1st Step to A Better Life!

We recently visited 1st Step Community Cafe in Linlithgow to see first-hand the impressive work taking place there.

During the visit, volunteers prepared a delicious lunch using fresh ingredients harvested from their beautifully maintained community garden. 

1st Step received a grant from the SPA Community Benefit Fund, managed by Lintel Trust, to support the recruitment of a Recovery and Connection Coordinator. This new post has increased the charity’s capacity, enabling it to provide more opportunities for people living in local communities. 

The charity works with people on the road to recovery from addiction, as well as families and friends affected by addiction. It also supports people experiencing poor mental health, isolation and poverty, alongside ex-offenders and those living in areas of deprivation. 

Its wide range of activities includes two community food pantries in Bridgend and Falkirk, a warm space community hub, regular recovery meetings, and two workshops where volunteers and participants repair and service bikes. This learning can continue through an OUTREACH course, where participants train in bike mechanics while working on a bike they get to keep once completed. They are then welcomed as volunteers and can further develop their skills towards Velotech Bike Technician bronze and silver levels. 

One of the most striking things about 1st Step is that almost all paid staff began as service users before progressing into volunteering, developing and leading activities, and eventually moving into paid roles. This is also the journey taken by the new Coordinator, who is proud of the path she has followed. As we spoke with people at 1st Step, it was clear that the impact of this work is significant and far-reaching. From supporting people affected by addiction to helping those facing poverty, isolation and other challenges, 1st Step is making a real difference in people’s lives. We were inspired by its innovative approach, and it was a privilege to witness such meaningful work first-hand. To find out more, or to offer support, visit the 1st Step Recovery website.