Volunteer: Euan ReidAge: 19Placement: Edinburgh Cyrenians, Good Food Programme
When Euan joined ProjectScotland he explained that he would like to take part in a placement where he could help and support other people.
ProjectScotland matched Euan with Cyrenians Good Food programme which collects food from supermarkets and redistributes it to shelters and hostels for homeless people. Many of the volunteers at the Good Food programme are people who have experienced homelessness in their own lives.
During his placement Euan gained a knowledge of health and nutrition which he has been able to pass on to others on the programme.
Euan took on responsibility for additional projects of his own while on placement. He created a database of local counselling services which will be useful for Cyrenians supported volunteers. Euan was tasked with creating an internal newsletter to give information and build camaraderie. He also organised a “Knock Out” team for a local event.
By drawing together volunteers from different backgrounds the Good Food programme creates an inclusive environment. Euan had never had any real experience of interacting with people from the homeless community before. In the beginning it was quite daunting because many of the volunteers at the programme are disadvantaged due to a whole range of issues. However, he settled in really quickly: “I was amazed by the way such a diverse group of people could work as such a good team. With such a large group there’s a lot of laughter which made the placement a lot of fun.”
ProjectScotland has made a big difference to Euan’s life. He had left school at 16 after completing his Standard Grades. After that he worked in retail for a year before returning to college but felt that was not for him at the time. His placement at the Good Food programme has helped Euan to find some direction and focus in life. Euan is now interested in pursuing a career in nursing and the caring professions as a result of his ProjectScotland experience.