'Singing is one of the most positive forms of human activity, supporting physical, mental, emotional and social health, as well as individual development in the same areas.' (Professor Graham Welch for Sing Up). Scotland has a powerful singing tradition, with hundreds of groups across the … [Read more...] about Alison’s blog: why singing hits all the right notes when it comes to our health
Gillian’s Blog: Health inequalities in Scotland since devolution – what are the key trends?
In 2022, the Health Foundation commissioned an independent review of health inequalities in Scotland. To inform this review, researchers at the University of Glasgow were asked to produce a report describing trends in inequalities in the timing and causes of deaths, health and wellbeing, … [Read more...] about Gillian’s Blog: Health inequalities in Scotland since devolution – what are the key trends?
Maureen’s Blog: Meaning, Purpose and Hope
The World Health Organization defines health as being comprised of ‘body, mind and spirit’. The spiritual dimension is often ignored and misunderstood. However, it plays a significant part in our wellbeing as it is what makes us unique, it defines what really matters to us and helps us to build … [Read more...] about Maureen’s Blog: Meaning, Purpose and Hope
Claire’s blog: falling off a cliff at 65
As I hurtle towards retirement, with only a few weeks remaining of my time with VHS, I have been encouraged (thanks, team!) to pen a valedictory blog. I suppose the customary approach to this would be to reflect (in a slightly self-congratulatory way perhaps) on the many highlights and achievements … [Read more...] about Claire’s blog: falling off a cliff at 65
Heather’s blog: Common Wheel – supporting mental health across Glasgow
Heather Brown works as Participation and Volunteering Manager at Common Wheel, a charity that supports people managing or recovering from mental illness in Glasgow. In her blog she talks about the support they provide across their 4 main projects and why Community Link Workers (CLWs) are the perfect … [Read more...] about Heather’s blog: Common Wheel – supporting mental health across Glasgow
Christine’s Blog: Health Inequalities
Health Inequalities. Isn’t that a neat little phrase? Of course, those of us working in the Third sector, or in the public sector, have heard these two words many, many times. But does the phrase resonate with most ‘people on the street’? I doubt it. And yet, the fight against health inequalities is … [Read more...] about Christine’s Blog: Health Inequalities
Tejesh Mistry appointed to lead VHS
VHS has announced the appointment of Tejesh Mistry as the charity’s new Chief Executive. Tejesh takes up post in mid-March, succeeding Claire Stevens who retires at the end of March 2024 after 12 years of leading the organisation. Christine Carlin, Chair of VHS, said: "The Board and I are deeply … [Read more...] about Tejesh Mistry appointed to lead VHS
Ewa’s blog: What do Scots think about walking?
Paths for All have recently released their 2023 attitudes survey results, offering a fantastic glimpse into how people think and behave when it comes to getting around on foot or by wheelchair in Scotland. The research conducted by 56 Degree Insight surveyed 1,000 adults online. This survey updates … [Read more...] about Ewa’s blog: What do Scots think about walking?
Claire’s blog: spreading the joy of reading to children across Edinburgh
Claire Gardiner is a community link worker in north east Edinburgh. In her blog, she talks about how a chat with one parent about their family's bedtime routine led to her joining up with Books for Kids and spreading the joy of reading to hundreds of children across the city. “You are never too … [Read more...] about Claire’s blog: spreading the joy of reading to children across Edinburgh
VHS and NSS collaborate for healthy, safer lives
In October 2023 the Chief Executives of VHS and NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) signed a memorandum of agreement, to jointly affirm their intention to build a relationship based on collaborative working that will support the achievement of outcomes of the National Performance Framework and the … [Read more...] about VHS and NSS collaborate for healthy, safer lives
