Following on from the success of Office Advent last year, Joanna Cherry QC MP has challenged her staff for a second year to get involved in supporting local organisations and campaigns throughout the month of December.
On Office Advent day 8, team Edinburgh South West returned to the fantastic Wester Hailes Youth Agency to wrap Christmas presents for the young people who attend their groups and workshops.
Commenting on the work of WHYA, Joanna Cherry said:
WHYA is testament to the importance that youth work can play on the lives of our young people. Since being elected as a Member of Parliament for Edinburgh South West, I have visited the youth agency on a couple of occasions and have been struck by the dedication of their staff and volunteers; and their passion for making a difference.
In providing a varied programme, workshops and groups sessions that target the issues our young people are faced with, the youth agency have been successful in developing a strong rapport with the local community. The importance of youth work in our communities is immense. Organisations such as the WHYA play a vital role in encouraging our children and young people; improving their self-esteem, providing guidance and support and equipping them with the skills required to succeed.
Joanna and her team have got involved in a number of other organisations and good causes over the festive period; from chatting with elderly and isolated individuals at the Riccarton Inn Christmas lunch to visiting staff and volunteers at SAMH’s Redhall Walled Gardens.
Joanna Cherry said:
I am continually reminded that Edinburgh South West is built upon the enthusiasm and dedication of its people and organisations and driven by an army of individuals passionate about making a difference.
As preparations for Christmas become manic, it’s easy to overlook the charitable operations which run silently in the background. Team Edinburgh South West have been overwhelmed by the number of individuals committed to making a difference this Christmas.
