The Welcoming Association

The Welcoming Association supports the integration of migrants, asylum seekers and refugees into their local communities in Edinburgh. Our focus is on helping the most vulnerable newcomers achieve their full social and economic potential, and build a positive new life in Scotland. We accomplish this by providing a wide range of person-centred activities such as: • English language classes • Scotland for Newcomers • Conversation Café • Employment and Business Guidance • Women's Conversation Space • Befriending • Home energy advice • Community engagement • Health and well-being • Community Fridge • Volunteering • Workshops, talks and visits with community organisations and local service providers. • Community Garden • Getting Ready for Work and Opportunities (GROW) Employability course for New Scots parents • Gardening at the Edinburgh Botanics All our activities are available on an immediate start, free of charge basis to make them as accessible as possible to those in most need. We aim to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment and actively encourage people of all backgrounds, nationalities, ethnicities, faiths and beliefs to join us. We also provide a range of supported volunteering opportunities for local people keen to welcome and support newcomers to Scotland. The Welcoming Association, also known as ‘The Welcoming’ is a company limited by guarantee, with the liability of members limited to £1 each. The company is governed by the terms of its Articles of Association and is a registered Scottish Charity. Members of the Welcoming Board are elected from the membership of The Welcoming at the Annual General Meeting or appointed at any time by the Board. No office bearer i.e. chair, vice-chair and Treasurer, should service more than six consecutive years