Welcome to the Autumn edition of the Mastrick Matters community magazine!
There’s lots of exciting things going on in Mastrick at the moment. Read on to find out about a fun festive competition and lots of exciting employability opportunities.
If you would like to get involved and join the editorial team, or if you have ideas for the community publication, you can easily get in touch with us.
The staff at shmu are able to support and train anyone living in the area who are interested in developing their ideas and skills in either writing, photography or proof reading.
So please don’t be shy, this is your magazine written, edited and designed by the good folk of Mastrick. If you live in the Mastrick area and would like to come along to the editorial meetings (when it is safe to do so) or submit an article then get in touch with Rose at shmu on 07752586312 or you can email her on rose.ross@ shmu.org.uk.
You can also get in touch with us via our Facebook page - look up ‘Mastrick Matters’ and hit that ‘like’ button, and you can view this magazine alongside previous editions on the shmu website: www.shmu. org.uk then click the ‘PRESS’ option
Mastrick Matters is a community publication and the views expressed are not necessarily those of the editorial team or of shmu.
Happy Reading.
Greenfern Road Park
Latestaddition to Greenfern Road Park continues community’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion
The Mastrick, Sheddocksley & Summerhill Community Council has achieved another significant milestone in their mission to create truly inclusive community spaces, with the installation of a brand new inclusive swing at Greenfern Road Park.
This latest addition follows the recent installation of new inclusive paths at the park, located just outside Mastrick Community Centre, demonstrating the Community Council’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that local green spaces are accessible to everyone, regardless of ability.
Beyond Equipment: Building
Community The new inclusive swing represents far more than just playground equipment –it’s a powerful symbol of the community’s values and dedication to creating spaces where every resident can participate fully in outdoor recreation and play.
“This is about more than equipment,” explains the Community Council. “It’s about ensuring everyone can enjoy our green spaces.” The inclusive
swing is designed to accommodate children and adults with varying mobility needs, allowing families to play together regardless of individual abilities.
A Progressive Approach to Accessibility
The swing installation is part of a broader accessibility initiative at Greenfern Road Park. The recently completed inclusive pathways have already transformed how residents navigate the space, providing smooth, accessible routes throughout the park area.
Together, these improvements create a comprehensive accessible environment where wheelchair users, families with pushchairs, and individuals with mobility challenges can move freely and safely throughout the park.
Community-Driven Success
The success of these projects reflects the strong community spirit that characterizes the Mastrick, Sheddocksley, and Summerhill areas. The Community Council’s ability to secure funding and support for these initiatives demonstrates the power of collective advocacy and shared vision.
“Thank you to all who supported us,” the Council acknowledges.
“Together, we’re building a more inclusive, welcoming park for all.”
Continuing the Mission
This achievement builds on the Community Council’s track record of successful community initiatives, including the popular Boards & Beans Community Cafe and the upcoming Christmas house decoration competition. Each project reinforces their commitment to creating spaces and opportunities that bring the community together.
Looking Forward
The installation of the inclusive swing marks another important step in the ongoing transformation of local green spaces. As the Community Council notes, it’s “one more step towards making sure everyone can enjoy our local green spaces.”
The improvements at Greenfern Road Park serve as a model for inclusive community development, demonstrating that with determination, collaboration, and community support, it’s possible to create spaces that truly welcome everyone.
Greenfern Road Park is located outside Mastrick Community Centre and is now fully accessible with inclusive paths and playground equipment.
EPILEPSY IN THE COMMUNITY
Nowadays we see adverts on T.V for research into Heart Disease or maybe even Cancer, which I admit are probably the two biggest health conditions that have taken countless amounts of lives in the past, as well as being very serious health conditions and life threatening and definitely need as much research as they probably deserve and this is all normally charity based so contributions from anyone and everyone are welcomed.
There are, however, certain medical conditions which are not so recognised in our communities. Whether it’s because some people don’t want to admit to them or even are too embarrassed to admit to them.
Some of these conditions can tend to develop a Taboo effect because of this and can go unrecognised by your average member of the public.
Having epilepsy late in life is not the same as if you were just a child.
What I mean is if you’re just a child it can be put down to something as simple as teething, where the body temperature skyrockets, or even puberty, where the body is going through one hundred and one different changes. At these early ages the body can grow out of the condition.
But the older you get before the condition affects you the more chance you will have it all your life.
I’ve been a butcher since I was 17 and had epilepsy since then
too. My seizures seemed to be confined to nighttime back then, so I was able to live a normal life, not worrying about epilepsy affecting my working day. Then I would have the occasional seizure during the day, however, my workmates knew what to do and how to sit me down and get me on the floor and put me into the recovery position once I’d stop convulsing.
Let’s just say I had accepted epilepsy as being part of my life and my medication was partly keeping it under control; I would have a seizure once a month.
But like everything else all good things come to an end. Here I am 40 years on, still doing the same job and I get told due to insurance reasons I can no longer do my job because I’m a hazard to myself as well as others because I work with sharp knives.
I’m now retraining because I know nothing else and am volunteering, which I must admit I am finding enjoyable.
I’m still taking the seizures, but it just shows how this condition can take over your life. How I’ve gone so long accepting the way my life was to now be letting epilepsy try to beat me.
BUT I WON’T LET IT WIN !!!!!!!!
Some things you may not know about epilepsy
Epilepsy like a lot of medical conditions can be fatal.
Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP):
This is a leading cause of death in people with epilepsy, where a person dies suddenly and unexpectedly for no known reason, often during or after a seizure.
Status Epilepticus:
This occurs when a seizure lasts too long, or multiple seizures happen in a row without recovery in between. Convulsive status epilepticus is the most dangerous form and can be fatal.
Accidents, Injuries, and Drowning:
Seizures that affect awareness can put a person at risk of accidents, injuries, or drowning.
Other Factors:
In some cases, other serious neurological conditions, like severe cerebral palsy, can lead to complications like aspiration (inhaling food or fluids) and pneumonia, which may contribute to a person’s death, according to an Epilepsy Foundation article.
What to do if you see someone having seizure
First ensure their safety by clearing the area and cushioning their head with a jacket or likes, then loosely loosen any tight clothing around their neck. Stay calm, time the seizure, and do not put anything in their mouth or restrain them.
After the seizure, place them in the recovery position and stay with them, offering reassurance until they are fully recovered. Call for an ambulance if the seizure lasts more than five minutes, if the person is injured, or if they are having difficulty breathing.
Family Learning
Family Learning encourages families to learn, play and grow together, with a focus on improving wellbeing and quality of life. Our activities and support are tailored to help parents understand and meet their children’s unique needs. We work in partnership with schools and other agencies to support families in raising their children. During school holidays we run a variety of events which are free for families to attend and hosted across the city.
Over the summer, we’ve been busy with trips to the Art Gallery, the Zoology building, playing golf and hosting a variety of fun family sessions in parks across the city. We played Highland Games with Sport Aberdeen, conducted science experiments with Aberdeen Science Centre, and enjoyed games like cornhole and boccia, along with
plenty of tall ships themed crafts! We were lucky enough to have Brick Club with Emma come along to sessions to run inclusive activities using Lego, which were a real favourite with families. Childsmile also came to some sessions to talk about the importance of clean teeth and oral hygiene with children and parents/carers.
Finally, we ran some cycling sessions at Northfield and Seaton with Sport Aberdeen, which were really successful in supporting children in riding their bikes. And we are already planning for some spooky fun for Halloween, keep an eye on the Aberdeen City Council “in the City” webpage and Eventbrite page for further information and booking. These events are all free and open to families across Aberdeen city.
Our courses and groups run throughout the school terms, both in person and online. You can view and book these on our Eventbrite page. Courses cover topics such as Understanding Emotions, I’m a Parent!, Confidence and Assertiveness Building, Self-care in the Outdoors and Understanding Anxiety, and are designed to support parents on their parenting journey. We have regular parent peer support groups, with an ASN focus, at a variety of locations in the city. We also offer one-to-one support for families who may benefit from more intensive help. For further information please check out our Facebook@ FamilyLearningAberdeen, email at Familylearning@aberdeencity. gov.uk
Unlocking Opportunities: The Benefits of Working with a Pathways Employment Keyworker
Searching for a job can be overwhelming, especially when facing barriers such as lack of experience, low confidence, or gaps in employment. That’s where a Pathways Employment
Keyworker can make a significant difference. Acting as a dedicated guide and support system, a Keyworker helps individuals navigate the job market with confidence and clarity.
Personalised Support
One of the greatest advantages of working with a Pathways Keyworker is the tailored support they offer. Rather than a onesize-fits-all approach, Keyworkers take time to understand each individual’s background, skills, aspirations, and challenges. They work closely to develop a personalised action plan that outlines clear, achievable steps towards employment.
Building Confidence and Motivation
Job searching can be disheartening, especially after rejections or a long break from work. Keyworkers provide consistent encouragement and emotional support, helping individuals build their self-esteem and stay motivated. Through regular check-ins and progress tracking, they ensure their clients remain focused and positive throughout the journey.
Access to Training and Skills Development Pathways Employment
Keyworkers can identify areas where additional training might boost employability. They often have links to courses, workshops, and resources that can help individuals gain new skills, update qualifications, or even pursue a completely new career path. This ongoing development can open doors to better and more sustainable job opportunities.
Expert Job-Matching and Applications Support
With a strong understanding of local job markets and employer needs, Keyworkers can help match individuals to roles that suit their strengths and goals. They assist with crafting effective CVs, writing compelling cover letters, and preparing for interviews — ensuring candidates present themselves in the best possible light.
Continued Support After Employment
The relationship with a Keyworker doesn’t end once a job is secured. Many offer in-work support to help individuals settle into their new roles, handle any early challenges, and ensure long-term success. This follow-up support is crucial in maintaining employment and progressing within the workplace.
Pathways Counselling Service
Everyday life can pose problems that can be hard to cope with. Counselling offers an opportunity to come and talk these through and resolve them where possible, with one of our team of professionally trained counsellors. The service is completely
confidential, and we accept self referrals as well as referrals from other organisations and professionals.
Bridging to Other Support Services
Often, barriers to employment go beyond the job search — such as housing issues, health concerns, or financial difficulties. Keyworkers can refer individuals to relevant support services and community resources, offering an integrated approach that addresses the full picture.
Conclusion
Working with a Pathways Employment Keyworker is more than just getting help with a job search — it’s about having a dedicated ally who believes in your potential, helps you overcome obstacles, and supports you every step of the way. Whether you’re just starting out, returning to work, or looking to change careers, a Keyworker can be the key to unlocking a brighter, more secure future.
In2024 Kenneth was hospitalised for seven weeks following a stroke. Due to his stroke Kenneth was no longer able to drive and became unemployed. Having worked all his life since leaving school in 1979, he was feeling quite lost being unemployed.
Unsure of what to do, what he was entitled to claim or where to find out, Kenneth struggled to find support. “Being unemployed, you’re put down as useless and claiming things you shouldn’t be. You are no use to the community or to anybody, a burden on society, even though you’ve paid in all that time.”
His stroke mainly affected his left side and being left-handed, it left him struggling with a lot of things, especially filling out forms. He said “The form for PIP is about half an inch thick. It’s actually a novel, but luckily, I got occupational health and C-FINE to help me go through it and fill it out.”
Kenneth hadn’t been to the job centre since 1980, it was a shock to see it had totally changed. “The last time I went, you just came in and looked at the cards, but now it’s all on the computer. Not everyone is able to use a computer. It was basically learning how to do everything all over again.
“I almost didn’t go in this time because of the fear, the stigma and everything. But once you get over it, it gets a lot easier as time goes by. The work coach I’ve got now is excellent. He’ll sit and listen. He’ll look at my record and it’s almost first-name terms with them. With me having the stroke, I was under a doctor’s line; unfit to work, and Universal Credit said they don’t worry about doctors’ lines. I’ve
been made fit to work so I’ve got to look for work.
“If I go even a walk to Iceland from my flat and back, I know for a fact I’ll sit down and fall asleep for about two hours, just because I’m that fatigued. How would an employer or a business feel if that was happening every day?”
When Kenneth sought assistance from Pathways, they couldn’t believe he had been deemed fit to work.
“Pathways and C-FINE were great in support and Pathways are still great in what they do. They’ve been excellent in helping me out. Looking for jobs, putting jobs in my universal diary and that. I use C-FINE in a number of ways: support on filling out forms, chasing up PIP and keeping up to date with what’s available. I normally go down about once a week/ once a fortnight for emergency supplies. I’m grateful that I haven’t actually had to go into a food bank yet, but I’ve signed up for the pantry at community centre.
“My life would be easier if there was better support and more information for benefits, make it more clearer. I’d advice anyone to get in touch with your community hub and enquire there or Citizines Advice and even the job centre, or the library, just see what you can get and where you have to go.
Contact cfine on 01224 596 156 or email info@cfine.org or find them at 2-4 Poynernook Road AB11 5RW.
Pathways can be found at 11 Powis Circle, Aberdeen, AB24 3YX, calling them on 01224 682939 or emailing info@ pathways-online.org
New Employability Hub Launches at Mastrick Community Centre
Mastrick Community Centre is opening its doors to a brand-new Employability Hub—a practical, people-first initiative designed to help local residents take the next step in their career journey. From CV writing advice and mock interviews to seminar-style training and one-to-one guidance, the Hub brings together everything you need to job-hunt with confidence under one welcoming roof.
‘Whether you’re returning to work, changing careers, or taking your very first step into employment, we want the Employability Hub to feel like your space,’. ‘It’s about building skills, boosting confidence, and making sure no one has to navigate the job market alone.’
What’s on offer
CV & Application Support:
Friendly coaches will help you craft a clear, tailored CV, write effective cover letters, and complete online applications that stand out.
Interview Skills: Practice realworld interview scenarios—panel, competency-based, and video— then get constructive feedback you can use straight away.
Seminar Training: Short, practical sessions on topics like jobsearch strategy, LinkedIn basics, transferable skills, workplace etiquette, and time management.
Digital Drop-Ins: Guidance on setting up professional email, navigating job boards, and creating an online profile employers will notice.
Pathway Signposting:
Introductions to local training providers, volunteering routes, apprenticeships, and employers with live opportunities.
Confidence & Wellbeing: Support to manage nerves, build resilience, and celebrate small wins along the way.
Who it’s for
The Employability Hub is open to everyone in the community— school leavers and graduates, parents returning to work, career changers, and those looking to rebuild after redundancy. Sessions are designed to be accessible and judgement-free, with flexible options to suit different schedules.
Why it matters
Today’s job market moves fast, and
small, targeted improvements can make a big difference—tightening a CV summary, preparing smart examples for competency questions, or learning how to speak confidently about your strengths. The Employability Hub gives residents practical, local support so they can present their best selves to employers.
At-a-Glance: Employability Hub
CV writing & application support
Mock interviews with feedback
Seminar training and digital drop-ins
One-to-one guidance and signposting
Open to all local residents
Free to attend
Want to know more?
Contact Mastrick Community Centre on 01224 788288, email mastrickcc@hotmail.co.uk, or drop in to speak with the team.
The Employability Hub: practical skills, real support, brighter futures—right here in Mastrick.
Women’s Budget Group
Agroup of Aberdeen women worked with the Scottish Women’s Budget Group to understand the impact of poverty and gender inequality on women and their families in Aberdeen and identifying what changes Aberdeen City Council could make.
Commissioned by Aberdeen City Council’s Anti-Poverty and Inequality Committee the group found that caring responsibilities, social security, work, transport, health, housing and the way services are delivered were significant issues for women in Aberdeen that impacted on the choices and options available to them.
Many of the challenges identified highlight interlinked barriers that women face because the different needs of men and women are not recognised within decision making at a local or national level. The group were clear that these barriers need to be addressed by organisations instead of being left to individual women to try to address them. As the following example highlights Women who experience
domestic abuse often lack the finances to leave an abusive partner or seek support.
They do not have the resources to take expensive buses, or the time to spend over an hour to reach services without exposing themselves to increased risk. They might not have access to a phone or computer to be able to use online/ phone-based services and they cannot take the chance of losing any support systems they have by having to move for housing.
The group presented their findings to the Committee in June, and they are expecting a response to the 116 recommendations made in November. We hope that this work leads to changes which mean that in the future we are not having to have the same conversations.
Read the Full Scottish Women’s Budget Groups report at https:// www.swbg.org.uk/content/ publications/SWBG-AberdeenReport.pdf
Some findings from the report
“Over 50% of those with childcare costs (for all age groups) said they
struggled to manage childcare costs while 34% had to make changes to other areas of household spending to be able to afford their childcare costs.”
“39% of all survey respondents said they felt very safe, this reduced for members of the LGBT community to 18% and was higher for men at 54%.”
“75% of pensioners told us they felt worse off financially than this time last year, with 66% using their savings to manage household costs in the last year.”
“30% of survey respondents said they were struggling to manage food costs. This increased to 69% for single parents, 37% for disabled and single person households and 33% for BME households.”
“21% of respondents had skipped meals in the last year and 61% had cut back on food expenditure.”
“12% had used the foodbank to manage costs, while 5% had joined the community pantry. 24% of those using foodbanks and joining community pantries were employed full time.”
Deck the Halls and win
Community Council Launches Christmas House Decoration Competition
The Mastrick, Sheddocksley & Summerhill Community Council is spreading Christmas cheer throughout the local area with the launch of their inaugural Best Decorated House competition – and they’re keeping things delightfully light-hearted by putting local children in charge of choosing the winners.
This public competition invites residents across all three communities to unleash their creativity and transform their homes into winter wonderlands, knowing that their most important audience will be the neighborhood’s youngest residents.
Through the Eyes of Children
What makes this competition truly special is the decision to have local children serve as the judges. After all, who better to appreciate the magic of Christmas decorations than those who truly value the wonder of the season?
The young judges will be looking at displays through fresh eyes, focusing on what captures their imagination rather than technical perfection or expensive installations. This approach perfectly aligns with the competition’s light-hearted spirit
– it’s not about impressing adults with sophisticated displays, but about creating joy and wonder for the community’s children.
No Pressure, Just Fun
The Community Council emphasizes that this isn’t about creating the most expensive or elaborate display – it’s about community spirit, creativity, and bringing smiles to young faces during the festive season.
“We want everyone to feel they can participate, regardless of budget or decorating experience,” explains the initiative. “Whether you’ve got a single string of lights or you’re planning a full Santa’s grotto in your front garden, we want to see what makes our local children smile this Christmas.”
Kid-Friendly Categories
With children as judges, participants can expect categories that celebrate what truly delights young minds – perhaps “Most Magical Display,” “Best Use of Lights,” or “Most Fun to Look At.”
The focus will be on creativity, color, and that special spark that makes children stop and stare in wonder.
Community Spirit in Action
The competition reflects the Community Council’s ongoing
commitment to bringing residents together and fostering neighborhood pride. Following successful initiatives like the Boards & Beans Community Cafe, this festive contest offers another opportunity for the three communities to connect and celebrate together – while putting children at the heart of the celebration.
Creating Christmas Magic
Beyond the competition itself, organizers hope the initiative will create a magical walking route through the neighborhoods, giving families a reason to explore their local area while children get to play judge and discover the creativity of their neighbors.
As the Community Council puts it: “Christmas is about joy, community, and making memories. Having our local children choose the winners ensures we’re celebrating what truly matters –the magic and wonder that makes Christmas special.”
Keep an eye out for registration details and information about how the young judges will make their selections, coming soon from the Mastrick, Sheddocksley & Summerhill Community Council.
word search
Compiled by Kevin Morrison
August 23 2025: I’ve decided to write today’s entry in the style of a football manager.
I’m going to give today 110%. There will be no hangover from midweek, when I was nice all the time. I will take things one day at a time, which will hopefully make me feel over the moon. Literally.
Last weekend was one of two halves; hopefully this one will be different.
All the words below (they are surnames of UK Prime Ministers) will be found in the puzzle below – except one.
August 25 2025: it’s now beginning to get dark quite early in the evening. It’s depressing, so to combat that I thought I’d make myself a trifle.
The nine words that are there are found horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. In some instances the words are backwards. Can you spot the word that is not there?
I followed the recipe until the end, where it said, “Chill for an hour.”
The words:
BLAIR ● BROWN ● CALLAGHAN ● CAMERON ● HEATH ● JOHNSON ● MAJOR ● MAY ● THATCHER ● WILSON
All the words below will be found in the puzzle below –except one.
The words that are there are found horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. In some instances the words are backwards.
The words are one-word names of cocktails. Can you spot the word that is not there? Please do the word search responsibly.
The words:
● BOOMERANG
● COSMOPOLITAN
● GRASSHOPPER
● GREYHOUND
● HURRICANE
● MANHATTAN
● MARGARITA
● MIMOSA
● MOJITO
● SCREWDRIVER
● SIDECAR.
So I left the bowl on the worktop to watch TV and check my phone for sixty minutes.
Upon returning to the kitchen, nothing had changed. I put the bowl in the fridge, which seemed to make a massive difference.
Morrison’s Melody
Kate Bush - “Wuthering Heights” (1978)
This beautiful and haunting track was Bush’s debut single.
She shares a birthday with the 19th century author of the book with the same title, Emily Brontë - July 30.
She was born in 1958 and was discovered by Dave Gilmour of Pink Floyd.
Elected Officials
Donna Clark
It has been a busy time in the Mastrick area as well as the wider Northfield/ Mastrick North Ward since my last update.
The most common issues that I have been receiving at surgeries as well as day to day enquiries include various housing issues such as downsizing, void properties and their turnover so they can be re-let out to tenants and a lack of four and five bedroom properties, despite there being a large demand for this type of property as well as a lack of sheltered accommodation. I have also been dealing with a few cases of wilful fire raising across the Northfield/ Mastrick North area, if you witness any incidents like this, please contact Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
I am glad to see that the longawaited ramps into the play park at Mastrick Community Centre have finally been installed as well as a new accessible swing which has
been put in which now means that all children are able to make use of the play park.
I understand that there are hopes to get a Men’s Shed up and running within the Mastrick area, however, there has been a bit of difficulty with getting a property for the group to be based in and work in. If you know of any buildings or properties within the Mastrick area which you feel would be suitable, please do let me know.
On 14 August I met with the landlords of Mastrick Shopping Centre again and had a walk around the shopping centre, to discuss their further ideas and plans for the centre. I understand that works are underway to try and bring the last of the empty units back into use with businesses lined up for the majority of the remaining units.
From September 2025, I will be reinstating monthly surgeries
within the Mastrick area on the third Friday of each month at 10am. These will be held at Mastrick Community Centre. I still hold regular surgeries at The Hub @ Manor Avenue on the First Friday of the month and at both Northfield Community Centre and Cummings Park Community Centre on the third Monday of each month. Whilst appointments aren’t required, I would appreciate either a call or an email to advise that you are hoping to come along to meet with me.
I would like to wish all families all the best for the October holidays when they come. I understand that there will be activities running throughout the summer holidays at Mastrick Community Centre.
If I can ever be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me on 07977 399622 or email me at: donclark@aberdeencity. gov.uk
Money Skills for Everyday Life: Free Workshops for Local Communities Empowering Communities with Practical Money Skills
By Ilhem Djafer - Grampian Credit Union
Intoday’s challenging economic climate, financial literacy is more important than ever. Yet, for many individuals and families, understanding how to manage money effectively can feel overwhelming—especially with rising living costs, complex financial products, and limited access to trustworthy advice.
That’s why Grampian Credit Union has launched the Community Financial Empowerment Project, a grassroots initiative aimed at improving financial awareness across Aberdeenshire. At the heart of the project are free, practical workshops designed to equip people with the tools they need to navigate everyday money matters with confidence.
The workshops are led by Chinyere Adeniyi-Alade, Grampian Credit Union’s Chief Executive Officer, who brings both professional expertise and a deep passion for community
empowerment. Delivered in clear, accessible language, the sessions cover essential topics like budgeting, saving, and understanding credit and borrowing, all framed in the context of real-life situations many households face.
What makes these workshops stand out is their inclusive approach. Open to all adults, regardless of income level, employment status, or financial background—they are designed to be welcoming, interactive spaces where participants can ask questions, share experiences, and learn without judgment. Financial jargon is unpacked, and practical tips are provided to help people feel more in control of their financial choices.
“Our goal isn’t just to teach people how to budget or save,” says Chinyere. “It’s about building long-term confidence and resilience so individuals and families feel
empowered to take charge of their financial future.”
Grampian Credit Union delivers these workshops both in person and online, bringing vital knowledge directly to the heart of local communities. It’s a powerful step toward financial inclusion, ensuring that everyone, regardless of circumstances, has access to the information and support they need to thrive.
Community organisers in Aberdeen City who are interested in hosting a session are encouraged to get in touch with Grampian Credit Union to arrange a workshop for their group.
As a member-owned cooperative, Grampian Credit Union is committed to supporting the financial wellbeing of the people it serves, not just as customers, but as valued members of a stronger, more financially resilient community against those that have adapted their bikes beyond the legal requirements.
Meet Katie – Part 1
The Mastrick Matters team wanted to use the shmu page to introduce you to some of the staff and volunteers who are involved with shmu. Recently we spoke to one of our Film Development Workers, Katie Paterson.
Here are some of the things Katie had to say about working at shmu.
Can you tell us a bit about your role at shmu?
I’m a Film Development Worker at shmu, which means I work with communities and groups to make films. So, through making films, it gives people more confidence and they learn filmmaking skills. I work with adults in the community, and I work with my colleague Rose, and we do a multimedia group.
Which mainly works to make news coverage or little packages of things that are going on in the community.
Training Complete!
A huge congratulations to Adele’s latest radio training group who completed their 8-week training course on Monday!
Covering everything from behind-the-scenes tech wizardry, broadcasting guidelines to on-air presentation skills, the group learnt the ropes and are ready to work towards their own individual shows - well done team!
Listen out for them hitting the airwaves soon with shows covering everything from local history, social justice to 90s music
If you are interested in Radio Training here at shmuHQ - please get in touch for more information! volunteer@shmu.org.uk
What’s been your favourite film you’ve worked on at shmu?
I quite like the, the smaller, faster turnaround projects. Like I just did one with the multimedia group for the Mela that is quite a fast turnaround and it’s kind of fun, you know, it’s high energy.
You go to the event, you get interviews and stuff. So those are my favourite kind of projects. Because some of the longer ones, although they can be more impactful and you might get better feedback, it can be a lot. They take a long time to organise and edit. So, the faster turnaround ones I do with the volunteers and the multimedia team, those are more fun.
mastrick Matters
MASTRICK MATTERS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Mastrick Matters are looking for volunteers to join our editorial team! The Mastrick Matters is your community magazine, and for it to be truly representative of the community, we need residents to get involved and help out with the production of the magazine.
The magazine is put together by a local editorial team of volunteers, with the support of shmu’s Community Media Development Worker, Rose. This is the community’s platform to celebrate their successes, share their news, raise awareness to issues affecting them and anything that is important to them.
How does the editorial team work?
We produce three editions of Mastrick Matters per year.
The Editorial team meet three times during the production of each edition to discuss ideas, plan content and plan the page layouts of the magazine.
We currently meet at the Boards and Beans Café in Mastrick Community Centre for editorial meetings. The next magazine we will be producing will be the Autumn edition and meetings will begin in August.
What can I do as part of the editorial team?
There are a variety of things that editorial team members can get involved in. There is no pressure to do everything, just what you are interested in doing. Rose is also available to support volunteers to help them to contribute.
Here’s some of the things you can do:
Join the meetings, share your thoughts and ideas.
Connect with other community members.
Write articles.
Photography – we always need photos for front covers and for content within the magazine. Proofreading/editing.
Attending community events. To make Mastrick Matters as representative of the community as possible we need your help! Please get in touch with Rose by emailing rose.ross@shmu.org. uk or calling 01224 515 013 to enquire and/or arrange a time to chat further. Or if you’d like to chat to our current fantastic volunteers, we can organise a meeting of the team
Aberdeen City Council Helpline - 0800 0304 713
Virtual School Helpline - 01224 523322
ALCOHOL
Alcoholics Anonymous - 0800 9177 650
Drinkline - 0300 123 1110
CRIME
Crimestoppers - 0800 555 111
DRUGS
Alcohol and Drugs Action Helpline 01224 594700 or 07927192706
Narcotics Anonymous 0300 999 1212
DENTIST
Emergency - G-Dens - 111
DOCTORS
NHS 24 Emergency - 111 POLICE
Non-Emergency - 101
ELECTRICITY
If you have a power-cut - 105
GAS
Gas Emergency - 0800 111 999
WATER
Scottish Water Emergency - 0800 0778 778
HOUSING
Emergency Repairs - 03000 200 292
Family Planning - 0345 337 9900
Mental Health Aberdeen - 01224 573892
Breathing Space - 0800 838 587
Samaritans - Need to talk 01224 574 488 or 116 123
SOCIAL WORK
Adult Protection - 0800 731 5520
Joint Child Protection Team 01224 306877 or 0800 731 5520
Age Scotland - 0800 1244 222
Local Councillors
Councillor Ciaran McRae 01224 346630
Community Contacts
YOUR LOCAL ELECTED OFFICIALS ARE:
Councillor David Cameron 07876760760
cimcrae@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Councillor Gordon Graham 01224 523594 ggraham@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Dacameron@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Councillor Donna Clark 07977399622 donclark@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Councillor Steve Delaney 01224 346614 Sdelaney@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Jackie Dunbar
Cllr Kate Blake 07977399530 kablake@aberdeencity.gov.uk
– MSP for Aberdeen Donside 01224 011936
Jackie.Dunbar.msp@parliament.sco
DOMESTIC ABUSE SUPPORT
Domestic Abuse is not acceptable. It is not your fault and you are not alone.Domestic Abuse is when you are hurt, bullied or frightened by: Your husband or wife, your boyfriend or girlfriend, your current or ex-partner
Help and support
Police Scotland
Aberdeen Carers Support Service - 01224 914036
CFINE 01224 596156
Their behaviour can be; controlling, physical, sexual, financial or emotional.
There are services available to support you, and they are still open. You do not have to wait for an emergency to get help. Tell someone you trust or contact:
If you are in danger and it is an emergency, call 999. For non-emergencies call 101
Financial Advice at CFINE 01224 531386
Pathways 01224 682 939
Citizens Advice 01224 586255
National Domestic Abuse Helpline Free and confidential advice. Open to all. 24 hours a day. Telephone: 0800 027 1234. Website: sdafmh.org.uk
