Clearing the Path to Opportunity
Edge Group Scotland and Newhailes' Flourishing Collaboration
Edge Group Scotland is delighted to announce an exciting new partnership with the stunning Newhailes House & Gardens (National Trust for Scotland). This collaboration will provide invaluable opportunities for the autistic young adults and those with additional support needs (ASN) in our programmes to develop crucial employability skills while contributing to the upkeep of this beloved historical site.
Our Commitment to Empowering Young Adults
At Edge Group Scotland, we are dedicated to empowering young adults to build independence and achieve their full potential. Our Life Programme and Transitions Programme offer structured activities designed to foster personal growth and prepare our participants for successful transitions to adulthood. We believe that our participants are enthusiastic and capable individuals who, with the right support, are eager to contribute meaningfully to their community. As always, our experienced support workers will be present during all volunteering sessions at Newhailes to provide guidance, support and ensure everyone's well-being.
Gaining Employability Skills at Newhailes
Newhailes House & Gardens offers an inspiring environment for our participants to gain practical work experience that directly enhances their employability. The initial focus of the partnership will be on the "Ha-Ha" area, where our participants will be involved in clearing shrubs and invasive species. This hands-on experience will allow them to develop essential groundworks and gardening skills, including physical stamina and attention to detail.
The “Ha-Ha” area at Newhailes House & Gardens which will be cleared by Edge Group Scotland’s Life Programme group.
By participating in this volunteering initiative, our participants will develop a wide range of transferable employability skills, including:
Teamwork: Working alongside others to achieve a shared goal.
Time management: Adhering to schedules and completing tasks efficiently.
Communication: Interacting with Newhailes staff and the public.
Problem-solving: Finding effective solutions to challenges that arise during tasks.
Responsibility: Taking ownership of their assigned duties.
Initiative: Demonstrating a proactive approach to work.
These skills are highly valued by employers across all sectors and will significantly boost our participants' confidence and readiness for future employment. Furthermore, the experience of contributing to the preservation of a site of historical and cultural significance can foster a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Building Community and Belonging
Beyond the development of key employability skills, this partnership also offers important community benefits. Newhailes is a vital hub for the local community, with many people visiting to enjoy the cafe, walk their dogs, or simply enjoy the beautiful grounds. By participating in this volunteering initiative, our participants will:
Develop a stronger sense of belonging: Becoming actively involved in the upkeep of a space valued by the community.
Enhance social interaction: Interacting with Newhailes staff and members of the public, improving communication and confidence.
Build connections: Fostering positive relationships within their local area.
Increase community awareness: Raising awareness and understanding of autism and additional support needs within the wider community.
A Mutually Beneficial Partnership
Newhailes House & Gardens will also benefit immensely from this partnership. Our participants will provide valuable assistance with essential estate maintenance, helping to ensure that the grounds remain beautiful and accessible for visitors. This collaboration also has the potential to cultivate a long-term relationship, with some of our participants developing the skills and confidence to continue volunteering independently or even pursue paid employment opportunities at Newhailes in the future.
Conclusion
This partnership represents a powerful example of how collaboration between organisations can create mutually beneficial outcomes, fostering inclusion, providing opportunities for personal and professional growth, and strengthening community bonds.
Want to discover more about the historical Newhailes House & Gardens? Visit their website for details on house tours, regular events, markets, and more! More information here: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/newhailes
Would you like to learn more about our programmes for young adults with additional support needs? Visit our Day Services page for information on our supported programmes and how to refer a young person to our services.