Ray Chisholm - Computing Class

I am Ray, a volunteer, who runs a couple of weekly computing class at PEP; on Tuesdays 10:00 – 12:00 and Thursdays 13:00 – 15:00. We have a well equipped computer room with around 10 PCs which are all Internet enabled. Whether you are a complete novice who would just like to find out about computing and using the Internet, or already have your own PC at home and would like help in expanding your knowledge – we can help. If are already a laptop owner you can, if you wish, bring it along and use it in our computer room. If you would like to find out more about these classes why not pop in or give us a call.

Peter Holdsworth- gardening and passenger assistance

My name is Peter and I started volunteering in 2009 after my college course finished. I heard about PEP through other groups in the area and I wanted to volunteer to get out of the house, to help others and to gain confidence. I have been awarded an Edinburgh City Council Inspiring Volunteers award for my work in the gardening team. At PEP I volunteer in lots of different roles. I help with gardening and as a passenger assistant helping people on and off the buses. Sometimes I help with the weekend resource and clubs. Through volunteering with PEP I have learnt new tasks and skills that I never had before. The staff and volunteers here are very nice and friendly and so I am happy and enjoy my role as a volunteer at PEP.

Update on Andrew Crighton - September 09

It was last September when we proudly announced that Andrew had found employment at the Capital Hotel in Clermiston. Still employed and enjoying his work, Andrew recently bought a new push bike to travel to his workplace from his home in Muirhouse. Andrew realises the importance of his life-long learning sessions with PEP and faithfully attends every week in his free time. His new chosen subject is that of the American way of life - past and present. From John Wayne to Basketball, if you want to discuss it - talk to Andrew !!. Andrew, we at PEP are delighted with your continued dedication and wish you well for the future.

Innovation Awards

Seen accepting his new award from volunteer organiser Roy Douglas is Terry Strachan. Terry, one of the many cheery escorts on PEP's accessable mini buses said "An award for something I love doing - Great" !!

Just weeks after starting as a driver with PEP, Charlie (yes it is the same guy in the picture below) decided he would brighten up the proceedings at the big PEP party by donning the most stunning tie seen this side of Morningside. In an era that is famed for its conservative dress sense (compared to the sixties that is.) it was if nothing else - natty!! Charlie you are amazing and we all agree that you fit the bill of drivers requirements as a fun loving guy. Perhaps, given the right encouragenent from his passengers, he might just include this inanimate appendage to his drivers outfit for future runs to the ladies clubs or special outings. What do you think?

Charlie Forsyth, previously a fork lift driver, was referred to PEP
by Working Links. He identified driving as an interest he would like to pursue with us (being an experienced driver) and was put through the MIDAS Test by Roy Douglas, our Qualified Assessor and full-time Volunteer Manager. That was on the Friday. By Monday Charlie had his first run on our accessible buses saying "I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would recommend and encourage anyone to volunteer rather than sit about the house. We appreciate and value the contribution people like Charlie make to improving conditions for the people in our local community, and who else better to do it with than ----- PEP!!