Vintage Vibes Moves To Become an Independent Charity

VINTAGE VIBES MOVES TO BECOME AN INDEPENDENT CHARITY

We are thrilled to announce that in our 10th year, Vintage Vibes is embarking on an exciting new journey – moving to become an independent charity!

This is a pivotal moment for us, one that marks both a new beginning and the continued development of our important mission to tackle loneliness in older people through friendship.  

For nearly a decade, Vintage Vibes has worked alongside wonderful parent charities, LifeCare and Space, and with their full support, we are now ready to step out on our own in 2025.

We hope this move will empower us to create even more meaningful, long-term friendships and build vibrant communities for amazing over 60s and volunteers as part of a fresh-thinking five-year strategy.  

The work ahead will be challenging, especially as the charity sector faces growing pressures of increased demand, costs and increased competition for funding.

The first year or so may be tough, but we are confident that this transition will lay the groundwork for a stronger future, and our commitment to reducing loneliness through long-lasting relationships and groups remains unwavering.   

We are planting the seeds for a future of friendships and everyone can be a part of it. Whether you’re an individual, a business, or a community group, there are many ways you can help us shape the future of Vintage Vibes and transform the lives of isolated older people in Edinburgh and beyond.  

Together, we can create a future where no one has to face loneliness alone. For now, we thank you everyone from our wonderful volunteers to our fantastic funders for your ongoing support, and, of course, for your friendship.  

Helen Forsyth, Chair, Vintage Vibes

“I have enjoyed enormously watching this creative, thoughtful and energetic organisation grow and develop. It is now ready to be independent and we welcome that. Befriending has long been a passion of mine and I have in past times been an active befriender. This is one of the most important ways to tackle isolation and loneliness in older people and something that brings such joy can only go from strength to strength.”

Sarah van Putten, CEO, LifeCare

“As Vintage Vibes approaches it’s 10th Birthday, we feel it is the right time for it become an independent charity in its own right. It has been wonderful to work in partnership with SPACE at Broomhouse to develop Vintage Vibes and to see it grow and flourish and we will be continuing to support and share our expertise, as they take this next important step.”

Neil Hay, CEO, Space

“I’m inspired by Vintage Vibes’ remarkable growth and impact over the past few years. Through innovative programs and unwavering dedication to the VIPs, Vintage Vibes has transformed countless lives. The positive ripple effect of their work is a testament to the power of love and compassion.

Their commitment to making a difference has uplifted communities and inspired an outstanding volunteer team to join their cause; their collective effort will hold them in good stead as they move into the next chapter as an independent charity.”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

We have created an Information Pack about the move including Frequently Asked Questions, available below:

There is so much that you can do to help us thrive and transform lives within Edinburgh.

• You can volunteer within a friendship, in the office or even as a trustee.
• You can support us, as an individual, through your place of work or by doing an exciting fundraising challenge.
• You can become an ambassador and help us spread the word about tackling loneliness online and offline.

We welcome everyone to be part of this journey and would love to hear from you if you would like to make a difference!

SUPPORTING FUTURE FRIENDSHIPS…

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to help us secure the future of friendships for more local people in Edinburgh, here are a few ways that you can make a real difference (only if you’d like to and are able to support, absolutely no pressure!).

Make a One Time Donation

• You can send a cash or cheque donation to Vintage Vibes to the address below. Please make cheques out to LifeCare Edinburgh and include a note with your name, contact details and “Vintage Vibes” so we can direct your gift properly.

• You can also donate via our website at https://vintagevibes.org.uk/support/

Become a Monthly Supporter

• Joining our family of regular donors helps us plan and grow.

You can set up a donation of £3, £5, £10, or more per month through our website, or contact us if you’d prefer a form sent by post.

(Thank you so much to the fabulous folks who already support us in this way each month – you are amazing!)

If you have any other ideas of how you might like to support our work creating friendships for over 60s across the city, please do not hesitate to let us know.

Call us on 0131 343 0955

Email on [email protected]

Write to us at Vintage Vibes, LifeCare,

2 Cheyne Street, Edinburgh, EH4 1JB