First VIY Scotland Project Creates Lasting Impact

When Volunteer It Yourself (VIY) began looking for its first project in Scotland, Bell Group suggested exploring opportunities through the ESES Communities Portal. VIY is a social enterprise that supports young people to develop practical trade skills and confidence by working alongside experienced professionals on real community improvement projects.

At the same time, Royston Wardieburn Community Centre in North Edinburgh had a live request on the portal, seeking support to revitalise its courtyard and improve key indoor spaces used by local residents and community groups.

Thanks to a collaborative effort involving VIY, The Screwfix Foundation and the George and Annette Bell Foundation, a project was developed to transform underused areas of the centre into more welcoming, practical spaces that the community can enjoy for years to come.

The Need

Royston Wardieburn Community Centre is a vibrant local hub, hosting sports activities, support groups, family services, community events, a weekly community meal and a low-cost pantry. However, several indoor and outdoor areas required improvements to make them more attractive, functional and accessible for the many people who use the centre each week.

The courtyard in particular had become tired and underutilised, limiting its potential as an outdoor space for community activities and social connection.

The Support Provided

Over a two-week period, VIY participants, supported by industry professionals and Screwfix volunteers, completed a wide range of improvements across the centre.

Outdoor works included:

  • Removal of existing soft matting and installation of new artificial grass.
  • Construction of four bespoke timber planters for growing vegetables.
  • Building two new wooden benches to create welcoming seating areas.
  • Creation of a ventilated outdoor storage unit.

 

Internal improvements included:

  • Repairs and adjustments to the centre's kitchen units.
  • Repair of the granite worktop.
  • Construction of a new timber storage unit to replace an ageing metal cabinet.
  • Improvements to the pot wash area, including repositioning appliances and creation of additional workspace.

Working Together

The project brought together community need, charitable funding and industry expertise to deliver meaningful change.

Funding support from The Screwfix Foundation and the George and Annette Bell Foundation helped make the improvements possible, while Bell Group's connection through the ESES Communities Portal enabled VIY to identify a project where their unique model of combining practical work with skills development could make a significant impact.

The project also provided valuable hands-on experience for young people working alongside experienced tradespeople, helping them develop confidence, practical skills and employability.

The Impact

The transformed courtyard now provides a more welcoming and usable outdoor environment for residents, families and community groups. The new planters will enable the centre to grow fresh produce for the local community, while the additional seating creates opportunities for people to meet, socialise and enjoy the space.

Inside the centre, the upgraded kitchen and storage areas have improved functionality for staff and volunteers, supporting the delivery of essential community services and activities.

 

 

Community Feedback

"Thank you to VIY for the huge amount of work they have done this week. Also, a big thank you to the Screwfix volunteers who have done a lovely job in the kitchen and in the courtyard. The young volunteers did an excellent job too. I hope they all got something out of the experience that will help them in the future.

We are looking forward to filling the planters and enjoying the last bits of sunshine on the benches."

Suzanne Ebel, Member of the Management Committee, Royston Wardieburn Community Centre

 

We’re delighted to see VIY expand into Scotland for the first time through this project at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre. This important milestone has been made possible through the support of partners including The Screwfix Foundation and the George & Annette Bell Foundation. Together, we’re creating opportunities for young people across Scotland to gain valuable skills, experience and qualifications while delivering lasting benefits for local communities.
‐ Hannah Denny, Communications and Partnership Director, VIY

Looking Ahead

This project highlights the power of collaboration in creating stronger, more resilient communities. By bringing together funders, businesses, skilled volunteers and community organisations, a neglected space has been transformed into an asset that will benefit local people for years to come.

From improved facilities to new opportunities for food growing, learning and social connection, the project leaves a lasting legacy at the heart of North Edinburgh.