Success of the South West Villages Project

The Eric Liddell Centre led on the South West Villages from 2017-2019 and have just completed their final report. The project took a community development approach, looking at issues facing older people in Juniper Green, Currie and Balerno.

The project included mapping of existing services, consultation, engagement events, provided opportunities for existing groups to come together, identified issues and developed solutions to support the health and well-being of older people in the future.

The area faces particular challenges compared to other parts of Edinburgh – a higher than average ageing population, relative rurality, limited transport and lack of coverage of befriending and other care services.

A key finding of the project was that the area offers many activities and groups that are held regularly in public venues across the three villages. There is a strong sense of community and most groups and activities are run solely by volunteers, who are a fantastic asset to the area.

Caroline Clark, Development Officer for the South West Villages Project said:

‘It has been a privilege to work with many of the local groups for older people in Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green. The commitment of the volunteers and workers that provide the activities and support is amazing and helps to make the area a great place to live and grow older. However, the project has also been able to highlight challenges faced, particularly in terms of transport and access to support and services. The Eric Liddell Centre is keen to continue to develop links in the area and support local groups where it can in the future.’

 

Read the full report here