TSI Learning Portal Continues to Grow
The TSI Learning Portal continues to be a valuable resource for Third Sector Interfaces across Scotland, providing access to a wide range of free learning and development opportunities for staff. The platform is now operating stably following recent system changes and is being used by a growing number of TSIs.
New learning content is currently being developed, including modules focused on leadership, climate change, and health and safety, adding to the extensive range of resources already available. TSI organisations can access relevant courses free of charge using the appropriate access codes. Previous usage data showed that human rights and equalities courses were the most popular, followed by learning on climate change, health and safety, and governance.
The portal offers flexible, self-paced learning and continues to support workforce development, knowledge sharing, and organisational resilience across Scotland’s Third Sector
To find out more, visit the TSI Learning Portal at https://tsi-learning.scot.
An Introduction to Funding Training – Module 2
Join us for the second module in our Fundraising Training Series, designed to help organisations improve their funding success.
This session will focus on completing a strong funding application, covering what funders are looking for and practical ways to make your application stand out.
You’ll learn:
- What information to include in your application
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Tips for strengthening your funding bids
- How to make your application more compelling
This is the second of three modules, and attending all three sessions is recommended to get the most from the training.
Date: 24/09/2026
Time: 18:00 – 20:00
Location – Volunteer Centre East Lothian
https://vcel.org.uk/events/an-introduction-to-funding-training-module-2/
Funded Mental Health Training Available in East Lothian
Funded training places are available for East Lothian volunteers and community practitioners through the East Lothian Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund. These opportunities are delivered in partnership with Volunteer Centre East Lothian.
ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)
A two-day workshop that helps participants recognise suicide risk and provide effective support.
Date: 28 & 29 September 2026
Time: 09:00 – 17:00
Location – Pennypitt Centre, Double Dykes Rope Walk, Knightsridge, Livingston, Prestonpans, EH32 9BN
Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.
More information: info@environmentalhealthcic.org
ASIST registration: https://mhandsplearning.publichealthscotland.scot/course_registration.aspx?id=d3943f24-f814-4e5b-8144-a142e39f6106
VCEL – Colleague Connection is an informal networking event.
This relaxed get-together is for everyone who works with the voluntary and community sector, including colleagues from East Lothian Council, Health & Social Care Partnership and our Local Councillors, who are all welcome to attend.
Come and connect with others across the sector, share knowledge and experiences, build relationships, and spark ideas that make a difference—all while enjoying a cuppa and a biscuit roll with people who care.
Please do bring your business card and/or some leaflets to share with those you will be connecting with.
We’d love to see you there!
Date: 01/10/2026
Time: 17:00 – 19:00
Location – Volunteer Centre East Lothian
https://vcel.tfaforms.net/99?eventid=a05P300000S8Gyl
Prestonpans Information Hub
The East Lothian Information Hubs will be hosting the Prestonpans Information Hub, bringing together a range of local organisations offering advice, support, and information on health and wellbeing, housing, employability, family support, and community services.
Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with local organisations, access free cardiovascular health checks from Prestonpans GP Surgery and free ear health checks from East Coast Ear Care, and enjoy complimentary refreshments and children’s activities.
The event offers a welcoming opportunity for local residents to discover the support available across East Lothian and make connections with services within the community.
Date: Thursday 8 October
Time: 2:30pm to 4:30pm
Venue: Prestonpans Community Centre
No booking required. Everyone is welcome.
https://vcel.org.uk/wellbeing-hub-information-hubs/information-hubs/
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
Knowing how to respond when someone may be experiencing thoughts of suicide can make a life-changing difference. Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a practical, accredited two-day programme delivered by Substances Support Scotland, helping participants develop the skills and confidence to provide immediate support and connect individuals with the help they need.
Participants will learn how to recognise suicide risk, use a structured intervention approach, and support people in creating a plan for safety.
This training is suitable for frontline staff, professionals, volunteers, and anyone who may encounter someone at risk of suicide in their work or personal life.
Date: 14 & 15 October 2026
Time: 9.30am to 5.00pm
Location: Substances Support Scotland, 24 Hill Street, Kirkcaldy
Cost: £125 per person (group discounts available)
The course is accredited by Public Health Scotland, and participants will receive a certificate upon successful completion.
To find out more or book a place, visit www.substancessupportscotland.org, email Dom.Kostanjsak@ss-scot.org, or call 07747 623604.
Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.
https://vcel.org.uk/events/applied-suicide-intervention-skills-training-asist/
Putting People First: Trauma Informed Practice
Trauma can have a lasting impact on people’s wellbeing, relationships, confidence, and ability to access support. A trauma informed approach helps organisations recognise these challenges and respond in ways that promote safety, trust, and recovery.
This training explores what trauma is, how it affects people, the role of attachment and adverse childhood experiences, and practical ways to respond in a trauma informed manner while also supporting your own wellbeing.
A 2023 Scottish Government review highlighted benefits for both individuals and services, including improved wellbeing, better access to support, stronger communication, and increased staff confidence.
Trainer: Sarah Sutherland, Person-Centred and Trauma Lead, East Lothian Council.
Ideal for those working in healthcare, education, housing, social services, customer services, the third sector, community groups, and leadership roles.
Date: 19/10/2026
Time: 9.30am to 15:30
Location: Volunteer Centre East Lothian
https://vcel.org.uk/events/putting-people-first-trauma-informed-practice-3/
An Introduction to Funding Training – Module 3
Join us for the final module in our Fundraising Training Series, focusing on project evaluation and monitoring.
Understanding and demonstrating the impact of your work is an essential part of successful fundraising. This session will explore how to gather meaningful information and evidence, helping you confidently report back to funders and showcase the difference your organisation is making.
You’ll learn:
- The basics of project monitoring and evaluation
- How to collect meaningful data and feedback
- Ways to measure and demonstrate impact
- How to produce strong reports for funders
This is the third and final module in the series. We recommend attending all three modules to gain the maximum benefit from the training.
Develop the skills and confidence needed to evidence your impact, strengthen future funding applications, and meet funder reporting requirements.
Date: 29/10/2026
Time: 18:00 – 20:00
Location – Volunteer Centre East Lothian
https://vcel.org.uk/events/an-introduction-to-funding-training-module-3/
Third Sector Annual Conference 2026
Join Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) on Wednesday 11 November 2026 for the VCEL Third Sector Annual Conference 2026 at The Royal Musselburgh Golf Club.
Building on the conversations and connections developed through previous conferences, this year’s theme, “From Talking to Doing: East Lothian in Action,” focuses on turning ideas into meaningful action. The event will bring together Third Sector organisations, community groups, volunteers, funders, and public sector partners to explore how we can work together to create positive change for local communities.
Through inspiring keynote speakers, interactive Action Labs, and collaborative discussions, delegates will have the opportunity to share experiences, develop practical solutions, and identify actions that strengthen communities across East Lothian.
Attendees can look forward to networking opportunities, learning from others, exploring new partnerships, and contributing to conversations around collaboration, volunteering, sustainability, funding, and community impact.
To maximise opportunities for networking and engagement, there will be no exhibition stalls or marketplace stands this year. However, delegates are encouraged to bring leaflets, flyers, banners, and information about their services, projects, and activities to share with others.
The conference is open to Third Sector organisations, community groups, volunteers, trustees, public sector partners, funders, and anyone passionate about strengthening communities across East Lothian.
Date: Wednesday 11 November 2026
Time: 9am to 4pm
Location: The Royal Musselburgh Golf Club
Places are limited and advance booking is essential.
https://vcel.org.uk/events/vcel-third-sector-annual-conference-2026/
PVG Question Answered: Join Our Information and Q&A Session:
The changes to PVG legislation in April 2025 amended who needs to be checked and what the criteria are that bring people into PVG.
Volunteer Scotland Disclosure Services and SVE will be running sessions later in the year, these sessions will last for an hour and will start off as an information session covering
• how you can access PVG checks,
• get the PVG results back,
• who requires to be checked,
• who can see the disclosure information
• and does being checked by one group cover me for all volunteering across different groups.
Following that we’ll run a Q&A for the remainder of the time. The Q&A part will be your opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the disclosure process, these do not have to be related to any of the topics above, any questions around PVG and we’ll try and answer it for you.
The disclosure scheme guidance for was amended by Disclosure Scotland in December 2025 with a short further update in May 2026 and VSDS are looking to get updated information out to as many groups as possible to ensure that everyone is meeting their requirements around who needs to be checked
Date: 10/02/2027
Time: 11:00 – 12:00
Location: Online
https://vcel.org.uk/events/pvg-questions-answered-join-our-information-and-qa-session/ |
