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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

A huge thank you to everyone who joined our AGM 2026 🧡 This year we shared: ✨ 5,271 registered members ✨ 1,322 ESOL learners ✨ 227 Friendship Group sessions ✨ 3,745 volunteering hours Thanks to our Board, staff, volunteers and Community Voices for making the evening happen.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

A huge thank you to Waverley Care and all the organisations who joined our recent Women’s Health and Wellbeing Session 🧡 27 women attended, with 11 organisations sharing support on women’s health, screening, mental health, carers, FGM, family support and more. Huge thanks too to our volunteers 💛

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

We’re nearing the end of our 8-week Bridges to Success course at Inch House 🧡 We’re so proud of this group, and hugely grateful to our partners, funders and Inch House. Our next course starts in Central Edinburgh this October 👇 www.thewelcoming.org/services/emplo…

Group of diverse people standing together inside a rustic stone-walled room with arched ceilings and wooden doors.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

We’re hiring 🧡 The Welcoming is looking for an Arabic-Speaking Energy Advisor to support New Scots households in Edinburgh with free, impartial energy advice. 🕒 18 hrs/week 📍 Hybrid, Edinburgh ⏰ Apply by 9 Oct More: www.thewelcoming.org/get-involved-t…

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

We’re nearing the end of our 8-week Bridges to Success course at Inch House 🧡 This week, parents shared their feedback: 💬 “I learn from you how to interview and how to have confidence.” Huge thanks to Sandra, Laura, our partners and funders, and everyone who’s taken part 💛

Diverse group of nine people standing inside a rustic stone-walled room with arched ceilings, smiling and posing for a photo.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Today we welcomed Equalities Minister Simita Kumar MSP to The Welcoming 🧡 We spoke about community cohesion, belonging, social connection and the shared challenges facing people across Edinburgh. Simita said, "I can really see the passion behind the work being done here."

Six diverse professionals stand smiling outside a building with a 'The Welcoming' sign on the window behind them.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Peace is global, but it is built locally 🕊️ This #InternationalDayOfPeace, the UN theme is Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day. In Edinburgh, that means building communities rooted in dignity, connection, inclusion and belonging, and challenging division when we see it. 🧡

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

Congratulations to our latest English learners receiving certificates for attending 25, 50 or more drop-in classes this year 🧡 One learner shared: “You are more than just a school or a centre — you are a community that cares.” Huge thanks to our volunteer teachers 💛 ow.ly/ybM650Z3MIK

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

We’re delighted to welcome Gill Gracie, Janine Kellett and Brendan Paddy to The Welcoming’s Board of Trustees 🧡 They bring expertise in youth work, policy, homelessness, charity leadership, governance, advocacy and community participation. Welcome to The Welcoming! 💛

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

You’re invited to The Welcoming Association’s AGM 2026 🧡 Hear updates, visit our impact stalls, meet our community and celebrate another year of resilience and welcome. 📅 Thu 1 Oct 🕔 5-8pm 📍 41 George IV Bridge Book: www.eventbrite.com/e/1997565867282?…

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Thanks to Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, we organised 8 Fringe outings for members, families, young people, staff and volunteers 🎭 Culture should feel open and welcoming to everyone. Huge thanks to Edinburgh Festival Fringe 🧡

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Friendship is not an extra. It helps people rebuild 🧡 As we close our 10 Years of The Welcoming Friendship Project campaign, we’re sharing voices from Conversation Café. “I will thank The Welcoming. It has changed my life here in the UK.” Thank you to everyone who made 10 years possible 💛

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

This summer, a lovely #RefugeeWeek community event at the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Open Learning raised £126 for The Welcoming 🧡 With music from Duo Hyperborea, refreshments and conversation, it brought people together in a spirit of welcome. Huge thanks to everyone involved 💛

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Turning rubbish into treasure boats 🚤🌿 Families joined us at the Water of Leith Visitor Centre to learn what should and shouldn’t be in the river, then turned the rubbish they found into boats to race together. Huge thanks to Water of Leith Conservation Trust for another brilliant session 🧡

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

We’re celebrating 10 years of The Welcoming Friendship Programme 🧡 Since 2016, it has grown from Befriending to Conversation Café, Scotland for Newcomers, outings, creative sessions and partnerships across Edinburgh. Read more: www.thewelcoming.org/10-years-welco…

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Our Botanics Gardening Group has been growing beautifully 🌿☀️ Members have been successfully growing veggies and herbs, cooking and preparing food together, and enjoying the kind summer weather. Huge thanks to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Elinor, and our brilliant volunteers Barbara and Nikou 🧡

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

10 years of new friendships 🧡 For people rebuilding their lives in a new place, friendship is not a small thing. Over 10 years, our Friendship Project has grown through Befriending, conversation groups, outings, activities and partnerships. “You have changed my life.”

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

We Are Friends 🧡 This August, we’re celebrating 10 years of The Welcoming Friendship Project, from Befriending and Scotland for Newcomers to Conversation Café, outings and activities. One member told us: “You have changed my life.”

Four diverse friends smiling and posing together behind a colorful frame that reads 'We Are Friends' against a stone wall backdrop.

Seven diverse friends smiling together while holding a colorful frame that reads 'We Are Friends' against a stone wall backdrop.

Diverse group of people posing outdoors in front of stone buildings, some holding a colorful rectangular frame.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

Last week our member Tiffany led a beautiful Mindfulness in Nature session 🌿 The group walked in silence, noticing sounds, scents, textures, and colours, before gathering for warm tea and a mindful drinking practice as part of a programme focused on mental wellbeing within our community. 🧡

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Families had a lovely time at our recent Water of Leith session with Gillian from Water of Leith Conservation Trust 🌿 We explored nature, discovered tiny river creatures, created a nature mandala and even stepped into the river. Next session: Tuesday 4 August. Details coming soon in WhatsApp 🧡

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

Today marks 75 years of the Refugee Convention. Here in Edinburgh, the right to seek safety still matters. People fleeing danger deserve dignity, protection and welcome. Read our article: www.thewelcoming.org/edinburgh-refu…

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 24/07/2026

Sunny July Saturday well spent 🌉☀️ Our Scotland for Newcomers group walked across the iconic Forth Road Bridge. The group is open to everyone, with inclusive Saturday meet-ups around Edinburgh and beyond. Huge thanks to Colin and our brilliant volunteers for making these trips happen 🧡

Group of diverse young adults posing on a waterfront promenade with a large red bridge and blue sky in the background. Scotland for Newcomers outing.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Our Summer Newsletter is here 🌞 In this edition, we’re starting to share more impact stats and stories of change from The Welcoming, alongside updates from our community and a message from Tesfu. Read it here: www.thewelcoming.org/read-our-summe…

thewelcoming.org

Read Our Summer Newsletter - The Welcoming

Read our Summer Newsletter for impact stats, stories of change, service updates and a message from our CEO, Tesfu Gessesse.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

We were one of 219 charities who signed this letter to the incoming PM 🧡

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

Last month, The Money Charity delivered four Financial Wellbeing workshops for our members 💷 Topics included UK banking, budgeting, credit, borrowing and keeping money safe. We had 39 attendances across the sessions. Huge thanks to The Money Charity and Jess for facilitating 💛

Three people seated around a table engaging in a card sorting activity with labeled cards spread out in front of them.

Teacher giving a presentation to a small group of students seated in colorful chairs in a classroom setting.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Bridges to Success is back 💼 Our 8-week employability course for New Scots parents starts on Tuesday 18 August at Inch House. We cover - job searching, applications, cover letters, interviews and employment rights. More info: www.thewelcoming.org/services/emplo…

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

Last week our colleague Asia introduced Birds of War at Filmhouse Edinburgh 🎬 Afterwards, one of our Syrian members said it made them happy to see stories like theirs, their family’s and thousands of others represented on screen. Huge thanks to Filmhouse Edinburgh and Dogwoof for inviting us!🧡

Woman in a green shirt and headscarf speaking into a microphone while holding papers in front of a movie screen at a special screening event. Birds of War at the Filmhouse in Edinburgh.

Group of eight diverse people standing indoors against a wooden slat wall, smiling at the camera with casual attire and backpacks. Birds of War at the Filmhouse in Edinburgh.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

We recently welcomed Darwen Asylum Refugee Enterprise to The Welcoming for a valuable exchange of ideas and experience. With one of our Holistic Caseworkers involved, we shared learning on supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. More about DARE: www.daredarwen.org.uk

Diverse group of eight people sitting around a table in a bright meeting room with snacks and drinks. Darwen Asylum Refugee Enterprise to The Welcoming

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 07/07/2026

Recently, our members joined Day of Access, Plant Listening and The University of Edinburgh for activities exploring plants, nature, land and belonging 🌿 Our Friendship Group Coordinator, Gosia, wrote: “...we all returned with smiles, clearer minds, and hearts a little closer to nature.” 🧡

Diverse group of people smiling and posing together on a sunny grassy field under large trees.

Group of five women standing outdoors near modern buildings, each holding colorful wildflowers and smiling warmly at the camera.

A group of people seated at a long table sketching botanical drawings with pencils, surrounded by various flowers and leaves.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

A huge congratulations to the latest Bridges to Success graduates at Duncan Place 🎓🧡 Over eight weeks, parents built skills in job searching, applications, interviews and workplace rights. Thanks to Sandra, Laura, Capital City Partnership, The City of Edinburgh Council and the Scottish Gov💛

Diverse group of adults seated in a classroom with notebooks and coffee, facing forward under colorful bunting decorations.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 30/06/2026

🎬 Birds of War comes to Filmhouse Edinburgh on Wednesday 8 July at 8:30pm, introduced by our colleague Asia Hart-Eason. A powerful story of love, war and displacement, with English subtitles. 🎟️ £3 tickets for refugees and people seeking asylum: www.filmhouse.org.uk/movie/birds-of…

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

Proud. Brave. Seeking safety. Refugees created this banner with Waverley Care, then carried it at Edinburgh Pride. After suspected anti-Muslim attacks across our city, its message mattered even more. We stand together against hate and for everyone’s safety and dignity. 🏳️‍🌈

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 24/06/2026

Advocacy is how good intentions become real influence. This week, we delivered the second of two workshops for Edinburgh’s third sector, exploring the advocacy cycle, power mapping and using evidence effectively. Thanks to Augustine United Church for hosting us.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

We stand with Muslim communities across Edinburgh and Scotland following the reported anti-Muslim attacks on 19 June. There is no place for racism, faith-based hatred or violence in our city. We must reject misinformation, challenge prejudice and build stronger communities together.

The Welcoming statement urging Edinburgh to unite against hate and promote community solidarity.

Statement from The Welcoming Association condemning anti-Muslim attacks in Edinburgh on June 19, expressing solidarity with victims and communities.

Statement emphasizing rejection of misinformation and promoting unity among diverse communities in Edinburgh.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 18/06/2026

A powerful evening of stories and connection at Community Connections for #RefugeeWeek. Huge thanks to our panellists, poet Yuliia, everyone who attended, Ps & Gs Church, and our brilliant colleagues for bringing it all together. Read our Mythbusters resource: ow.ly/PAwU50ZcfnU

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 17/06/2026

This #RefugeeWeek, we’re launching our Mythbusters campaign. At a time when fear and division are being used to explain complex problems, we need #Courage to challenge harmful myths about refugees, asylum seekers and migration. Download and share: ow.ly/FN2A50ZbOgt

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

This #RefugeeWeek, we’re thinking about #Courage in everyday steps - learning new skills, asking questions and getting involved locally. Recently, 19 people joined our employability workshop with Pianodrome to learn about volunteering in piano upcycling, restoration and events 🎹🧡

Three people closely examine a wooden mechanical model on a table near a window with a city view outside.

Group of people gathered around a table engaging in a hands-on weaving activity in a brightly lit room.

Group of people gathered around a table playing a backgammon game in a bright room with colorful wall art.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

This #RefugeeWeek, we stand #WithRefugees 🧡 At The Welcoming Association, we’re marking this year’s theme of #Courage by bringing people together through Community Connections - creating space for stories, conversation and welcome across Edinburgh.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 11/06/2026

A huge thank you to Conpulsion for raising an incredible £5,000 for The Welcoming through their 2026 charity auction 🧡 Community fundraising helps us support New Scots in Edinburgh with English, employability, advice, friendship and belonging. Donate: ow.ly/VS2w50Z8IxO

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 09/06/2026

Our Scotland for Newcomers Saturday group recently visited Arthur’s Seat with support from our amazing volunteers 🧡 Outings like this help New Scots explore Edinburgh, practise English and feel more connected. We’re recruiting Volunteer Befrienders: ow.ly/OMYW50Z8HPT

Group of diverse people standing on rocky terrain under a partly cloudy sky, some smiling and posing for a photo outdoors.

Group of hikers ascending a grassy hillside trail with stone steps under a cloudy sky.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 05/06/2026

We’re recruiting Volunteer Befrienders in Edinburgh 🧡 Support New Scots through 1:1 chats, local activities and informal English practice. 1-3 hours per week. Full training provided. Apply: www.thewelcoming.org/get-involved-t…

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

This #VolunteersWeek, we’re celebrating STAR | Student Action for Refugees at The University of Edinburgh, nominated for the Inspiring Volunteer Awards Team Award 🧡 Since Sept 2024, STAR students have supported Conversation Café, events and activities - bringing energy, solidarity and welcome.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

For #VolunteersWeek, we’re celebrating our Inspiring Volunteer Awards nominees 🧡 Belle, Carol, Mary and our Scotland for Newcomers volunteer team all show what welcome looks like in action - kindness, language support, friendship, city walks, practical help and community. Thank you!

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

Volunteers are part of the community infrastructure that makes welcome possible 🧡 At The Welcoming: 30 Friendship volunteers 8 reception volunteers 26 ESOL teachers + 3 covers 7 Board members 6 Community Fridge volunteers Thank you for helping build a more connected Edinburgh.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 01/06/2026

This #VolunteersWeek, we're saying thank you to all the volunteers who make The Welcoming possible 🧡 From ESOL teachers and befrienders to reception, Community Fridge and Board volunteers - your time, skills and kindness help build a more connected and welcoming Edinburgh.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 27/05/2026

Our Friendship Group is full of talented people 🌍🧡 Amin is cycling 100 miles for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance, while Said recently impressed everyone with his tailoring skills during a group session. Community grows through sharing skills, passions and experiences.

Two people standing side by side indoors, one wearing a bright orange and pink tunic and the other in a beige Lakers t-shirt and gray shorts.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 25/05/2026

This month, learners in our ESOL classes received certificates for attending 25+ English classes since January 🎓 Free, welcoming English classes help people build confidence, connection and independence as they rebuild their lives in Edinburgh 🧡

Two men standing side by side holding a certificate of achievement in a classroom setting with a whiteboard and TV in the background.

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 21/05/2026

During #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, our community came together through mindfulness, creativity and nature 🌿 From Arthur’s Seat walks to art sessions at the Modern Gallery, these spaces helped build connection, confidence and belonging across Edinburgh 🧡

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 19/05/2026

Our recent Creative Women’s Group explored finger knitting 🧶🧡 A colourful afternoon getting artsy together and spaces like this really help women connect, express themselves and feel part of the community! Next meet-up: 21 May www.thewelcoming.org/calendar/event…

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The Welcoming Edinburgh @welcomingedinburgh.bsky.social · 14/05/2026

We visited The Edinburgh Remakery to see the finished mural representing Leith 🎨 Created with different community groups using graffiti and collage techniques, each artwork was inspired by Leith. If you’re around Kirkgate Shopping Centre, have a look outside the Remakery 🧡

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