All the latest news, updates and opportunities from Aberdeen’s third sector!
Read the magazine now at acvo.org.uk/acvo-news/september-2025
We are delighted to launch the September 2025 edition of ACVO News, our monthly magazine showcasing the work, achievements and opportunities across Aberdeen’s third sector.
This month we lead with a story focusing on the first year of Cash First Aberdeen – a project that has offered dignified, direct financial support to people facing crisis across the city. In this edition, we reflect on the Cash First Year 1 event, which brought together partners, councillors and community members to hear powerful stories of impact and explore how this approach is helping to reduce reliance on food banks and put choice back into people’s hands.
This also coincided with the launch of our Stories from Cash First project, a powerful collection of personal accounts showcasing the impact of the Cash First Flexible Crisis Fund. You can find out more on page 28 or view the project at cashfirstaberdeen.scot
Alongside Cash First, this month’s issue highlights a significant moment for funding in Aberdeen. By the end of September, three of the funds we manage will be open for applications: the Communities Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund for Adults (Year 5), the Community & Coast Fund, and the Just Transition Participatory Budgeting Fund. Together, these represent more than £980,000 of investment available to community groups and organisations in the city.
Since 2021, we have been proud to distribute over £3.4 million in funding to Aberdeen’s third sector. The impact is clear – supporting hundreds of projects that strengthen communities and improve wellbeing. In this edition, we share one such example from Brimmond Court Residents Association, who used a small grant to transform a communal kitchen into a hub for connection, showing how modest awards can create lasting change.
Other highlights from September’s ACVO News include:
- Coverage of Aberdeen’s first CEO Sleepout, which raised over £72,000 to tackle homelessness and poverty.
- A preview of the Aberdeen Science Festival, returning with a vibrant programme of events across the city.
- A celebration of the volunteers whose energy and commitment made the Tall Ships Races 2025 such a success.
