David Carpenter, the group’s English Speaker of Other Languages Coordinator, explains: “We teach around 550 people every six months. There are so many refugees, migrants and asylum seekers in Edinburgh who need that opportunity but as a small charity, we didn’t have the money to hire halls.”
Recognising this gap, in 2022 the University launched Community Access to Rooms. This initiative allows community groups to use a variety of University spaces for free when they’re not needed for teaching, learning, or research.
Nearly two years on, the initiative continues to grow from strength to strength, with over 100 local groups and organisations now benefiting from the scheme.
Since the pilot launch in 2022, more than 3,400 hours of free meeting space has been provided, saving community groups an estimated £27,000.
A wide range of groups, from choirs and support groups to community councils and orchestras, have used the spaces.
Community Access to Rooms is part of the University’s 2020–2025 Community Plan and supports our commitment to open up our estate.
Professor Lesley McAra, Assistant Principal Community Relations, said: “We’re proud to open our doors to local groups and organisations. Making Community Access to Rooms a permanent fixture and expanding its reach reflects our commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive hub that helps our community thrive.”
Opening our University spaces unlocks significant opportunities to empower local organisations across Edinburgh, enabling them to deliver vital services to the community. The team behind the initiative is actively working to expand both the number and variety of available rooms, ensuring this support reaches its fullest potential.
To find out more, visit the Community Access to Rooms webpage: