs were fantastic and Pete’s cooked apple sauce from the Edible Garden went down
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 8](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-8/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s Family Support Workers, who supported two woman in the preparation of speeches for a conference. Names have been changed Monday Home visit to a mother who has been really struggling with her alcohol issues and poor mental health. She had left the children with her Aunt, had turned
- [New Choir for Edinburgh's Kinship Carers](https://circle.scot/new-choir-for-edinburghs-kinship-carers/) - Circle’s Kinship Care team are warming up their vocal chords in preparation for the new Kinship Choir! The choir will be run by a dedicated volunteer, and will be led by a member of Edinburgh’s Sing in the City. All kinship carers are welcome to join, and no experience is needed. The Big Lottery has
- ["A Celebration: 40 years of Practice Learning in Circle"](https://circle.scot/a-celebration-40-years-of-practice-learning-in-circle/) - Circle’s Annual lecture will be held on Wednesday 8th October in the Botanic Gardens’ Lecture Theatre. We will be welcoming Bill Whyte from the University of Edinburgh to present on the importance of practice learning for social work students. All those interested in the work of Circle are welcome to join. Please also follow us
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 9](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-9/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s Family Support Workers, who felt a great sense of achievement following the Storytelling Week. Names have been changed Monday As part of our summer programme of activities, we have arranged a week long Storytelling Project, which involves a children’s author and a local artist leading a group
- [Kinship carers in Edinburgh could have the X Factor](https://circle.scot/kinship-carers-in-edinburgh-could-have-the-x-factor/) - Third Force News have featured our Kinship Choir online. Read all about it here.
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 10](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-10/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s fathers’ workers, who mainly supports fathers and expectant fathers whose children are affected by their substance misuse. Names have been changed Monday I start my day by taking G to his appointment at an educational and employment support agency. G has expressed a real desire to return
- [Mike Keogh and the Prepare Team win an award!](https://circle.scot/mike-keogh-and-the-prepare-team-win-an-award/) - Last night Mike Keogh and the Prepare Team were presented with an award at the City of Edinburgh Children and Families Achievement Awards for their work with fathers and expectant fathers. Well done to all involved! WORKING EFFECTIVELY WITH OTHERS Applications in this category needed to demonstrate how people who work effectively with others treat them respectfully and encourage diversity.
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 11](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-11/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who had a varied week of working with a number of families. Names have been changed Monday I start my week with a home visit to the B family. The family are subject to conditions through the children’s hearing system, one of which is
- [Circle's Annual Lecture 2014 - summary video!](https://circle.scot/circles-annual-lecture-2014-summary-video/) - A big thank you to all those who attended Circle’s Annual Lecture presented by Bill Whyte. I think we can all agree that the lecture was a great success and left us with a lot to mull over. We’ve also made a short summary video to remind you of the event.
- [David Tennant is #UNselfie for #GivingTuesday](https://circle.scot/david-tennant-is-unselfie-for-givingtuesday/)
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 12](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-12/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who is delighted to see families making positive progress. Names have been changed Monday First visit of the week is to a parent who is settling into new tenancy. Great to see how much she has done to the house already – decorated and
- [Circle Christmas Card Competition - WINNER and other entries](https://circle.scot/circle-christmas-card-competition-winner-and-other-entries-2/) - Every Year, Circle holds a Christmas card Competition, with the winning entry getting the honour of being used as Circle’s Christmas Card. This years winner was Paige, age 7 who did this fantastic colourful snowman! A big well done to all of the children who made Christmas cards! Here are all of the entries.
- [Lanarkshire team present at two national conferences](https://circle.scot/lanarkshire-team-present-at-two-national-conferences/) - Circle Lanarkshire presented at this year’s Scotish Drugs Forum Annual Conference and Project Fair. The presentation on the work of Circle; “What works!” was very well received and generated a lot of interest from other services. All presentations of the day’s event can be viewed here. Circle Lanarkshire also played a key role in “Working together
- [Food for Thought - St Augustine's Church](https://circle.scot/food-for-thought-st-augustines-church/) - In addition to the tremendous work undertaken at Circle, one of our staff member in Dumbarton also contibutes a lot of time to her local Church. Our staff really do go above and beyond! Here is a piece she has written in the church newsletter about fundraising for Cristmas gifts:
- [Working with Fathers Seminar](https://circle.scot/working-with-fathers-seminar/)
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 13](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-13/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has a very busy week in the lead up to Christmas. Names have been changed Monday I head to the office to tidy up and print supporting letter for a family that I have arranged to see next. The family are struggling to
- [Fathers Seminar: A Huge Success](https://circle.scot/fathers-seminar-a-huge-success/) - Circle and The University of Edinburgh held a seminar pomoting the positive involvement of fathers in vulnerable families. Research was undertaken by Neil gentlemen, Circle’s Development Manager, and the report concluded that a positively involved father is likely to: – have a positive perspective on the role of a father – have a mutually respectful
- [Circle is instrumental in securing £83,980 for Total Craigroyston](https://circle.scot/circle-is-instrumental-in-securing-83980-for-total-craigroyston-from-the-stv-appeal/) - STV CEO and trustee of the STV Appeal Rob Woodward and Chris Wilson managing director, Retail and Private Banking, RBS, presented the cheque of £83, 980 to Total Craigroyston outside the Muirhouse Community Shop. The STV Appeal raised £2.6million in 2014 and £305,689 of this was raised by RBS branches. Circle played an instrumental role
- [Kinship carers fear loss of support over cutbacks](https://circle.scot/kinship-carers-fear-loss-of-support-over-cutbacks/) - Circle was featured in the Edinburgh Evening News on 9 February in an article about the City of Edinburgh Council cuts to our Kinship Care Project. To read the article click here.
- [Circle's model praised in new Living in the Gap Report](https://circle.scot/circles-model-praised-in-new-living-in-the-gap-report/) - Circle has been featured in Voluntary Health Scotland’s new Living in the Gap report, which explores a voluntary health sector perspective on health inequalities in Scotland. Maura Daly, Circle’s operations manager, presented at the launch event at the Scottish parliament on 18th March, and Circle’s model of work was very well received. Read below to see
- [Scotland's Gardens donating 40% of admission fee for Humbie Event to Circle](https://circle.scot/scotlands-gardens-donating-40-of-admission-fee-for-humbie-event-to-circle/) - Scotland’s Gardens donating 40% of admission fee for Humbie Event to Circle.
- [PoPP 'Increadible Years' Group gets off to an Incredible Start!](https://circle.scot/popp-increadible-years-group-gets-off-to-an-incredible-start/) - In February Julie and Alex from Circle’s Haven Project, in partnership with Kelly Barclay from Barnardo’s, started their first Psychology of Parenting Project (PoPP) ‘Incredible Years’ group. The Incredible Years is a 14 week intensive parenting course for parents who have children aged 3-5 years. The aim of the programme is to prevent and address young children’s behavioural
- [Haven awarded £350 grant to develop its garden](https://circle.scot/haven-awarded-350-grant-to-develop-its-garden/) - Circle’s Haven Project was successful in securing a £350 grant from Edinburgh & Lothian Greenspace Trust for the development of the garden space. Pete, Haven’s dads worker, along with one of the dads, got the ground ready for planting in March with the first seeds going into the ground with help from the Dad’s Community
- [Action: Lone Parents and Bellshill work being showcased at National Early Years Conference](https://circle.scot/action-lone-parents-and-bellshill-work-being-showcased-at-national-early-years-conference/) - Circle have been selected to present at Murrayfield stadium on May 21st at the NHS Maternal and Early Years Conference. This is a great honour and a chance to exhibit the work of Circle as a whole and have a close look at the work going on in Lanarkshire through Action:Lone Parents and Bellshill. The presentation
- [Easter Extravaganza at Circle](https://circle.scot/easter-extravaganza-at-circle/) - Lanarkshire The children and parents working with Circle in the Lanarkshire area have enjoyed the Spring sun and spent some quality time with one another over the Easter holidays. Here are a few snaps with lots of happy faces: Action Lone parents had a great Fun Day on Saturday 18th April. We have now moved in
- [Consultation on the Future of Women’s Custodial Estate](https://circle.scot/consultation-on-the-future-of-womens-custodial-estate/) - Two Family Support Workers attended the Lanarkshire event in February and were accompanied by two mothers. This was a great day with both parents contributing valuable feedback on what should influence the direction of support for women and their families.
- [FABI Success at Two National Conferences](https://circle.scot/fabi-success-at-two-national-conferences/) - The work of the FABI team was represented at two Holyrood Conferences this year. These conferences were the Female Offenders Conference in January and Holyrood’s Offender Management Conference in April. The themes of Circles’ presentations were ‘Supporting mothers as they return to the family home to become a better and more confident parent’ and ‘Relationships: Family and the
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 14](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-14/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday Starting in the office, I prepare some material for my first visit, using some children’s wellbeing tools to help a mum understand the impact that her drug use
- [Edible garden encourages healthy eating](https://circle.scot/edible-garden-encourages-healthy-eating/) - Warning – May Contain Puns! The Haven’s edible garden project has grown and is really starting to put down roots. Families have planted, propagated, pruned and started to pluck some great fruit and veg from the soil of Craigroyston. Families have grown curly kale, courgettes, radishes, lots of lettuce, beetroot and cabbage to name but
- [Another amazing Storytelling Project](https://circle.scot/another-amazing-storytelling-project/) - Haven completed their third storytelling week with local families. The project staff walked around Cammo Estate with the parents and children, collecting ideas, objects and inspiration for their story. Mike Nicholson, an Edinburgh-based author who writes children’s fiction, led the creative session forming the main body of the story. A draft story was edited by
- [Scripture Union activity holidays create wonderful memories](https://circle.scot/scripture-union-activity-holidays-create-wonderful-memories/) - The FABI team has continued to strengthen their links with Scripture Union and The Prison Fellowship on providing exciting opportunities for children and young people to attend Scripture Union Holiday Camps over the summer holidays. 43 children and young people were referred from Circle creating wonderful memories for them as they met new friends and
- [Day out to Musselburgh a hit with families!](https://circle.scot/day-out-to-musselburgh-a-hit-with-families/) - 33 of our East Lothian Project families enjoyed a summer picnic on Wednesday 15 July at Musselburgh beach. Children 1st joined Circle to host the day and we were very kindly given donations of food from Tesco and Baynes Baker in Musselburgh. Some fresh cheese and ham rolls were also donated by Jimmy and Suzanne
- [Fun in the Forest!](https://circle.scot/fun-in-the-forest/) - Our Lanarkshire Project kicked off their summer activities on 1 July by running the first day of a ‘Fun in the Forest’ programme. It was the hottest day of the year to date, and the children and the staff had a fantastic time. The children were all very busy making dens, face painting, making headbands
- [Circle involved in new research project](https://circle.scot/circle-involved-in-new-research-project/) - Circle’s Lanarkshire and West Lothian Projects are representing the wider organisation with an exciting action research project. The project aims to address a gap in knowledge, support and evidence that will improve the support for children and young people whose parents are in recovery. The project is run by Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland Partnership
- [Circle Workers train to become facilitators in the Strengthening Families programme](https://circle.scot/circle-workers-train-to-become-facilitators-in-the-strengthening-families-programme/) - Linda Carmichael and Joanne McBrearty have recently completed their training to become facilitators in the Strengthening Families programme. The programme is run over seven week. It aims to bring families together through group discussions, fun games and activities to try at home. It focuses on topics such as managing adolescent behaviour, communication between parents/carers &
- [Sun shines for Harbour BBQ](https://circle.scot/sun-shines-for-harbour-bbq/) - The Harbour Project’s children and families had fun in the sun on 13th August at their family BBQ! There was face painting, messy play, bouncy castles and even the local fire crew turned up. The children were delighted to be allowed to explore the fire engine!
- [Haven Dads enjoy summer outings with their children](https://circle.scot/haven-dads-enjoy-summer-outings-with-their-children/) - The Haven Project’s dads and their children took part in various outings and activities over the summer holidays. They played games in the park, cycled to Cramond and explored the deepest corners of the National Museum. They took to the Union Canal for some splashing about. Special thanks to My Adventure and to Craig from
- [Recovery Hubs collaborative working well](https://circle.scot/recovery-hubs-collaborative-working-well/) - The Harbour team continues to be busy with all referrals now being filtered through the Recovery Hubs. This is working well with Recovery Hub workers now meeting families at the Hubs to explain the support available through the Children Affected by Parental Substance Misuse (CAPSM) services and helping them decide whether or not this is
- [Working in partnership helps improve services in West Lothian](https://circle.scot/working-in-partnership-helps-improve-services-in-west-lothian/) - Partnership seems to have been the theme of the last few months for Circle in West Lothian. We are consolidating our partnership with West Lothian Drug and Alcohol Service (WLDAS) and delivering good results as part of the Family Recovery Service. We have joined up with the Health Improvement Team and WLDAS to deliver a
- [Annual Lecture a success!](https://circle.scot/annual-lecture-a-success/) - Circle’s Annual Lecture was held on Wednesday 7 October. This year’s theme was “Doing the best for children and families when times are hard”. Professor Brigid Daniel of Stirling University and Laura Plumb, Project Manager, Recovery Essentials (EVOC) both gave fascinating presentations which provided the audience with much food for thought and an insight into
- [Support Circle's Kin Choir](https://circle.scot/support-circles-kin-choir/) - Circle’s Kin Choir Christmas Concert will take place on Tuesday 15 December at St Andrew’s & St George’s West Church. Come along and support them and enjoy some festive cheer!
- [Email disruptions](https://circle.scot/email-disruptions/) - Circle is having work carried out on its email server on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th November. This unfortunately means our email service will be down and we will be unable to receive or send emails during this time. If you do email us we may not recieve it, therefore it would be best if
- [Circle participates in GivingTuesday again this year](https://circle.scot/circle-participates-in-givingtuesday-again-this-year/) - Circle is supporting Giving Tuesday UK again this year: a global day of giving, taking place on Tuesday 1st December. As the Christmas season approaches, Giving Tuesday celebrates giving time and money to worthy causes. Last year was a great success and your donations to Circle went towards Christmas parties for the children and families we support.
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 15](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-15/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday I meet my three colleagues in the office at 9am as there are a few team things to discuss and we have been like ships passing in the
- [GivingTuesday next week!](https://circle.scot/givingtuesday-next-week/) - Circle is participating in #GivingTuesday on Tuesday 1st December. #GivingTuesday is a global movement that unites the world for good. We would love you to join us as we celebrate generosity. The money we raise will go towards Christmas parties for the children involved in our ISSEP mentoring project. Any funds raised over and above
- [GivingTuesday is here!](https://circle.scot/givingtuesday-is-here/) - #GivingTuesday is here! We’re delighted to reveal David Tennant’s #UNselfie in support of our Christmas appeal. #GivingTuesday is the global day of giving at the start of the festive season. It’s a day for people around the world to come together to do something for a good cause. #GivingTuesday promotes a counter message to the
- [Circle Family Support Worker releases Christmas single!](https://circle.scot/circle-family-support-worker-releases-christmas-single/) - Our very own Bob Bell has recorded a Christmas single. Bob’s day job is family support worker in Circle’s East and Midlothian project. He is, however, also a very talented singer and songwriter. His passion for this led him to record ‘Receive Your King’, pledging that sales of the single will support Circle. Money raised
- [Staff Development Day](https://circle.scot/staff-development-day/) - Circle staff enjoyed their Staff Development Day at the newly refurbished St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Hamilton. We reflected upon our practice over the past year, sharing our learning with each other. This was followed by a wonderful Christmas meal together!
- [Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival is here!](https://circle.scot/edinburgh-christmas-tree-festival-is-here/) - Circle is delighted to be chosen as one of three charities supported by the Edinburgh Christmas Tree Festival this year. Our families had great fun decorating Circle’s tree. The festival is now open to the public until December 24th and is free entry. Come along to see Circle’s tree and enjoy the magic of the festive season!
- [Circle Christmas Card Competition 2015](https://circle.scot/circle-christmas-card-competition-2015/) - Every year Circle holds a Christmas Card Design Competition. The winning entry is used as Circle’s Christmas card – a great honour! Congratulations to this year’s winner Hollie, age 8 from Edinburgh. We love your sparkly snowman design! Wishing everyone a very merry Christmas and happy New Year from all the staff at Circle.
- [Circle Christmas Single Success](https://circle.scot/circle-christmas-single-success/) - The Christmas single released by Circle’s Bob Bell is a great success so far! We are delighted everyone is enjoying Bob’s song as much as we are. Bob recently featured on Radio Saltire to perform live and chat about the work of Circle. Tune in here if you missed it. In the run up to
- [Tartan Army Children's Charity awards £5,000 to Circle](https://circle.scot/tartan-army-childrens-charity-awards-5000-to-circle/) - Circle’s FABI team were delighted and honoured to be one of two charities chosen by the Tartan Army Children’s Charity (TACC) to be awarded £5,000. TACC’s amazing work promotes supporting disadvantaged children in Scotland and in the countries they visit to watch Scotland’s football team play. They aim to bring happiness to children wherever Scotland
- [Festive Thanks to Christmas Donors](https://circle.scot/festive-thanks-to-christmas-donors/) - Thank you to all those who donated toys and gifts for children and young people supported by Circle. Donations were received from The Salvation Army, Cash for Kids, Inverleith Church, Pilrig St Paul’s Church and St Mary’s Episcopal Church in Hamilton. The Salvation Army also donated food parcels. The sheer volume of gifts donated was overwhelming and Circle’s offices were transformed into
- ["The Alien Assignment" book launch was out of this world](https://circle.scot/the-alien-assignment-book-launch-was-out-of-this-world/) - Circle’s Haven Project took part in their third storytelling event. The end result this year was publication of “The Alien Assignment”, a book written and illustrated by families supported by the project. We were delighted to have our patron David Tennant provide the foreword for the book. During Storytelling Week in the summer of 2015
- [Circle chosen by Antarctica record chaser](https://circle.scot/circle-chosen-by-antarctica-record-chaser/) - Jen Crook has chosen Circle as one of two charities to fundraise for via her upcoming Antarctica expedition. Jen is in training to be the first woman ever to do a solo unsupported walk to the South Pole and back from the edge of Antarctica. Circle is honoured to be one of Jen’s chosen charities,
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 16](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-16/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday I meet a young person in school along with a social worker to look at the young person’s thoughts and feelings over his mum’s recent relapses. I am
- [Circle delighted to participate in Year of the Dad](https://circle.scot/circle-delighted-to-participate-in-year-of-the-dad/) - 2016 is Year of the Dad and Circle is looking forward to being involved in this celebration of fatherhood. As a family support organisation part of our work is to provide tailored support to fathers and fathers-to-be. We encourage the positive involvement of fathers in child development and parenting. Circle was present at the official launch
- [Year of the Dad Seminar 2016](https://circle.scot/year-of-the-dad-seminar-2016/) - Circle in partnership with HMP Addiewell and Families Outside.
- [Antarctica record chaser completes training expedition](https://circle.scot/antarctica-record-chaser-completes-training-expedition/) - Antarctica record chaser Jen Crook completed her Scottish adventure: ‘The Winter Slog’ at the end of March. This training trip comprised an expedition up the length of Scotland, walking from Gretna Green to Cape Wrath – an incredible achievement! Circle’s Business Manager, Annie, and Communications Officer, Claire, joined Jen and labrador Haggis on their Scottish adventure for
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 17](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-17/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. This entry is taken from a couple of weeks before Christmas last year. Names have been changed Monday I start at the West Lothian office this morning. I am part of a learning
- [Circle's Year of the Dad seminar success!](https://circle.scot/circles-year-of-the-dad-seminar-success/) - Circle’s Families Affected by Imprisonment (FABI) team in partnership with HMP Addiewell and Families Outside organised a Year of the Dad seminar in February celebrating the difference a great dad can make. The seminar offered an opportunity for reflection on the value and importance of engaging with fathers, recognising the critical role they play in
- [Circle Success at Scottish Social Work Awards!](https://circle.scot/circle-success-at-scottish-social-work-awards/) - Congratulations to all the nominees and the winners at the Scottish Social Work Awards in Edinburgh last night. It was a brilliant night for Circle, with two of our Family Support Workers winning awards! Pete Cloke was awarded Social Worker of the Year. Sylvia Sword was awarded Practice Teacher of the Year. An absolutely fantastic
- [Spring Staff Development Day - Year of the Dad](https://circle.scot/spring-staff-development-day-year-of-the-dad/) - Our spring Staff Development Day centred around Year of the Dad. Circle staff were joined by Gary Clapton, senior lecturer from University of Edinburgh Social Work, who discussed with us the unique effect a positively involved father can bring to the table. Thanks to Gary and all Circle staff for their sharing of good practice.
- [Scripture Union & Prison Fellowship Partnership Continues](https://circle.scot/scripture-union-prison-fellowship-partnership-continues/) - Circle’s exciting collaboration with Scripture Union and Prison Fellowship is now in its fifth year. These continued positive relationships have enabled many children and young people to attend residential holidays offering fun, food and friends. 35 children and young people supported by Circle attended last year. Scripture Union have been running residential holidays across Scotland
- [Powerful feedback from Intersect - NHS Leadership Academy](https://circle.scot/powerful-feedback-from-intersect-nhs-leadership-academy/) - Intersect is a ground breaking systems leadership programme from the NHS Leadership Academy. Intersect brings health, social and public services together with local government and the third sector for the benefit of the people we help everyday. Intersect programme participants met with staff from Circle’s East Lothian and Haven Projects during their visit to Edinburgh.
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 18](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-18/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday I meet with my manager for supervision. We get regular supervision to make sure we are keeping on track with families. We have a particularly useful discussion around
- [Circle's West Lothian Project secures funding](https://circle.scot/circles-west-lothian-project-secures-funding/) - Circle’s West Lothian Project was successful in securing a year’s funding from Edinburgh & Lothians Health Foundation. This will enable the development of our services supporting families to improve their mental health and emotional well-being. We have recently co-delivered a course called Living Life to the Full with our partners from West Lothian Drug and
- [Easter Family Fun at Circle](https://circle.scot/easter-family-fun-at-circle/) - Harbour We were lucky enough to be awarded respite funding from the City of Edinburgh Council which enabled us to send seven families on holiday to caravans at Pettycur Bay Holiday park during the Easter school break. Feedback from the families who attended was great, with all enjoying some quality time away from home as
- [Circle Hosts Candidates on Senior Policing Strategic Command Course](https://circle.scot/circle-hosts-candidates-on-senior-policing-strategic-command-course/) - The Scottish Violence Reduction Unit hosted a section of the Strategic Command Course (Most Senior Policing Course in the UK) in February. In support of the potential learning on this course, Circle’s FABI and Harbour Teams were delighted to facilitate shadowing visits for four candidates on the course. The aim of the course was for
- [Circle FABI Team at Women & Criminal Justice Event](https://circle.scot/circle-fabi-team-at-women-criminal-justice-event/) - Circle’s FABI team facilitated one of the workshops at a Women and Criminal Justice Event hosted in March. The event was hosted by the Criminal Justice Voluntary Sector Forum and The Prison Reform Trust. The event brought together a mix of people from statutory services, third sector organisations, academic institutions, independent funding organisations and individuals
- [Circle & Sunflower Garden secure tender](https://circle.scot/circle-sunflower-garden-secure-tender/) - Circle’s Harbour Project and Crossreach’s Sunflower Garden Project were successful in securing the tender to provide support for children affected by parental substance use in Edinburgh. The contract from City of Edinburgh council funds 6 Family Support Workers & 2 Children’s Workers for 3 years from 1st April. Circle will work in partnership with Sunflower
- [Circle Patron Arabella Weir](https://circle.scot/circle-patron-arabella-weir/) - Arabella Weir has been one of Circle’s patrons since 2005. Arabella is a comedy writer and performer whose family roots are in Scotland. Arabella says: “It doesn’t take too much imagination to understand why Circle’s work, reaching out to families in trouble, needs support from those of us who have been lucky enough to draw
- [Summer Staff Development Day](https://circle.scot/summer-staff-development-day/) - Circle’s Summer Staff Development Day took place at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Hamilton on June 1st. Thank you to a father who opened our Staff Development Day sharing his experience of the Adult Learning Group he has been actively involved in. He presented a brochure he has developed on “Welcome to the World of
- [Circle's ISSEP Project Celebration](https://circle.scot/circles-issep-project-celebration/) - Circle’s ISSEP Project enjoyed an end of term celebration on May 31st. Around 90 people joined the party at North Edinburgh Arts Centre. It was a fantastic way to celebrate the achievements of the 30 mentors and 30 children involved in the mentoring project this year. Thanks to Ben Macpherson MSP and Deidre Brock MP for joining us
- [Circle Projects have got the Centipede Project bug!](https://circle.scot/circle-projects-have-got-the-centipede-project-bug/) - Circle’s ISSEP Project has enjoyed planting vegetables in the sunshine recently. The children and their mentors grew lettuces and nasturtiums at Circle’s Head Office at West Pilton Park, taking good care of them inside until they were ready to brave the Scottish weather. We then planted the vegetables out into our very own raised bed
- [Circle is wild about native biodiversity with Wild about Scotland](https://circle.scot/circle-is-wild-about-native-biodiversity-with-wild-about-scotland/) - This summer Circle will be going wild about native biodiversity at Edinburgh Zoo with Wild about Scotland! Wild about Scotland is a joint initiative delivered by conservation charity the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) and funded by Clydesdale Bank. It aims to educate the next generation of conservationists about the importance of Scottish wildlife
- ['Women Prisoners: Throw Away the Key?'](https://circle.scot/women-prisoners-throw-away-the-key/) - A thoughtful yet hard hitting documentary ‘Women Prisoners: Throw Away the Key?’ was shown on BBC 1 on Wednesday 15th June at 9.30pm. It was an opportunity to explore how Scotland jails more women than almost anywhere in Northern Europe, the reality of how expensive this is and the impact it has upon women and
- [Join us at Kin Choir's End of Term Concert for Families & Friends](https://circle.scot/join-us-at-kin-choirs-end-of-term-concert-for-families-friends/)
- [David Tennant judges our Father's Day Card Competition!](https://circle.scot/david-tennant-judges-our-fathers-day-card-competition/) - Happy Father’s Day everyone! Circle is proud to celebrate the difference a great dad makes – to children, families and society. In honour of Year of the Dad, Circle’s patron David Tennant judged our Father’s Day card competition, along with his fellow Broadchurch cast members. Our Father’s Day card competition was made up of entries from children supported by
- [The Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry 19](https://circle.scot/the-family-support-worker-diaries-entry-19/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Tuesday This morning I catch up on phone calls and e-mails in the office. Nancy, one of the mums I support, is studying Social Care. She rings to ask
- [Join us for Dads' Adventure Fun Day! Thurs 7th July](https://circle.scot/join-us-for-dads-adventure-fun-day-thurs-7th-july/)
- [Thank you Rhys, age 7, for your generous donation](https://circle.scot/thank-you-rhys-age-7-for-your-generous-donation/) - Rhys, age 7, paid a visit to Circle Head Office on Friday morning. Rhys held a bake sale and sold off some old toys and books to raise money for charity. We were delighted to accept £75 from Rhys, thank you and well done!
- [Check out Circle's Year of the Dad Arts Workshop next week!](https://circle.scot/check-out-circles-year-of-the-dad-arts-workshop-next-week/)
- [Annual Lecture 'Talking Dads' - Save the Date 12th Oct. 2016](https://circle.scot/annual-lecture-talking-dads-save-the-date-12th-oct-2016/)
- [Vibrant new East Lothian partnership](https://circle.scot/vibrant-new-east-lothian-partnership/) - Circle’s former East Lothian PSP has now joined forces with East Lothian Council to develop a vibrant new service for families. The project, now known as East Lothian Intensive Family Support Service (IFSS), continues to work with some of the most hard to reach families in East Lothian. The families are engaged in intensive family
- [Pregnancy Support in East & Midlothian](https://circle.scot/pregnancy-support-in-east-midlothian/) - Circle was successful in securing funding to deliver support to pregnant substance users across East and Midlothian. Fiona Burness took up the post on 1st May 2016. During her first month in post, Fiona met with professionals in the statutory and voluntary sector as well as colleagues from health informing them of and promoting the
- [Thank You to Pro Bono Economics](https://circle.scot/thank-you-to-pro-bono-economics/) - Circle are grateful of the invaluable support of Pro Bono Economics for brokering the specialist Scottish Government economic skills of Caroline MacFarlane and Helen Duncan. The Economists produced an important scoping report which will help measure the impact of Circle’s and Addictions Support and Counselling’s (ASC) new partnership in North & South Lanarkshire, the ‘Women’s
- [Zoo Visits Thanks to Wild about Scotland](https://circle.scot/988-2/) - Thanks to Wild about Scotland and Clydesdale Bank, Circle was given 500 Edinburgh Zoo tickets for families we support. Wild about Scotland is a unique educational outreach programme for young people across Scotland that focuses on our country’s incredible natural biodiversity. The hugely successful project is now in its second year and is run by
- [Circle’s FABI Team and ASC Successful in Big Lottery Bid](https://circle.scot/circles-fabi-team-and-asc-successful-in-big-lottery-bid/) - Circle’s FABI Team and Addictions Support and Counselling (ASC) are delighted to secure 3 years funding from Big Lottery’s Investing in Communities. This is an exciting partnership for the ‘Women’s Outreach Team’ to develop and provide intensive outreach support for women who have been given an alternative to custody, whether this is electronic monitoring or
- [Self-Evaluation Model for Community Justice in Scotland](https://circle.scot/self-evaluation-model-for-community-justice-in-scotland/) - Circle’s FABI Teams (SHINE and Women’s Outreach) supported mothers to participate in a focus group facilitated by the Care Inspectorate. The focus group aimed to gather the views and experiences of women who receive the support of services for families. The views shared in this focus group will contribute to the development of a Self
- [SHINE Funding Extended to 2018](https://circle.scot/976-2/) - Circle’s Families Affected By Imprisonment (FABI) team are delighted that Scottish Government’s Reducing Reoffending Change Fund have approved plans to extend funding for the SHINE PSP for a further year. Grant funding will therefore be provided for the financial year 2017 – 2018. Circle’s FABI team has 3 SHINE mentors supporting women and their families
- [Circle's Haven Project Storytelling Week 2016](https://circle.scot/circles-haven-project-storytelling-week-2016/) - Circle’s Haven Project is celebrating their fourth book ‘Inviting the Zoo to Come Home’. The book was created by children and families supported by the project throughout the week of July 25th-29th. Day 1 – Families and Circle staff visited Edinburgh Zoo (courtesy of Wild about Scotland) where we explored and looked at the animals,
- [Circle's Haven Project 'High-Vis Dads' Arts Workshop](https://circle.scot/circles-haven-project-high-vis-dads-arts-workshop/) - Circle’s Haven Project ‘High-Vis Dads’ Arts Workshop took on the challenge laid down by the Year of the Dad slogan ‘celebrating the difference a great dad can make’. Family life can face many challenges for families in the Forth Ward, where Circle works through its Haven Project. Through the Arts Workshop, we gave Haven families
- [Circle Summer Fun!](https://circle.scot/circle-summer-fun/) - Circle hosted a huge variety of activities for children and families across our projects during the summer holidays, including visits to local attractions, family excursions and celebratory fun days. These trips are a great way for families to spend quality time together in a fun environment, while also exploring and enjoying the sunshine. And the
- [West Lothian Team have been busy](https://circle.scot/west-lothian-team-have-been-busy/) - Circle’s West Lothian team have been busy recently. Staff have had the opportunity to undertake training in ‘Raising Children with Confidence’ and we look forward to delivering this package in partnership with the Health Improvement team in West Lothian. This will complement our ‘Living Life to the Full’ courses that are being planned for after
- [Thank You to Persimmon Homes Community Champion](https://circle.scot/thank-you-to-persimmon-homes-community-champion/) - A huge thank you to Persimmon Homes Community Champion fund for their donation to Circle’s East and Midlothian projects. Their donation will fund summer activities for the families we support!
- [Circle Hosts Bookbug Consultation](https://circle.scot/circle-hosts-bookbug-consultation/) - We were delighted to host a consultation for Scottish Book Trust’s​ Bookbug Song and Rhyme Library at Circle’s Head Office. We welcomed representatives from Dads Rock, NHS Lanarkshire, Shakti Women’s Aid and several others. The consultation will help inform the development of a new song and rhyme resource for Scottish Book Trust’s website for parents and
- [High Viz Dads art & photo exhibition - all welcome!](https://circle.scot/high-viz-dads-art-photo-exhibition-all-welcome/) - In recognition of Year of the Dad, Circle is exhibiting the artwork undertaken by our High Viz Dads this summer, as well as a collection of photographs ‘Celebrating Circle’s Dads’ by Circle’s very own Fiona Burness. We are very excited the exhibition is on display at North Edinburgh Arts Centre from September 19th until October 7th, everyone is
- [Circle's Annual Lecture 'Talking Dads' Oct 12th 2016](https://circle.scot/circles-annual-lecture-talking-dads-oct-12th-2016/)
- [Circle announces new Chief Executive Rhona Hunter](https://circle.scot/circle-announces-new-chief-executive-rhona-hunter/) - Some of you may be aware that Circle’s longstanding Chief Executive Liz Dahl is retiring at the end of this year after over 20 years’ service. We will be sad to see her go as Liz has been the heart and soul of the organisation since taking on the role of Director of Family Service
- [Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry #20](https://circle.scot/family-support-worker-diaries-entry-20/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday I travel to the prison as I have three support meetings with fathers who are soon to be released into the community. I have been assisting one dad
- ['Celebrating Circle Dads' Photo Collection](https://circle.scot/celebrating-circle-dads-photo-collection/) - We are very proud of the ‘Celebrating Circle Dads’ Photo Collection created by our very own Fiona Burness. Fiona’s day job is Young Persons’ Worker at Circle. She is also a very talented photographer. Her passion for this led her to create ‘Celebrating Circle Dads’, highlighting the difference a great dad can make. Enjoy the
- [Family Support Worker Diaries - Entry #21](https://circle.scot/family-support-worker-diaries-entry-21/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday I travel to meet with a mum who is getting an extended contact with her baby daughter. Mia is a young mum and her baby was placed in
- [Circle's Kin Choir Christmas Concert!](https://circle.scot/circles-kin-choir-christmas-concert/)
- [Local MSP Ben Macpherson writes for Circle](https://circle.scot/local-msp-ben-macpherson-writes-for-circle/) - Ben Macpherson, Constituency MSP for Edinburgh Northern and Leith, has put together a fantastic piece for Circle. Read below about his past experiences volunteering with Circle and the ways he is now supporting our work with families. “It’s a privilege to be working to support Circle’s work, as the constituency MSP for Edinburgh Northern and
- [Circle's FABI Project Update](https://circle.scot/circles-fabi-project-update/) - CIRCLE’S FAMILIES AFFECTED BY IMPRISONMENT (FABI) PROJECT STAFFING Circle’s FABI Team would like to extend our warmest thanks to David Moore, who leaves Circle at the end of December due to his funding coming to an end. David has worked with Circle for nearly 13 years and has been a committed and valuable member of
- [Circle's West Lothian Project Update](https://circle.scot/circles-west-lothian-project-update/) - The last few months have seen several of the families supported by our West Lothian Project ‘graduate’ from a range of groups. We have run Living Life to the Full courses, which seven people graduated from and were presented with their certificates. This course helps participants find tools to improve their emotional well-being, and all
- [Circle Christmas Card Competition - WINNER and other entries](https://circle.scot/circle-christmas-card-competition-winner-and-other-entries/) - Congratulations to this year’s winner Lucy, age 12, chosen by our Chief Executive Liz Dahl. Lucy’s design was one of many creations received from children supported by Circle. We love your sparkly reindeer design! Check out all of the fantastic shortlisted entries below. A big well done to all of the children who entered the
- [Circle's Chief Executive Liz Dahl Retires](https://circle.scot/circles-chief-executive-liz-dahl-retires/) - After 20 years of service, Liz Dahl has stepped down as Chief Executive of Circle to enjoy a well-deserved retirement. Liz has led the organisation as Family Service Unit (FSU) and for the past 10 years as Circle. When Liz first came to FSU there were five staff and if we look at the number
- [Circle's Haven Project Update](https://circle.scot/circles-haven-project-update/) - Circle Haven Project’s Early Years groups have been thriving this term and it is always refreshing to receive new referrals and meet new parents from a variety of backgrounds. The groups are supported by our great partnership working with Sarah Neal from CLD who is equally caring, committed and very supportive of the parents and
- [Friends of Circle are Loony 'Dookers'!](https://circle.scot/friends-of-circle-are-loony-dookers/) - Kenny Ferguson, nephew of Chief Executive Liz Dahl, and his daughter Aimee, are taking part in the Loony Dook on New Year’s Day. They are raising funds for Circle to celebrate the end of the Year of the Dad and to mark Liz’s retirement from Circle. Please support these brave ‘Dookers’ to raise money for Circle by
- [Changes to Circle’s Board of Trustees](https://circle.scot/changes-to-circles-board-of-trustees/) - Circle is delighted to welcome three new Trustees to its Board. Jacqui Gillies, Strategic Marketing Consultant, joined us in November. Brigid Daniel, Professor of Social Work at Stirling University and Nickola Paul, NHS Management Trainee, will be joining us in January. They bring with them a wealth of knowledge and expertise which will help to
- [Annual Lecture 'Health Inequalities'](https://circle.scot/annual-lecture-health-inequalities/) - Please note: we have had to change the venue of our event to Royal Botanic Gardens. See full details below.
- [Family Support Worker Diaries](https://circle.scot/family-support-worker-diaries-4/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday On Monday morning I attend a family group decision making meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to bring the expectant parents together with their families to look
- [Family Support Worker Diaries](https://circle.scot/family-support-worker-diaries-3/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday I begin my day with a visit to a mum Mary and her eight year old son John. Mary is 20 weeks pregnant with her second child. Today
- [Circle Information Sessions for Professionals & Students](https://circle.scot/circle-information-sessions-for-professionals-students/) - Circle are now offering regular Information Sessions aimed at professionals from others services, as well as students. These sessions provide an opportunity to come along and find out more about the services which Circle offers and how these can be accessed. These sessions will run from 9.30 – 10.30am and will be based at our Head
- [Circle Family Support Worker selected by Winston Churchill Memorial Trust](https://circle.scot/circle-family-support-worker-selected-by-winston-churchill-memorial-trust/) - Our very own Family Support Worker Lyndsay Fraser-Robertson has been selected by the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust to carry out a travelling fellowship in the ‘Early Years Prevention and Intervention’ category. Lyndsay will travel to the United States to research into services for pregnant women who are drug dependent. She will bring her findings back
- [Mother's Day Card Competition](https://circle.scot/mothers-day-card-competition/) - Well done to all of the children supported by Circle who entered our Mother’s Day card competition! Congratulations to the winner Shelby-Fay Ritchie (age 10) chosen by our patron Arabella Weir. We love your beautiful design! Arabella, comedian, actress and writer, says “As Circle’s patron, I’m delighted to choose the winner of their Mother’s Day
- [Circle's Haven Project](https://circle.scot/circles-haven-project/) - Eight new members joined our Baby Peep Group in January. We have concentrated on introducing sensory materials, such as silk scarves, beads, books and scrunchy materials from our Peep box and singing songs from our Peep song bag. This term our colleague Fiona Burness very kindly photographed all the parents and babies – two of
- [Pregnancy Support Group](https://circle.scot/pregnancy-support-group/) - In East Lothian we have recently delivered our second Pregnancy Support group, in partnership with First Step in Musselburgh. The group is run to support women Circle work with who are using substances in pregnancy, as well as other vulnerable mums-to-be in the local area. We delivered an eight week programme which included topics such
- [Circle’s Whole Family Approach](https://circle.scot/circles-whole-family-approach/) - ’Family clearly remains most people’s first source of support when things go wrong.’ (Park and Roberts, 2002, p203) For the first time, Circle has a set of practice principles that constitute our ‘whole family approach’. The work to draw these up has taken place in collaboration with Dr Gary Clapton at the University of Edinburgh
- [Easter Holiday Fun at Circle](https://circle.scot/easter-holiday-fun-at-circle/) - Circle hosted a huge variety of activities for children and families across our projects during the Easter holidays. ISSEP Mentoring Project Day Trips Circle’s ISSEP Mentoring Project enjoyed several day trips together, getting involved in exciting and educational activities to keep our brains busy over the holidays. We journeyed into town to visit Our Dynamic
- [Family Support Worker Diaries](https://circle.scot/family-support-worker-diaries-2/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday Today I meet my colleague to go over the training we will be delivering tomorrow morning. We discuss the content based on the attendee list and tailor some
- [Launch of Community Justice Scotland](https://circle.scot/launch-of-community-justice-scotland/) - Community Justice Scotland formally came into effect on 1st April 2017. This marks a significant change in Community Justice in Scotland with the aim of collectively strengthening how public services, third sector and other partners work together to prevent and reduce further offending. Circle’s FABI Project look forward to strengthening relationships with Community Justice Scotland
- [Circle awarded grant from Tesco Bags of Help Initiative](https://circle.scot/circle-awarded-grant-from-tesco-bags-of-help-initiative/) - Tesco teamed up with Groundwork to launch its Bags of Help initiative across Scotland. The scheme sees three community groups and projects in each of around 200 Tesco regions awarded grants of £5,000, £2,000 and £1,000 – all raised from the 5p bag charge. greenspace scotland is working with Groundwork to support Scottish communities. Customers
- [Update from our Chief Executive, Rhona Hunter](https://circle.scot/update-from-our-chief-executive-rhona-hunter/) - As this is my first newsletter as the new Chief Executive of Circle, I would like to say a warm hello to those I have yet to meet. It has been a busy but productive few months and I have been very privileged to meet a range of funders, key partners and people who support
- [Father's Day competition](https://circle.scot/david-tennant-judges-fathers-day-competition/) - Happy Father’s Day everyone! Circle is proud to celebrate the difference a great dad makes – to children, families and society. Circle’s wonderful patron David Tennant judged our Father’s Day card competition. The competition was made up of entries from children supported by Circle, well done to all of you. Congratulations to the winner Dani Pavlov, age 9!
- [Family Support Worker Diaries](https://circle.scot/family-support-worker-diaries/) - An anonymous diary entry by one of Circle’s family support workers, who has had a busy week supporting parents and their children. Names have been changed Monday I begin the week with a morning run and then attend our team meeting at our head office. I am usually based in a recovery hub, so it’s
- [Financial Inclusion Adviser](https://circle.scot/circle-welcomes-financial-inclusion-adviser-to-the-team/) - Circle is delighted to welcome Stuart Woods, Financial Inclusion Adviser, to the team! Stuart will provide advice on welfare entitlement, money, and energy issues to vulnerable clients. This will be delivered from partner organisations’ premises across Edinburgh, and via home visits, with the aim of reaching families who would otherwise struggle to access advice services.
- [Circle Summer Adventures](https://circle.scot/circle-summer-adventures/) - We’ve enjoyed a summer packed full of fun activities with the hundreds of families we support across Scotland. Highlights include canoeing, beach days, Blair Drummond Safari Park, cycling, Rib-Aye family lunch, East Links Family Park, swimming, Edinburgh Zoo, Jupiter Artland and children’s festival shows, amongst many others! These trips were a great opportunity for families
- [Feedback worth celebrating!](https://circle.scot/feedback-worth-celebrating/) - Our Development Manager, Angela Gentile, has been gathering feedback from those we work with. Read some of the key messages below.
- [Circle Storytelling Event](https://circle.scot/circle-storytelling-event/) - As part of Book Week Scotland 2017, Circle are holding a reading. See poster below for full details.
- [Update from Circle Chief Executive, Rhona Hunter](https://circle.scot/update-from-circle-chief-executive-rhona-hunter/) - We have again had a busy few months but very enjoyable with hosting lots of summer activities for the families we support. With additional funds raised, families and staff have enjoyed trips to the beach, BBQs and the Safari Park, amongst many others! It is hard to believe that the summer passed so quickly. It

## Pages

- [Home](https://circle.scot/) - Circle is a registered charity working at the heart of communities across central Scotland. We work with families facing multiple disadvantages because of structural inequality, poverty, drug and alcohol use, imprisonment, physical or mental health, trauma, abuse, and loss. We believe that every child, no matter their background or circumstances should have the support they
- [Family voices](https://circle.scot/families/family-voices/) - At Circle we actively listen to the voices of all the family members we work with and provide them with a platform to be heard. We’ve included examples below of how we work alongside children and families to share amplify their voices. Circle developed the below infographic to share our learnings from our involvement in
- [Job Vacancies](https://circle.scot/about-us/job-vacancies/) - Why work with us? • Rewarding and meaningful work • Learning and development opportunities • Competitive salary • Generous pension contribution • Flexible working options • Employee Assistance Programme • Generous annual leave • Supportive and inclusive team I do not expect a thank you for doing my job from the families I work with,
- [Newsletters](https://circle.scot/about-us/newsletters/) - Be the first to hear our latest news, stories, and impact. ➜ Subscribe June 2026 Supporting babies and families with sensory and weaning packs in West Lothian to bringing communities together through local events and fundraising challenges, it’s been a busy and inspiring season at Circle. Read our latest newsletter to discover how grants, partnerships,
- [Publications](https://circle.scot/about-us/publications/) - Annual Reviews 2019-20202019-2020 Annual Review 2019-20 2018-20192018-2019 Annual Review 2018-19 Annual Report and Accounts Circle 2024-25 Annual Report and Accounts Circle 2023-24 Annual Report and Accounts Circle 2022-23 Annual Report and Accounts Impact Reports Circle 2024 Impact Report Circle 2021-22 Impact Report Evaluations 2025 East Lothian Children’s Resilience Project April 25 2022 – Alcohol and
- [Benefact Movement for Good](https://circle.scot/support-us/benefact-movement-for-good/) - With your support, Circle could win a £1,000 Movement for Good Award from Benefact Group. Winners are drawn at random, so every nomination boosts our chances. If you’ve already nominated, you’re all set – your nomination will automatically be carried forward to all remaining £1,000 draws this year, plus the £5,000 Community Award draw! A
- [Board of Directors](https://circle.scot/about-us/our-people/board-of-directors/) - Nickola Jones ChairAbout Nickola Jones×Nickola Jones Nickola is Business Manager for Quality in NHS Lothian. This role involves supporting NHS Lothian’s Chief Quality Officer to deliver quality strategies and has also included projects such as improving organisational learning through patient feedback. Prior to this, Nickola has held various positions in NHS Lothian, in addition to
- [Easy Fundraising](https://circle.scot/support-us/easy-fundraising/) - Help us raise funds for FREE when you shop onlineYou Spend, Brands Donate. Did you know that whenever you buy anything online or in-store – from your weekly shop to your annual holiday – you could be raising free donations for Circle with easyfundraising? There are over 8,000 retailers on board ready to make a
- [Fundraise with us](https://circle.scot/support-us/fundraise-with-us/) - Take part and make a difference Challenge events are a fantastic way to support Circle, while taking on a personal goal of your own. By signing up for a challenge event and choosing to fundraise for Circle, you can help us raise the vital funds needed to support children and families across Central Scotland. There
- [Pregnancy and Early Years](https://circle.scot/services/pregnancy-and-early-years/) - We provide support through a range of different services and groups. Haven Project, North Edinburgh Based in Craigroyston Primary School, this project offers a mix of whole family support and group work. Outreach Support We provide short term support to families with children aged 0 – 5 years. The Outreach Workers alongside the parents will
- [Fathers' Support](https://circle.scot/services/fathers-support/) - We provide support for fathers through a range of different services. Edinburgh (Harbour Project) The Circle Fathers’ Worker offers individual support to children and their fathers impacted by parental substance use. The support also includes a small groupwork programme. (see Families Affected by Drugs & Alcohol) Contact: Julie King, Project Manager Tel: 0131 552 0305
- [Services](https://circle.scot/services/) - Circle has been working across central Scotland since 2006 to ensure that families in Edinburgh, East and West Lothian, North and South Lanarkshire, Fife, Forth Valley and Tayside get the support they need as soon as possible. We have deliberately based our offices in the heart of the local communities we work in to ensure
- [Patrons](https://circle.scot/about-us/our-people/patrons/) - Richard Jobson, Film MakerRichard was born in Fife and brought up there and in Edinburgh. He was lead singer of seventies punk band The Skids before moving into film-making. Among his award winning films are 16 Years of Alcohol and The Purifiers. His most recent release A Woman in Winter, was premiered in Edinburgh to
- [Volunteering](https://circle.scot/support-us/volunteering/) - Circle welcomes volunteers to enhance the services we provide to children and their families. Given the complex nature of the work that is undertaken by our team of Family Support Workers, volunteering opportunities are more likely to be either within the admin team or within our Mentoring Project. Our Mentoring Project mainly recruits volunteers who
- [Mentoring Project](https://circle.scot/services/children-and-young-people/mentoring-project/) - The Mentoring Project The Mentoring Project is a youth-led peer support group that improves the wellbeing of children and young people in deprived areas of North Edinburgh, particularly Pilton and Muirhouse. The Mentoring Project offers a free, accessible, and nurturing after-school environment where children and young people engage in activities, build positive relationships, and develop
- [Management Team](https://circle.scot/about-us/our-people/management-team/) - Kirsten Adamson Chief ExecutiveAlex Collop Head of OperationsJulie King Project Manager HarbourGeorgina Lyttle Project Manager AnchorAngela Gentile Project Manager East LothianBob Bell Project Manager East LothianHazel Tyson Project Manager West LothianChris McCracken Office & Finance Manager
- [Children and Young People](https://circle.scot/services/children-and-young-people/) - We provide support for children and young people through a range of different services. The Mentoring Project Young Persons’ Service, Edinburgh Grow Your Own Routes, East Lothian It has made a big difference. He is more confident in himself, he comes to speak to me about his problems.Parent If there is something bothering me I
- [Parental Imprisonment](https://circle.scot/services/parental-imprisonment/) - We support mothers and fathers at risk of imprisonment and pre and post release from prison and their families in the community. Anchor Project This service supports fathers in Addiewell Prison preparing for release, to help meet their particular support needs. Contact: Georgina Lyttle, Project Manager Tel: 0131 551 7576 Women’s Outreach Team Our service
- [News](https://circle.scot/about-us/news/) - 🍃 Grow Your Own Routes Official Launch! 🍃 🍃 Grow Your Own Routes Official Launch! 🍃Rachel O'Brien2025-02-27T16:18:09+00:00February 27th, 2025| Background to Routes Circle became an early adopter of the ‘Grow Your Own Routes’ [...]Read More Auris Ear Care Collaboration Auris Ear Care CollaborationTasia Meadows2025-02-27T16:14:51+00:00October 10th, 2024|Collaboration with Auris Ear Care We are excited to announce
- [Parents Under Pressure (PuP) Program](https://circle.scot/services/parents-under-pressure-pup-program/) - The Parents under Pressure (PuP) Program is a key part of Circle’s intensive family support, helping parents navigate challenges like trauma, substance use, family conflict, and financial stress. Why Circle Uses Parents under Pressure Parents under Pressure is an evidence-based program that takes a therapeutic partnership approach, empowering parents to build strong, supportive relationships with
- [Hear more about Circle](https://circle.scot/support-us/hear-more/) - Email Address* First Name Last Name Company * = required field Alternative Email: Thank you for signing up to hear from us. We really value your support of our work and hope you’ll continue to be part of our network. Kirsten AdamsonChief ExecutiveCircle
- [About Us](https://circle.scot/about-us/) - Circle is a registered charity working at the heart of communities across central Scotland. We work with families facing multiple disadvantages because of structural inequality, poverty, drug and alcohol use, imprisonment, physical or mental health, trauma, abuse, and loss. We believe that every child, no matter their background or circumstances should have the support they
- [Professionals](https://circle.scot/professionals/) - Circle’s purpose is to improve the lives of children by strengthening families. We work closely with professionals in partner agencies across a range of services and sectors in order to achieve this. Agency Visit – Edinburgh Our Edinburgh based Harbour and Haven Projects will be offering a monthly ‘Agency Visit’ session where staff or students
- [Support Us](https://circle.scot/support-us/) - Thank you for joining Team Circle and choosing to support children and families across Central Scotland. With your help, we can ensure we continue to provide our vital services to support the most disadvantaged children and families in Scotland to improve their lives, promote their healthy development and reach their potential. When you support Circle,
- [Families Affected by Drugs & Alcohol](https://circle.scot/services/families-affected-by-drugs-alcohol/) - We offer a range of services to support children and families affected by parental substance use. We work alongside families to help them build upon existing strengths to make and sustain positive lifestyle choices. Support for parents/carers: We provide services to support: Recovery from substance use Improving family relationships and providing practical support, e.g. establishing
- [Our Projects](https://circle.scot/our-projects/) - Haven What we do: Holistic whole family support to families through early years groupwork, one to one outreach support, father’s groups, primary aged mentoring, and signposting to community resources. Where we are: Project supports those living in North Edinburgh – The project team are based in Craigroyston Primary School. Downloadable PDF: Haven services & contact
- [The Promise](https://circle.scot/families/the-promise/) - Blogs Have a read of the: Theory of Change blog written by our Development Manager, Douglas Guest.
- [Grow Your Own Routes (East Lothian Service)](https://circle.scot/services/children-and-young-people/grow-your-own-routes/) - Grow Your Own Routes was created to fill a gap in support for young people in many areas of Scotland including East Lothian. Lots of services focus on the young people's own drug/alcohol use and Scottish Families found that there is not much support for those who are affected by the drug/alcohol use of a family member. Circle Scotland Supporting Families in Scotland
- [Family Rights and Inclusion](https://circle.scot/families/family-rights-and-inclusion/)
- [The DARED Challenge 2023](https://circle.scot/support-us/the-dared-challenge-2023/) - ‘Do A Run Every Day’ in June Thank you for showing your interest in our Circle exclusive virtual event. Join hundreds of other runners to take on the DARED Challenge, and incorporate exercise into your daily lives, whilst supporting children and families across Scotland. Are you ready to join us in 2023 for the 6th
- [DARED - Frequently Asked Questions](https://circle.scot/support-us/the-dared-challenge-2023/dared-frequently-asked-questions/) - Frequently Asked Questions How do I fundraise?wp_cir2023-01-30T11:48:38+00:00How do I fundraise?To set up your fundraising page just visit JustGiving and select “Start Fundraising”. You can set up a page as an individual or as a group. Remember to personalise your page and share it with as many people as possible. We have guidelines for setting up
- [Domestic abuse](https://circle.scot/services/domestic-abuse/) - Caledonian Children’s Service Referrals to the children’s service are internal to the Caledonian Service. We are working in partnership with South Lanarkshire Council and Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire to deliver The Caledonian System, an integrated approach to address men’s domestic abuse and to improve the lives of women, children and men. The Children’s Worker will
- [Case Studies](https://circle.scot/support-us/winter-campaign/case-studies/) - Sam’s Story: Sam is a single mum with two seven-month-old twins, who recently gave up her tenancy in Edinburgh and relocated to stay with her sister to get some extra support for her children. She told us about the difficulties she is experiencing living on benefits with two babies, who are constantly growing and require
- [Women’s Outreach Team](https://circle.scot/services/parental-imprisonment/womens-outreach-team/) - Referrals to the Women’s Outreach Team can either be self-referrals or by a wide range of voluntary and statutory professionals A whole family support and therapeutic counselling service for mothers and their families in response to the complex health and social care needs experienced by women affected by domestic abuse, substance use and poor mental
- [Addiewell Service](https://circle.scot/services/parental-imprisonment/addiewell-service/) - Referrals to the Addiewell service can either be self-referrals or by voluntary and statutory professionals. Criteria Men currently in HMP Addiewell, who are fathers with children aged 18 and under; Men who are fathers who are leaving HMP Addiewell and returning to North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire and West Lothian. A whole family support service for
- [Women’s Outreach Team (Alternatives to Custody)](https://circle.scot/services/parental-imprisonment/womens-outreach-team-alternatives-to-custody/) - Referrals to the Women’s Outreach Team (Alternatives to Custody) can either be self-referrals and/or a range of voluntary and statutory professionals. A whole family support and therapeutic counselling service, in partnership with Recovery Scotland (previously known as Addictions, Support and Counselling, ASC) for mothers who have been given an Alternatives to Custody (North Lanarkshire and
- [Make a Donation](https://circle.scot/support-us/donation/) - Help Support Vulnerable Local Children Circle is a Scottish charity working at the heart of deprived communities across central Scotland. Our aim is to support the most disadvantaged children and families to improve their lives, promote their healthy development and reach their potential. Make a donation to Circle hereWhere does your money go? Pays for
- [Vision and Purpose](https://circle.scot/about-us/vision-and-purpose/) - Circle is a Scottish charity working at the heart of deprived communities across central Scotland. Our aim is to support the most disadvantaged children and families to improve their lives, promote their healthy development and reach their potential. Social injustice, poverty and health inequalities are associated with families experiencing drug or alcohol addiction, imprisonment, neglect
- [Taking Part](https://circle.scot/families/taking-part/) - PARTICIPATION Circle aims to give the children, and families, we work with the confidence and opportunity to have their voices heard and be listened to. We want to share their experiences in order to raise awareness of the challenges they face. We want to share their progress in order to celebrate the changes they have
- [Full Circle Group](https://circle.scot/families/full-circle-group/) - Circle have worked with a group of parents on a variety of participatory projects. The Corra Children, Young People and Families Early Intervention Fund and Adult Learning and Empowering Communities Fund has enabled ‘The Full Circle Group’ to be active participants in the following developments: A Wellbeing Group – In a test of the SHANARRI
- [What does Wellbeing mean - slides](https://circle.scot/families/wellbeing/) - Click on a slide to scroll through all slides in the Wellbeing series Achieving Active Healthy Included Nurtured Respected Responsible Safety
- [Young Persons’ Service](https://circle.scot/services/children-and-young-people/young-persons-service/) - We support young people who want to make positive choices around alcohol and/or drug use. It’s free, friendly, confidential and non-judgemental. Are you a young person wanting support? Your drug and alcohol use doesn’t need to be out of control to be referred for support We can support you to make better choices when using
- [Families](https://circle.scot/families/) - Welcome to our Families section! Families are at the heart of everything we do at Circle and we are proud to bring you examples of their involvement in our services. Please click on any of the sub-menu items to find out more. “At Circle you feel like you are part of something. The Circle gets
- [Students](https://circle.scot/about-us/students/) - Circle has a long-standing reputation for providing high quality, diverse learning opportunities for social work students from universities across Scotland. For students we can: Provide placements that offer a broad range of learning opportunities across Children and Families work, with a specific focus on whole family support. Allocate a mix of family work and group
- [Our Funders](https://circle.scot/support-us/our-funders/) - Circle is proud to be a voluntary sector organisation and we are grateful to all our funders listed below for supporting the work that we do. We are also extremely grateful to other organisations, trusts and individuals not listed below who also donate very generously. Baillie Gifford The Cattanach Trust Chance to Flourish The City
- [Infographic Series](https://circle.scot/whole-family-approach/infographic-series/) - This set of infographics were designed to visualise and simplify the content and findings from Thinking Family, Acting Family. What we did (slides 1 – 2) Findings 1 ‘Problems & Challenges’ (slides 3 – 6) Findings 2 ‘Barriers & Access’ (slides 7 – 12) Findings 3 ‘Does it Work?’ (slides 13 – 15) Findings 4
- [Whole Family Approach](https://circle.scot/whole-family-approach/) - Circle’s Whole Family Approach in Practice Staying with families while they resolve or manage difficulties and develop new skills or maintain existing ones is central to the whole family approach. Building relationships takes time and understanding the nuances of each family is part of the whole family approach. We seek to build up trust and
- [Resources](https://circle.scot/whole-family-approach/resources/) - Literature Review Download the findings from Circle’s Literature Review here. Whole Family Approach – Research Project Download Circle’s Thinking Family, Acting Family presentation here. Reading List Becci A. Akin, Michelle Johnson‐Motoyama, Sharah Davis, Megan Paceley and Jody Brook (2018) Parent perspectives of engagement in the strengthening families program: An evidence‐based intervention for families in child
- [Thinking Family, Acting Family](https://circle.scot/whole-family-approach/thinking-family-acting-family/) - Dr Gary Clapton Angela Gentile Early on in 2017 Dr Gary Clapton (Reader in Social Work and Programme Director for BSc (Hons) in Social Work) and Angela Gentile (Development Manager) collaborated to identify the progress families made in relation to resolving ‘referring problems’ – issues that had been designated by a variety of sources, mainly
- [Privacy Notice](https://circle.scot/privacy-policy/) - At Circle we fully respect your right to privacy and we are committed to protecting personal data that we collect about you and we will handle it in accordance with Data Protection law. The principles of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) require us to make sure your data is accurate, kept up-to-date and that
- [How to make a complaint](https://circle.scot/about-us/how-to-make-a-complaint/) - Circle is committed to providing high quality services for vulnerable children and families. This means working in partnership with parents, empowering and advocating on behalf of service users, and ensuring that the needs of children remain at the centre. This is underpinned by the principle that no service user receives less favourable treatment or is
- [Previous Newsletters](https://circle.scot/about-us/previous-newsletters/) - If you would like to subscribe to Circle’s newsletter please follow this link. To read any of the previous newsletters simply click on the desired edition below and it should open in a new tab/window. September 2019June 2019February 2019November 2018September 2018June 2018March 2018December 2017August 2017May 2017December 2016August 2016May 2016January 2016August 2015May 2015December 2014September 2014
- [Latest Newsletter](https://circle.scot/about-us/latest-newsletter/) - Latest Newsletter: September 2019 | View previous Newsletters
- [Contact us](https://circle.scot/contact-us/) - Get in touch directly… Circle 18 West Pilton Park Edinburgh EH4 4EJ t. 0131 552 0305 f. 0131 551 3976 e. info@circle.scot Or complete the form below and we’ll get back to you… Your Name (required) Your Email (required) Subject Your Message Δ ×
- [Cookie Policy](https://circle.scot/cookie-policy/) - This site uses cookies – small text files that are placed on your machine to help the site provide a better user experience. In general, cookies are used to retain user preferences, store information and provide anonymised tracking data to third party applications like Google Analytics. As a rule, cookies will make your browsing experience
- [News Archive](https://circle.scot/news-archive/) - To view a previous news article select a month from the dropdown menu below. Past News… Past News… Select Month February 2025 October 2024 June 2024 April 2024 December 2023 October 2023 September 2023 May 2023 March 2023 February 2023 January 2023 December 2022 November 2022 October 2022 September 2022 August 2022 July 2022 June
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- [Holding Page](https://circle.scot/holding-page/) - NEW WEBSITE COMING SOON

## FAQs

- [Can I use a treadmill?](https://circle.scot/faq-items/can-i-use-a-treadmill/) - Whilst there are benefits to running outside with others, sometimes convenience and weather makes the draw of a treadmill appealing. As long as the distance is covered, the challenge is completed. If a treadmill is used, photos of the screen can be taken at the completion of each run to record progress.
- [How do I record my runs?](https://circle.scot/faq-items/how-do-i-record-my-runs/) - There are countless free smartphone apps which you can use to record your runs. Strava is particularly good as it allows you to plan as well as record your run. We are hosting a DARED club where you can see how the other participants are getting on. If you would to be added to this
- [What is the entry fee?](https://circle.scot/faq-items/what-is-the-entry-fee/) - There are two entry choices and if you sign up before 16th April there is an Early Bird discount: Fundraising – the early bird fee is £10 (£15), which covers your event welcome pack, t-shirt, medal and enables you to take part in the event with a fundraising target of £50pp. Non-Fundraising – the early
- [How do I fundraise?](https://circle.scot/faq-items/how-do-i-fundraise/) - To set up your fundraising page just visit JustGiving and select “Start Fundraising”. You can set up a page as an individual or as a group. Remember to personalise your page and share it with as many people as possible. We have guidelines for setting up your page for beginners and advanced event people who
- [Do I have to run?](https://circle.scot/faq-items/do-i-have-to-run/) - In the same way that you can’t turn up for a marathon with some roller skates, the DARED challenge must be completed on foot. How fast you go is completely up to you. It is however a challenge, so push yourself!

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://circle.scot/category/uncategorized/)
- [Circle News 2017](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2017/)
- [Circle News 2016](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2016/)
- [Circle News 2015](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2015/)
- [Circle News 2014](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2014/)
- [Circle News 2018](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2018/)
- [Circle News 2019](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2019/)
- [Circle News 2020](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2020/)
- [Circle News 2021](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2021/) - Circle News 2021
- [Circle News 2022](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2022/)
- [Circle News 2023](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2023/)
- [Circle News 2024](https://circle.scot/category/circle-news-2024/)

## FAQ Categories

- [DARED](https://circle.scot/faq_category/dared/)