Aberdeen Cyrenians is a local charity and social care provider, supporting some of the most vulnerable people in communities across the city facing homelessness, crisis and addiction.

Discussions during another visit to Cairncry Community Centre included how the council can support community organisations to tackle poverty in the community and support financial sustainability.

Aberdeen City Council co-leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “Third sector organisations have helped members of our committee and Council staff to hear first-hand the vital partnership working taking place every day across our city.

“It has been incredibly interesting to visit communities and third sector organisations to hear from the staff and volunteers and learn about how they are continuously working to shift perceptions and change the outlook on homelessness and vulnerability in our city.”

Anti-Poverty and Inequality vice-convener Councillor Desmond Bouse said: “These visits have been extremely helpful for the Committee and for officers in learning about the work of organisations across the city. They have also assisted the organisations themselves, as each visit identified actions for improvement to be carried out by officers. These visits highlight the fantastic support our partners deliver within the city and help promote their invaluable contribution.”

Looking ahead, in December 2024 committee members are taking part in the AberNecessities Christmas Volunteering opportunity, helping to play a role in the Believe in Magic campaign which aims to provide essential items and support to children living in poverty across the North East of Scotland, ensuring, “no child misses out on the wonder of the most magical time of the year”.

Any citizens in need of cost-of-living support can visit dedicated webpages for more information.