Just weeks after starting as a driver with PEP, Charlie (yes it is the same guy in the picture below) decided he would brighten up the proceedings at the big PEP party by donning the most stunning tie seen this side of Morningside. In an era that is famed for its conservative dress sense (compared to the sixties that is.) it was if nothing else - natty!! Charlie you are amazing and we all agree that you fit the bill of drivers requirements as a fun loving guy. Perhaps, given the right encouragenent from his passengers, he might just include this inanimate appendage to his drivers outfit for future runs to the ladies clubs or special outings. What do you think?

Charlie Forsyth, previously a fork lift driver, was referred to PEP
by Working Links. He identified driving as an interest he would like to pursue with us (being an experienced driver) and was put through the MIDAS Test by Roy Douglas, our Qualified Assessor and full-time Volunteer Manager. That was on the Friday. By Monday Charlie had his first run on our accessible buses saying "I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would recommend and encourage anyone to volunteer rather than sit about the house. We appreciate and value the contribution people like Charlie make to improving conditions for the people in our local community, and who else better to do it with than ----- PEP!!

My name is Richard Carr and on the 8th October 2008, I attended an interview with PEP through my administration course with Edinburgh City Council,

As soon as I walked through the doors of PEP I could feel the warmth of the Centre and knew straight away this was where I wanted to spend the 12 week placement programme. I have been here 4 weeks so far, and met many great people, both management, staff and the people who use the services PEP provides.
I have spent a lot of time helping with small projects in administration, working in the social clubs and with the painting and decorating team. These along with escorting on the buses, working with the home helps, and many other experiences have made up a very varied month.
PEP is a GREAT place to Volunteer or gain experience if you are studying or thinking of going into the social care industry.

Dianne Hits the High Spots

Dianne, a mature student studying community Education at Edinburgh University, took on the role as advisor to the people of Edinburgh who would like to give their spare time volunteering within the community. " I feel privileged to have been part of the volunteer exhibition, says Dianne. I particularly enjoyed meeting and chatting with both potential volunteers and individuals from other organisations about the diversity of work we do at PEP. There was a great buzz about the place especially around our 'Pitch' as Roy, Jim and myself eagerly promoted the many benefits of volunteering with PEP".

We would just like to add our thanks to Dianne for her endeavours and great spirit in presenting PEP to the public.

George is flushed with embarrassment.

George made his way as usual on Monday morning to his volunteering task in Home Care. WHen he got there the Lady of the house (who is absolutely delighted with Georges weekly cleaning) said "Could you clean out the toilet for me this morning" George sprung into action, but on entering the toilet found what he described later as the oddest 'Loo Brush' he had ever seen. Never one to be daunted George pulled out the brush from the holder to make sure it was clean. To his astonishment the brush had ROOTS on the bottom of it!! Yes George had pulled up the clients favourite POT PLANT !! After the initial panic George replaced it and got on with the rest of the job. I'm almost scared to ask for comments on this, but good on you George for sharing this with us.

Andrew's Success Story

Andrew Crighton who has worked as a volunteer with our project for the last year has secured himself a job on the staff of the Capital Hotel in Clermiston. Andrew ( a fervent Hibs fan) worked with the painting and decorating /gardening team and is well known as a 'Grafter' who was always first to turn up in the morning. Andrews reflections on his year with PEP: " I think PEP is a good place to work in. It's nice to work with people at PEP and the group I was involved with. It will be great to work with new people but I will miss this place and be sorry to go. This will be Andrew's first full-time job. Please leave a goodwill mesage for Andrew through the comments facility.

We'll miss you Andrew, but we are always pleased to see the volunteers further themselves, and were still here to give you support and encouragement if you feel you need it. Good Luck.

Scottish Gas "Working in the Community"

Just like to offer a great big thanks to Dawn Fowler and Deborah Hitchings for their month long association with our Project. The girls worked alongside Francis Durie and the volunteers in the Social Clubs that PEP provide for Social Inclusion within our designated areas. BOTH WORKED REALLY HARD AND, AS YOU CAN SEE ON THE WEBSITE, enjoyed themselves tremendously. Thanks to all the volunteers and users for making it a pleasant experience all round. More volunteers from Scottish Gas have already started to make an impact on PEP users, and we welcome future help with open arms. do you think you would like to get involved?
phone our number if you have a few hours to spare. The choice of tasks is truly amazing, and the training and support is second to none. PEP 0131-315-4466