Home-Start Aberdeen has installed a new heating system at its recently opened charity shop on George Street, ensuring a warmer and more welcoming environment for volunteers, staff and shoppers.
The charity had identified that the existing heating system in the building was no longer functioning properly and required significant repair, leaving the shop space extremely cold during the winter months.
Thanks to funding support secured through the Aberdeen Energy Efficiency Programme, which is delivered by SCARF (local fuel poverty and energy efficiency charity) and Aberdeen City Council, alongside additional funds raised through the charity’s recent shop move, Home-Start Aberdeen was able to move forward with the installation, which completed last week.
SCARF works across the north-east to help households and organisations access funding and advice to make buildings warmer, more energy efficient and more affordable to heat.
The new system has transformed the shop environment, ensuring volunteers and visitors can enjoy a comfortable space while browsing the wide range of pre-loved clothing, toys, books and homeware available.
Cameron McCready, Chief Executive of Home-Start Aberdeen, said: “Having a warm and welcoming space for our volunteers, shoppers and the families we support is incredibly important to us. When we realised the existing heating system wasn’t working properly, we knew we had to find a solution as quickly as possible. The installation itself was quite complex, with the new system needing to be craned onto the roof of the building, so we’re incredibly grateful to the team who helped make it happen.
“We’d particularly like to thank the local contractors involved, including Air Con Scotland and JK Crane Hire, whose expertise and support ensured the work could be completed safely and efficiently. We’re also extremely grateful to SCARF for helping us secure the funding needed to install the new system. Alongside creating a much warmer and more comfortable environment for everyone who visits or volunteers in the shop, the new system will dramatically reduce our energy consumption and carbon footprint, helping us operate in a more sustainable and environmentally responsible way while continuing to support local families.”
The charity shop plays a vital role in helping Home-Start Aberdeen raise funds for its family support services across the city, while also providing affordable items for the community and supporting the reuse of good quality goods.
Home-Start Aberdeen has been supporting families with young children across the city for more than 35 years, providing practical and emotional support through its network of trained volunteers. For more information visit www.homestartaberdeen.org.uk