Visiting KCCF strategic partners in Scotland

KCCF recently visited Edinburgh and the Isle of Arran to meet two of our strategic partners – Age Scotland and the Community of Arran Seabed Trust (COAST). It was fantastic to learn more about how KCCF funding is supporting their impactful work helping older people and protecting the marine environment.

COAST

Nestled on the Isle of Arran, COAST stands as a beacon of community-led marine conservation. This pioneering charity established Scotland’s first No-Take Zone in Lamlash Bay which provides a crucial breeding and nursery ground for various marine species, and this was subsequently followed by the creation of the South Arran Marine Protected Area in 2016.

We visited the COAST Discovery Centre, an educational hub where visitors can delve into the island’s marine biodiversity and ongoing conservation efforts. Interactive exhibits, a catch-and-release marine tank showcasing local marine life, and a variety of marine-themed activities provide an immersive experience for all ages.

KCCF also explored COAST’s research vessel and experienced how remote cameras are helping to explore and monitor sea life in the No-Take Zone (an area where all fishing is prohibited) and the Marine Protected Area (where dredging is prohibited). It was wonderful to see so much marine life thriving and to learn how this exemplar project is inspiring other coastal communities across the UK and internationally.

Age Scotland

As the national charity for older people, Age Scotland is committed to enhancing the lives of those over 50. Their multifaceted approach includes providing a free, confidential helpline offering information and advice, supporting community groups across Scotland, and tackling loneliness and isolation through friendship services.

KCCF funding has helped the charity to expand the support offered through their Information, Advice and Friendship service. Last year, their free helpline handled almost 30,000 calls and identified over £2 million in unclaimed social security for older people. And the friendship service handled nearly 6,000 friendship calls, helping to tackle loneliness and isolation; and almost 130,000 free printed information guides were distributed to support older people, their families and carers.

We enjoyed spending time with the Age Scotland team, learning more about their work – from their 600+ community member groups providing in person support across the nation to their 70+ free information guides helping older people and their carers with practical advice on common issues.

Nikki Jeffery, KCCF Executive Director, said

We left Scotland feeling really inspired and I would like to extend our thanks to Age Scotland and COAST for their warm hospitality. I was so impressed with the commitment of their teams and their close engagement with their communities to respond to pressing social and environmental issues which matter to them and which will bring about positive change for years to come.