Projects from Year 2: Asylum & Refugee Care
When Jayne Smith, one of the founders of Asylum and Refugee Care (AARC) in Aberdeen, first heard about the Scottish Government’s Just Transition Participatory Budgeting (PB)Fund, she wasn’t sure her then newly formed organisation stood a chance. “I saw the advertisement in 2022, and we had only just been established,” Jayne recalls with a smile. “I thought, no, there’s no way - we can't apply. But then last year, I thought, why not?”
Jayne’s decision to apply for funding turned out to be a game-changer for AARC, a charity dedicated to supporting New Scots - those seeking asylum and refuge in the UK - by providing essential services such as clothing, digital access, and integration support. Thanks to a successful bid to the JTPB Fund in 2023, AARC was able to purchase an electric minibus, a vital resource that has transformed how the organisation operates.
The Power of a Minibus: More Than Just a Vehicle
The funding allowed AARC to acquire an electric minibus that now facilitates the organisation’s activities. “Before the minibus, I had to use my car to pick up donations or take people to volunteer opportunities,” Jayne explains. “It was time-consuming and less efficient. Now, with the minibus, I can take up to eight people at a time. It’s not only easier but also better for the environment.”
The minibus has enabled AARC to expand its volunteering program significantly, creating opportunities for New Scots to engage in community work across Aberdeen. Jayne is particularly proud of a six-week program run in partnership with FRESH Community Wellness in Seaton. “We started with the capacity for eight people because that’s the number of seats in the van. But some weeks, we had as many as 15 people showing up!” she says. “The feedback from FRESH was fantastic—they managed to complete over a year’s worth of projects in just six weeks because of our volunteers.”
The ability to transport volunteers and equipment has not only increased the number of community projects AARC can support but has also improved the well-being of those involved. “One of our volunteers was on medication for depression before joining the program,” Jayne shares. “After the first week, he told me he felt better, like he had a purpose. He’s now off his medication. That’s the kind of impact we’re having.”
Breaking Down Barriers with Community Support
Jayne emphasises that the success of AARC’s bid was due in large part to the overwhelming support from the local community. “We had great backing from the mosques, churches, Robert Gordon University and the wider public” she notes. “When we found out we’d been awarded the funding, it was a surprise because we’re such a small organisation, but it shows the community believes in us and in the work we do.”
This belief is reflected in the positive responses AARC volunteers receive from Aberdeen residents. “People often come up to our volunteers to thank them for their hard work,” Jayne says. “It’s heartwarming to see how much their contributions are appreciated. Our volunteers want to work—they’re not permitted to due to their immigration status, but they’re eager to help. The minibus has given them that opportunity.”
Encouraging Others to Apply
With the third year of the Just Transition Fund now open for applications, Jayne is keen to encourage other organisations to consider applying. “Absolutely, do it,” she urges. “It doesn’t matter how small or new your organisation is. It’s about the impact you want to make. Think carefully about what you need, what will help you develop, make an impact and what aligns with your goals, and get your application in.”
The Just Transition PB Fund is a Scottish Government initiative managed locally by ACVO TSI, Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action, and tsiMoray in partnership with NESCAN Hub and Money For Moray. It aims to support eco-friendly projects across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Moray. With £1 million available this year, split equally among the three regions, there is a significant opportunity for community groups and charities to secure funding for projects that make a difference.
Looking Ahead: Building a Greener Future
Jayne is optimistic about the future and the potential for other organisations to follow in AARC’s footsteps. “The minibus has allowed us to do so much more,” she says. “We’ve got plans to continue expanding our volunteering programs and to help even more people. Thanks to the Just Transition Fund, we’re not just helping new Scots integrate; we’re also making Aberdeen a greener, more sustainable place to live.”
For those considering applying for the next round of funding, Jayne has one final piece of advice: “You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain. Look at what we’ve achieved with our funding. Imagine what you could do with yours.”
The Just Transition PB Fund is open for applications until September 23, 2024. To find out more, visit jtpbfund.scot/apply and start your journey toward making a positive impact in your community today.
