What is southside Buddies:
Southside Buddies is our hyperlocal befriending service which aims to support people to be less isolated and feel less lonely. All of our befriending sessions take place face to face in our community centre on a weekly basis, with each session being up to ninety minutes. This is a free service.
We offer individual befriending, which is where our befriender meets with only one person at any one time.
We also offer very small group befriending which is where our befriender will meet with two or three people at once.
Although our befriending is a short term service, available for up to twelve weeks, we will introduce you to other activities and groups which take place within our centre which may be of interest beyond our befriending service.
More information can be found on our befriending pages by clicking here.
How and when to access this service:
Members can visit the pantry every Friday between 9:45 and 11:45, the pantry is within our café. Each shop costs three pounds. Bring your own bags if you can, but don't worry - we usually have a few spare!
Who can access this service:
Any person who is facing food insecurity, regardless of their circumstances.
How do I become a member:
From time to time we take on new pantry members. If you wish to join, which costs two pounds, please speak with a member of centre staff or email hello@southsidecommunitycentre.co.uk.
Could you be a volunteer befriender?
This service is funded by Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Funding provided by the Scottish Government via Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council.