Dumfries

After having received funding from the Holywood Trust, Better Lives Partnership expanded to open in Dumfries in September 2021. 

B2E @ Nithsdale and Annandale welcomed young people to its new workroom at Grierson House, at the Crichton Estate. Ever since, the project has been bridging the gap between school and college or employment by providing opportunities for young people to continue to develop their skills, and confidence and get ready for their next steps. The close proximity of BLP’s Dumfries workroom to the college is well set for a partnership with some of the other educational providers and helps make transitions smoother.   

At Dumfries, young people are able to receive person-centred programmes through Better Lives Partnership’s Bridge to Employment project as well as access to a variety of ASDAN courses and support with Open University. 

Better Lives Partnership at the Crichton

Our Dumfries site is incredibly fortunate to be located on the grounds of The Crichton and we spend a lot of our time getting involved with the amazing community, groups and local businesses on site.

We have very kindly been given use of the greenhouse and a few raised beds at The Crichton by the University of Glasgow’s Environmental Studies department. This allows us to have regular practical sessions in our Gardening ASDANs sessions and grow our own vegetables.

We have also been able to take part in pottery classes at the Clay Work Studios, learning to throw bowls on a pottery wheel, as part of our Bridge 2 Creative sessions.

We have also used the wide expanse of grounds for orienteering classes and even joined Felix from Deep Green Space to pot our sunflower seeds once they are grown they will become part of The Crichton’s Sunflower Field.

Debbie Templeton

Senior Support Worker

Dumfries is a warm and welcoming place to be where young people who are autistic and/or face additional barriers can be themselves in an empowering space where they can explore new skills, discover fresh experiences, and grow with confidence.

Whether It’s trying something for the first time or building on existing strengths, we’re here to make every step feel safe, encouraging, and enjoyable. We are a place where potential is celebrated and possibilities open up.

If you would like more information on what Dumfries can offer please reach out!