# The Living Well Project

> Supporting isolated and vulnerable people in the community of North Aberdeen


## Posts

- [Café Closed for Election](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2026/03/30/cafe-closed-for-election/): Please note that our Devana cafe will be closed on Thursday 7th May, the day of the Scottish elections, as our venue is being used as a polling station
- [Aberdeen Kilt Kickers](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2026/03/30/aberdeen-kilt-kickers/): We were invited along to Aberdeen Kilt Kickers square dance group in March to accept a cheque on behalf of the Living Well Project. The money was raised by the club throughout the year from various activities including a bonus ball; selling tablet/toffee; plants; marmalade and much more. We got to try square dancing ourselves and watch the experts in action as well as getting a fine cuppa and some very tasty homebakes including a cake specially made for the evening. We’re hugely grateful to the Kilt Kickers for this fantastic donation which will be put to good use supporting […]
- [Ramsay & Chalmers Support The Living Well Project](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2026/02/25/ramsay-chalmers-support-the-living-well-project/): We are so appreciative of the many individuals and local companies who support us financially to allow the work of The Living Well Project to continue. Recently we received a donation from Ramsay & Chalmers who had selected us as their nominated charity for 2025. Their administrator Aileen visited one of our cafes to see the work of the project in action.
- [Aberdeen Hillside Café relaunched in January 2026.](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2026/02/25/aberdeen-hillside-cafe-relaunched-in-january-2026/): Come along there or any of our cafes for a fun afternoon of singing, dancing, reminiscing, chat and of course a fly cup & a fine piece. We have a wide range of entertainers booked for our venues over the coming months. On 19 th February we had a lovely afternoon at Aberdeen Hillside with the Aberdeen Strathspey and Reel Society
- [New Café Launch at Aberdeen Hillside Church](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2026/01/06/new-cafe-launch-at-aberdeen-hillside-church/): This session we are delighted to say that we have a 4th café opening. From Thursday 22nd January we will meet fortnightly in Aberdeen Hillside Church, Hilton Drive. The café will follow the same format as our others with time to chat, some reminiscing, entertainment – including a chance to dance or sing along—boccia, and of course a cuppa & fine piece. Come along and join us here or at any of our cafes; a warm welcome awaits.
- [Happy New Year 2026](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2026/01/05/happy-new-year/): We hope everyone had a lovely time over the Christmas break. Prior to the holidays all at the Living Well Cafés had a great time with our Christmas Parties. We all donned our Christmas jumpers and enjoyed lots singing, dancing, good food, party games, visits from Santa and even a snowball fight! Our Cafes were due to start back 6th January but due to the adverse weather conditions we have postponed the re-opening and will be back from Tuesday 13th January when we will be joined in Brimmond by the Aberdeen Strathspey & Reel Society.
- [Celebrate Aberdeen Parade 2025](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2025/09/16/celebrate-aberdeen-parade-2025/): This year we once again took part in the annual Celebrate Aberdeen Parade on Saturday 23 August, recognising the time and effort all of our volunteers put in to help others and make the Living Well Cafes a success. We were joined by a good number of volunteers from all the cafes, and enjoyed a fly cup and piece afterwards.  It is lovely to see that there are so many different 3rd sector organisations active throughout the city and to have this acknowledged by those supporting everyone along the route. Without volunteers none of these organisations would be able to operate […]
- [Welcome New staff!](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2025/08/06/welcome-new-staff/): With the retirement of Jeanette & Linda looming, the project has recruited two new members of staff to take over the running of the cafés. Karen Sommerville has taken on the role of Team Leader, with Brenna Collie serving as Co-ordinator. Hi, I’m Karen!I live in the Bridge of Don area with my three (not-so-young!) children and currently serve as the administrator at Oldmachar Church. In the past, I’ve been involved in running Kids&Co., Little Jammers, and the Friday Café. I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone in the cafés — though I know we have some big shoes to […]
- [Student Disbursement Ceremony](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2025/07/23/student-disbursement-ceremony/): We were thrilled to be chosen as one of the charities to be supported by the Aberdeen Student Charities Campaign. The disbursement ceremony took place in July at Aberdeen Town House. Unfortunately, neither Jeanette nor Linda could manage to attend so they asked two lovely ladies who care for their loved one at home if they could attend in their place. It was a lovely afternoon treat for the two ladies who both thoroughly enjoyed their afternoon were delighted to represented the Living Well Cafés
- [Aberdeen Students’ Show – April 2025](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2025/04/04/aberdeen-students-show-april-2025/): We are thrilled to be selected as one of the charities benefitting from the Aberdeen Student Show this year. The full-of-fun, Doric-filled, satirical musical is a highlight of the year for students and theatre goers alike. The show has been an annual event since 1921 when, for the first time, the show was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [CNR International](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2025/02/25/cnr-international/): The Aberdeen branch contacted us in February 2025 to advise us that we have been selected to be one of their nominated charities for 2025. They organise various fundraising events throughout the year and are happy to volunteer in other ways to offer their support. We look forward to working with them through the year and are extremely appreciative of their commitment to The Living Well Project.
- [Annual General Meeting 2025 - Join Us In-Person or Online](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2025/01/14/annual-general-meeting-2025-join-us-in-person-or-online/): Our Annual General Meeting takes place in person at Brimmond Church on Monday, 27 January, at 7 pm. There will be an opportunity to join via Zoom for those who cannot manage on the night. Link for the Zoom meeting to follow. 
- [Together This Winter: A Guide to Tackling Elderly Loneliness](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2024/12/14/together-this-winter-a-guide-to-tackling-elderly-loneliness/): As the winter months approach, many elderly individuals face challenges that can lead to feelings of isolation. Cold weather and shorter days make it harder to stay connected with friends and family. Loneliness can take a toll on physical and mental health. But there are many ways to stay connected and combat these feelings. Here are some simple steps to make this winter joyful and connected. The Impact of Loneliness on Elderly People Loneliness is not simply a state of solitude, it can affect someone’s health. It has been observed that isolation can be a contributing factor to depression and […]
- [CELEBRATING THE RELAUNCH OF FAIRVIEW CARE HOME'S DEMENTIA CAFE](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2024/09/29/celebrating-the-relaunch-of-fairview-care-homes-dementia-cafe-a-community-initiative/): We were delighted to be invited to cut the ribbon at the relaunch of Fairview Care Home’s dementia café in September 2024. We wish them well in their initiative and hope the local community makes full use of this facility.
- [CELEBRATE ABERDEEN 2024](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2024/09/12/the-annual-celebrate-aberdeen-parade-2024/): We are so grateful for all our volunteers and we took part in the annual Celebrate Aberdeen Parade to do just that – celebrate their time given to help others.  The parade was on Saturday 31 August and the sun shone for the duration. We were joined by a good number of volunteers from all the cafes, and they were treated to a fly cup afterwards.  It was a very happy day with lots of smiles and support from the pavements, acknowledging the vital support of volunteers from all different organisations.  If you are interested in volunteering, there are lots of opportunities […]
- [CAFÉS REOPEN ON 1 AUGUST 2024](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2024/07/07/cafes-reopen-on-1-august-2024/): We have a break from our cafés during July so that we can plan ahead for the next few months and also to give our dedicated volunteers a break.  We will reopen on 1 August at Devana, 6 August at Brimmond and 13 August at Oldmachar and fortnightly thereafter.
- [ABERDEEN STUDENTS CHARITIES](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2024/06/28/aberdeen-students-charities/): We were delighted to be one of the chosen charities to benefit from Aberdeen Students Charities Campaign. We attended the disbursement ceremony at the Town House where we enjoyed a buffet lunch. It was good to meet with other beneficiaries and hear about their charities, each one very worthy.
- [KILTWALK - JUNE 2024](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2024/06/07/kiltwalk-june-2024/): We’re indebted to four ladies who supported us by undertaking the Kiltwalk in June 2024. The walk was from Duthie Park to Banchory and thankfully the sun shone throughout. One of the ladies sustained an injury to her ankle while out practising for the walk and was unable to participate on the day, however a friend stepped in at the last minute to take her place. Thank you so very much to all the ladies for their support.
- [DEMENTIA AWARENESS WEEK](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2024/05/07/dementia-awareness-week/): We were invited to attend Rosewell House to raise awareness of opportunities available for people living with dementia in local communities. We reminisced about places in Aberdeen from many years ago and we had a wee sing song with familiar Scottish songs.
- [YOUTH & PHILANTHROPY INITIATIVE](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2024/04/07/youth-philanthropy-initiative/): A group of youngsters at Westhill Academy chose The Living Well Project to research as part of the YPI initiative. Through YPI students are given a hands-on experience of philanthropy that provides them with the skills and awareness to make positive differences in their communities. Having reached the final, the group was reduced to two. They presented the information in a mature and innovative way, so much so that they scooped the top award for The Living Well Project. Well done, lads!
- [Annual General Meeting](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2024/01/23/annual-general-meeting/): The Annual General Meeting of The Living Well Project is being held in Brimmond Church at 7 pm.  All are welcome to hear an overview of the last year and the plans going forward
- [Dementia Awareness Week – May/June 2023](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2023/06/23/dementia-awareness-week-may-june-2023/): Dementia Awareness Week and Volunteers’ Week is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness to the public, not only of the illness but also of the hard work that volunteers do. We had a stand at ASDA Dyce and spoke to shoppers to let them know about how The Living Well Project supports people living with dementia
- [Café Celebrations](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2023/05/23/cafe-celebrations/): We like to acknowledge seasonal and national celebrations.  Particular highlights were the celebrations surrounding last year’s Platinum Jubilee and the Coronation in May 2023.  Who doesn’t like a party?!
- [The Big Sing](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2023/03/23/the-big-sing/): We were invited to address the Church of Scotland’s Guild ‘Big Sing’ in March 2023.  There were over 300 attendees which set our knees knocking!  Despite some technical issues we managed to deliver our presentation with no further hiccups, giving an overview of The Living Well Project.
- [Celebrate Aberdeen](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2023/02/23/celebrate-aberdeen/): We are proud of our volunteers who are committed to helping out at the Living Well Cafés and the Befriending side of the Project.  We take part in the annual Celebrate Aberdeen parade down Union Street which showcases the third-sector organisations in Aberdeen and the volunteers who play such an integral part in their success. The parade in 2023 takes place on Saturday 26 August – join us if you can.
- [Aberdeen Students’ Charities Campaign](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2023/01/23/aberdeen-students-charities-campaign/): We have been fortunate in receiving support from the Aberdeen Students who perform annually at HM Theatre.  They distribute the proceeds from the show and lots of local charities benefit.
- [Co-op Membership Card](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2023/01/19/co-op-memebership-card/): The Member Pioneer for Bucksburn/Stoneywood is supportive of our work in the community, and we have been successful in being selected as part of the Local Community Fund. Please consider signing up for their Co-op Membership Card, as any Co-op brand purchase you make will benefit The Living Well Project.
- [ACVO](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2023/01/19/acvo-membership/): We are a member of ACVO (Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations), which is the Third Sector Interface for Aberdeen City. They actively facilitate, support, and promote volunteering and enable charitable organisations like ourselves to develop through governance and funding support. It was through ACVO that we successfully applied for funding from the Scottish Government Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund.
- [ASDA Community Support](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2023/01/19/asda-community-support/): We are so grateful to have the support of ASDA’s community champions in all of our cafés. They keep us abreast of funding opportunities offered by ASDA and seldom come along to the cafés empty-handed!
- [Christmas Parties 2022](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2022/12/14/christmas-parties-2022/): We had a happy time at our Christmas parties in Brimmond and Ferryhill on December 8 and 13, 2022, and Don Carnie (also known as Dr Doric) provided musical entertainment. There must have been an awful lot of well-behaved people as, despite the snowy conditions, Santa managed to find his way to join us and hand out gifts. We had party games, had a sing-along, danced till we dropped, and had lots of goodies to eat— all polished off with ice cream and jelly. A party’s not a party without some ice cream and jelly!
- [Sport Challenge 2022](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/2022/09/16/spot-challenge-2022/): Sportschallenge, the ultimate sports-themed corporate fundraiser, made a welcome return to Aberdeen after the pandemic, and we were successful in our bid to be one of their chosen local charities. Held at TECA in September, it was a black-tie fundraising evening of glamour and brains as teams competed to lift the trophy after five rounds of sports trivia, hosted by Alan McInally and Jim White. We were delighted to welcome two of the charity’s trustees to our Christmas party at Brimmond.

## Pages

- [News](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/news/): Featured Posts Dementia Awareness Week – May/June 2023 Dementia Awareness Week and Volunteers’ Week is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness to the public, not only of the illness but also of the hard work that volunteers do. We had a stand at ASDA Dyce… Café Celebrations We like to acknowledge seasonal and national celebrations.  Particular highlights were the celebrations surrounding last year’s Platinum Jubilee and the Coronation in May 2023.  Who doesn’t like a party?! The Big Sing We were invited to address the Church of Scotland’s Guild ‘Big Sing’ in March 2023.  There were over 300 attendees which […]
- [Gallery](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/gallery/): Gallery We have gathered many beautiful moments during our journey get involved We believe that our services have the potential to have a positive impact on vulnerable people in our local communities. If you would like to know more… Click HERE
- [Contact](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/contact/): contact us Contact us Feel free to contact us! Office address: The Living Well Project, Brimmond Church, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, AB21 9SS Call Us: Befriending: Avril 07475 940726 Cafe: Karen 07512 141818 or Brenna 07927 541029 email addresses: info@thelivingwellproject.org.uk cafe@thelivingwellproject.org.uk befriending@thelivingwellproject.org.uk Follow Us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/tlwpbefriending https://www.facebook.com/livingwellcafe Frequently Asked Questions! All the venues are in churches. Does this mean I have to be a church goer to go to the café? No, not at all – we are open to everyone of any faith or no faith How much does it cost? There is no set charge, but we welcome a […]
- [Befriending](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/befriending/): Befriending Service Befriending beats loneliness Befriending is a supported friendship between two people: a trained volunteer and a friend (befriendee). Befriending is offered to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness, resulting from a lack of opportunity to meet people for social contact, make friends and have someone to talk to. Isolation and loneliness can affect anyone for many different reasons – family living at a distance, experience of bereavements, or frail health restricting lifestyle and activities. Befriending provides safe, reliable, one-to-one friendly social contact which brings companionship, interest and fun and adds social normality to a person’s life.   Who […]
- [Our Cafés](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/our-cafes/): Our Cafés Alone we can do so little, together we can achieve so much. The Living Well Cafés provide a welcoming, safe and supportive place for people living with dementia and/or memory problems and their caregivers.  At the cafés we offer information and signposting to organisations which may be able to provide a service, information or help in other practical ways. Each week we have a range of optional activities such as reminiscing, puzzles, Boccia, and dancing, and we usually have a sing-along to finish. We sometimes have entertainment or an organisation giving a presentation to provide helpful information. At […]
- [About us](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/about-us/): About us Support We endeavour to support those vulnerable people who can be forgotten about and who, through no fault of their own, find themselves detached from their local communities. We provide opportunities for: Social Support Physical Wellbeing Emotional Support 14 years of Supportive Service Our Mission Statement Our mission is to improve the physical, emotional and social wellbeing for the lonely and isolated and also for those living with dementia, and their carers, within our local communities. Befriending beats loneliness improve mental health friendship Enhance Self Confidence The Living Well Project was set up in 2010, with the aim […]
- [News1](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/news1/)
- [Home](https://thelivingwellproject.org.uk/): WELCOME TO The Living Well Project The Living Well Project embraces two strands of care within the community: A Befriending Service and Dementia Cafés. Donate fund Read More Befriending The Living Well Project has, since 2010, provided a befriending service to older people in the North of Aberdeen. The Befriending Service has been on hold over recent times but we are now rebuilding this service and will be looking to accept new referrals and recruit new volunteers during 2023. Read More Befriending beats loneliness improve mental health friendship good health Dementia Cafés The Living Well Cafés offer a safe and […]


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