firsthand services

The following services are available in Edinburgh:

The Sitter Service offers a regular sit so that parents who have no other reliable sitter can count on a break. This reduces stress in the family and can help both parents and children develop confidence, skills and self esteem. You are eligible if you are:
  • a lone parent
  • a lone parent caring for a disabled child or young person
  • parents of a disabled child or young person.
sitter with child making handprints
The Befriending Service is for young disabled adults (15–24 years) who would like a volunteer with whom they can go out and do the things they want to do. The aim is to support young people as they become independent members of their community.

a young person goes bowling with volunteer befriender
Saturday Club is a new project for children (7–16 years) who live in a lone parent family or a family affected by disability. It includes Saturday groups where group workers lead children in a wide range of activities. Children can look forward to activities together with friends who share their particular experience. volunteer helping children with cooking
firsthand direct is currently under development. sitter and child
Volunteering: firsthand always needs volunteer Sitters and Befrienders; and there are other ways to get involved too. volunteer with children at the zoo