Youth Philanthropy Initiative
This is a project involving secondary school pupils with the aim of getting them involved with local charities. Groups of pupils choose a charity which has an emphasis on some aspect of social care, and they do some research in their chosen field. They then do a presentation to their fellow pupils. The winning group then goes forward to national level, and the ultimate winning group wins £3000 for their chosen charity. Some groups also fundraise for their chosen groups.
We have been involved with several schools so far, St Margaret’s School for Girls, Ellon Academy, Banchory Academy, Elgin High School, Mackie Academy and two groups at Keith Grammar School. So far, we haven’t been in the top slot, but we have been in the semi finals. All this exposure means that eating disorders awareness is raised in schools, and for that we are immensely grateful. We are also very appreciative of any fundraising activities the schools undertake.
We cannot speak too highly of the enthusiasm and commitment of all the young people we have worked with.
Chairperson’s Report 2026May 5, 2026 - 5:34 pm
Sara Preston, Scottish Young Ambassador for b-eat
/in News/by Heather CassieSara Preston, Scottish Young Ambassador for b-eat
We were extremely lucky to secure the services of Sara Preston, one of b-eat’s Scottish Young Ambassadors to come and talk to us at the November meeting. Sara started by giving us an insight into the work of b-eat and what the Young Ambassadors do. She then gave us an account of her own experience of having an eating disorder as an adolescent and subsequent recovery and the completion of her studies. Many of our group members were very moved by her words, and inspired by what she has achieved. She then, very generously took part in our sharing time, spending time with both carers and sufferers.
“This is Me” Calendar
/in News/by Heather Cassie“This is Me” Calendar
One of our group members and some of her friends and family came together to produce a calendar which celebrates positive body image, raising funds for the national charity Body Gossip and NEEDS(Scotland). The group have included a positive statement about body image on each page. The calendar has been featured in Trend magazine, the online publication Aberdeen Voice, and also the Evening Express.
We wish them well for their launch night at The Albyn, on Saturday November 9th at 7.30pm.
Youth Philanthropy Initiative
/in News/by Heather CassieYouth Philanthropy Initiative
This is a project involving secondary school pupils with the aim of getting them involved with local charities. Groups of pupils choose a charity which has an emphasis on some aspect of social care, and they do some research in their chosen field. They then do a presentation to their fellow pupils. The winning group then goes forward to national level, and the ultimate winning group wins £3000 for their chosen charity. Some groups also fundraise for their chosen groups.
We have been involved with several schools so far, St Margaret’s School for Girls, Ellon Academy, Banchory Academy, Elgin High School, Mackie Academy and two groups at Keith Grammar School. So far, we haven’t been in the top slot, but we have been in the semi finals. All this exposure means that eating disorders awareness is raised in schools, and for that we are immensely grateful. We are also very appreciative of any fundraising activities the schools undertake.
We cannot speak too highly of the enthusiasm and commitment of all the young people we have worked with.
University Freshers Fairs 2013
/in News/by Heather CassieNEEDS (Scotland) were able to attend the Freshers’ Fayres at both Aberdeen University and The Robert Gordon University. This raises awareness of eating disorders, and also about our group and the support we offer. It also provides the opportunity for anyone to share their concerns, or perhaps offer assistance to the group in some way.