Soul of the Junction SCIO Secures Funding for New Intergenerational Workshop Programme in Carstairs Junction

Soul of the Junction SCIO is delighted to announce that we have successfully secured funding from the Woodroffe Benton Foundation to support a new series of intergenerational wellbeing and creative workshops in Carstairs Junction.

This funding will allow us to deliver a range of free community sessions designed to bring people of different ages together through creativity, movement, conversation and shared experiences. The programme aims to tackle social isolation, improve wellbeing and create stronger community connections within our rural area.

Over the coming months, the workshops will include activities such as creative reuse and sustainable crafting, circle dancing, arts and wellbeing sessions, gentle social activities and other inclusive opportunities shaped around the interests of local residents.

At Soul of the Junction SCIO, we strongly believe that communities become stronger when generations connect with one another. Older residents hold valuable stories, knowledge and skills, while younger generations bring fresh perspectives, creativity and energy. Creating spaces where people can learn together helps foster understanding, confidence and belonging across all ages.

The programme also links closely with our wider environmental and community wellbeing goals. Many of the creative sessions will focus on reuse, sustainability and reimagining waste materials into art and practical creations — encouraging both creativity and climate awareness in accessible and enjoyable ways.

One of the first workshops planned through this support is our Intergenerational Circle Dancing programme led by the wonderful Jo Freeman, alongside a series of Creative Reuse Workshops exploring handmade jewellery, textile art, mixed-media making and other sustainable crafts.

Importantly, these sessions will remain completely free for attendees thanks to the support of the Woodroffe Benton Foundation. In a time where many individuals and families face financial pressures, accessible community activities are more important than ever.

Silviya Savova, Founder and Trustee of Soul of the Junction SCIO, said:

“We are incredibly grateful to the Woodroffe Benton Foundation for believing in our vision for community wellbeing in Carstairs Junction. This funding allows us to create welcoming spaces where people of all ages can come together, reduce isolation, share skills and simply enjoy meaningful time with one another. These kinds of programmes can make a real difference in rural communities.”

As the programme develops, Soul of the Junction SCIO hopes to continue expanding opportunities for local people to connect, create and thrive together within a safe and inclusive environment.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks once again to the Woodroffe Benton Foundation for helping make these opportunities possible for our community.