The event provided an opportunity for residents to speak directly with services covering a wide range of needs, including health and wellbeing, employment, money and finance advice, housing and rent support, emergency food access, children and family support, volunteering, and mental health. Additionally, Prestonpans GP Surgery and East Coast Ear Care offered free cardiovascular and ear health checks.
These 'Information Hub' events, which have been running for over a year and rotate locations across East Lothian monthly, are experiencing growing demand. The last five events saw over 500 engagements with organisations and resulted in more than 60 follow-up activities for individuals requiring additional support.
Residents have highlighted the significant positive impact of these hubs. One woman described the ease and reduced stress of accessing finance, education, and employment support in a single location, stating, “Without the hub, this would have taken a lot out of me. I’m so grateful to have this opportunity to meet with organisations in person.”
Another resident received immediate practical help, securing a referral from the East Lothian Foodbank. A couple attending for health and vaccination information found unexpected employment support when a gentleman, apprehensive about returning to work after several years as a stay-at-home dad, was connected with East Lothian Works and other employment services. He reported feeling “much less apprehensive about his next steps back into employment” after exploring his options.
“"What makes the Information Hubs so valuable is that someone can come through the door with one question and leave having accessed support they may not even have known was available. The growing number of conversations and follow-ups shows the difference that bringing services together in local, accessible community settings can make."
The next Information Hub is scheduled for Saturday 31 October at The Ridge, Dunbar, from 11am to 1pm. The final event of the year will be on Saturday 5 December at John Gray Centre, Haddington, from 12pm to 2pm. Everyone is welcome, and no prior appointment is required.
Planning is underway to coordinate monthly Information Hubs throughout 2027, with further details on venues to be confirmed. More information on upcoming events can be found at www.volunteereastlothian.org.uk/information-hubs.
