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Episode 01
In this episode we are speaking to Alyson Smith, the founder and Executive Manger of Lochaber Hope. Find out how it all began, what keeps us going and what exciting projects we have coming up!
Episode 02
In this episode we are speaking to SWAN Autism - Scotland. Finding out a bit about SWAN and where it all started. We will discuss what barriers women with autism might be facing and what links there might be between women with Autism and Mental Health.
Find out what projects Swan have coming up!
Website: www.swanscotland.org
Email: info@swanscotland.org
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Episode 03
Join us with our special guest Sharyn Morgan from Change Mental Health!
Learn about their social prescribing service, find out what support is available and what projects Change has coming up.
Website: We are Change Mental Health
Phone: 0808 8010 515
Email: advice@changemh.org
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Episode 04
In this episode we are joined by Sal Mercer our special guest from Crocus Highland.
Crocus Highland is a bereavement support service for children and young people living in the Highlands.
Learn about the services that they offer and get some valuable insights into such a crucial yet rarely spoken about topic.
Website: Crocus Highland | Highland Hospice
Phone: 01463 714 568
Email: crocushighland@highlandhospice.org.uk
Make a referral: Make a referral to Crocus Highland | Highland Hospice
Episode 05
In this episode, we are joined by Simon Abberley, Business Development and Sustainability Manager of Nevis Radio, to find out more about the station and its incredible work.
Based in Fort William, Scotland, Nevis Radio and its dedicated volunteers support local charities, nurture new radio talent through partnerships with local schools and colleges, and provide a vital media platform for the community. We'll dive into their journey, the challenges they've faced, and the impact they've made.
If you want to find out more about how you can get involved email the team at admin@nevisradio.co.uk. Tune in to learn more about Nevis Radio's incredible work and community impact.
Website: Nevis Radio – Letting the Music Burst Out!
Studio: 01397 706100
Office: 01397 700007
Episode 06
In this episode, we are joined by Patrick Mullery, our special guest from James Support Group.
James Support Group is a support service for ALL affected by suicide & those who suffer suicidal thoughts.
"This group was formed because we- the family and friends of James have struggled to find any meaningful help here in the Highlands- even though the Highlands has the highest suicide rate in the UK".
Learn about the services that they offer and get some valuable insights into such an important issue.
Emergency Help (24/7 Helpline): 07563 572471
Website: Get Support – James Support Group
Episode 07
In this episode we are joined by Lesley Hawkins our special guest from Lochaber Environmental Group. LEG are working to reduce carbon emissions and foster a sustainable future for the environment and communities of Lochaber; focusing on active travel, local food production, waste reduction, energy efficiency and renewable energy.
Learn about what they are up to locally!
Website: Lochaber Environmental Group – Supporting sustainable living in Lochaber.
Phone: 01397 700090
Email: info@lochaberenviro.org.uk
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Episode 08
In this episode, we are excited to speak with Iona MacLeod, the new manager at New Connections. Join us as we explore what's been happening, what fuels our passion, and hear about the exciting projects that are coming up!
Do you know about all the great things happening at New Connections? Here’s a snapshot of what we offer:
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Peer support groups to connect and share experiences.
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Venue hire for conferences and events, perfect for your next big gathering.
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An open workspace available for anyone looking to work or study in a welcoming environment.
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Regular events open to the public, offering something for everyone!
Don’t miss out—tune in to learn more about how we’re building a stronger community together!
Website: Home | New Connections Lochaber
Phone: 01397 600145
Email: newconnections@lochaberhope.org.uk
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Episode 09
In this episode, we are joined by Ria Annand, our special guest from the Montrose Centre. The Montrose Centre provides day support services for adults with learning disabilities, focusing on promoting independence and personal growth. Their mission is to empower individuals to achieve their personal potential and outcomes through tailored support and care.
Learn more about the incredible work they do to uplift their community!
Website: Montrose Centre (Fort William) | NHS Highland
Phone: 01397 708451
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Episode 10
In this episode, we’re excited to sit down with Dani Drummond from Lochaber Action on Disability (LAD) to discuss their incredible work supporting individuals with disabilities in the community. From providing essential services to promoting inclusivity, LAD is making a real difference in Lochaber.
Here’s a glimpse of the services LAD offers:i
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Community Transport Service—reducing social isolation and ensuring everyone stays connected.
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Community Café, a warm and welcoming space to enjoy good food and company.
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Drop-In Centre—a safe and friendly environment for support and connection.
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Charity Shop, where every purchase supports their impactful initiatives.
Join us as we hear from Dani about LAD’s mission, the people they support, and the exciting projects on the horizon.
Website: LAD: Home
Phone: 01397 701171
Email: email enquiries@lad.org.uk
Episode 11
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Harry Tedstone, Community Engagement Officer at Highland Hospice.
Explore the transformative power of community engagement, hear about Harry’s remarkable journey into this impactful field, and discover how his work is creating meaningful change. Tune in for insights, inspiration, and a celebration of making a difference.
Website: Homepage | Highland Hospice
Phone: 01463 243132
Episode 12
In this episode, we're joined by Cat Vis-Christie, Lochaber Hope's dedicated schools counsellor, who works within our local primary and secondary schools to support young people in our community. Cat brings not only a wealth of experience but also a special friend - our Chief Pup and Therapy Pet, Rueben the Australian Labradoodle.
Learn about the impactful services Lochaber Hope offers, including how we help children and teens navigate emotional challenges and develop healthy coping strategies. Having a friendly, fluffy face like Rueben around can make the counselling experience more comfortable and welcoming for our younger clients.
Counselling can help young people cope with issues like anxiety, depression, bullying, grief, and trauma. In this episode, Cat breaks down the process and offers advice for parents looking to access counselling services for their children.
Tune in for this insightful conversation and learn how Lochaber Hope is making a difference in the lives of young people in our community.
To learn more about our counselling services, visit our Counselling Page. You can reach us Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, at 01397 704 836 or email us at admin@lochaberhope.org.uk
Episode 13
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Lesley Wells, author of A Duck But Tall in the Water, as we delve into her life, her writing journey, and the story behind her book.
We also explore Lesley’s involvement with Crafternoon, a craft group hosted at New Connections, where creativity and community come together. Tune in to hear how Lesley’s work and the Crafternoon group are supporting connections, creativity, and meaningful social engagement. Don’t miss this opportunity for insight, inspiration, and a celebration of the power of community and creativity.
You can find Lesleys book on amazon through this link.
Episode 14
In this episode, we are joined by Allison Kane and Laura McKenzie , our special guest from Care Lochaber. Care Lochaber established the Lochaber Community Car Scheme, and the service has now been running for twenty years. Care Lochaber provides transport, social events, and volunteer support to assist older, disabled, and isolated individuals in Lochaber, promoting independence and well-being.
Learn more about the incredible work they do to uplift their community!
Website: Home - Care Lochaber
Office Phone: 01397 700311
Booking Phone: 01397 701222
Episode 15
In this episode we are joined by Rory Green, our special guest from the Lochaber Archive Centre in Fort William.
The centre is dedicated to locating, preserving, and making accessible documents that tell the story of Highland life—from the 17th century to the present day.
Rory shares how archives help keep local history alive, support community identity, and offer hope through connection to the past.
Website: Lochaber Archive Centre - Lochaber Archive Centre
Phone: 01397 707050
