In the centre of Leith, a unique charity leaves its mark on the lives of people with learning disabilities. As part of our community week, we shine the spotlight on All Together Edinburgh, located at 87 Leith Walk, is not your average charity shop, it’s also a training centre that provides individuals with the retail skills, confidence, and qualifications needed to get them into work, voluntary work, or further education.

Founded by Debbie Douglas, All Together Edinburgh London has been a hope for over 15 years, helping more than 150 trainees become independent.

A charity shop with a purpose

Debbie took inspiration for All Together Edinburgh from her experience working with learning-disabled adults in day centers and charity shops. Having seen the learning potential of charity shops, she wished to provide a place where people could develop practical skills in the safety of a friendly environment.

“We witnessed how great a charity shop could be as a learning environment, especially for people with additional needs. Therefore, I left working for Barnardo’s and established a charity shop as a training centre,” says Debbie.

In collaboration with organisations like Borders College, Volunteer Edinburgh, and the Action Group, All Together Edinburgh offers one-to-one training that is tailored to each trainee’s strengths and goals.

Building Confidence and Employability

Overall, All Together Edinburgh trainees gain hands-on experience working in the shop and learning skills such as:

• Customer service
• Handling cash and working with a register
• Health and Safety
• Marketing photography and videography

The Ready for Retail award, in collaboration with Borders College, awards the trainees the formal qualifications (SQCF units), enhancing their employability.

“We tailor the training to them. Some find employment, some attend college, and some get the confidence to work in another charity shop. It’s all about getting them to the next step,” says Debbie.

A Successful Community Initiative

All Together, Edinburgh thrives with the support of the people who live there. From shopping and donating to volunteering, all actions add up to making people’s lives better.

“Everyone notices what we are doing and would like to get involved with it. Even ex-trainees return to see us or donate things because they appreciate the impact it has had on them,” says Debbie.

How You Can Get Involved

 You can support All Together Edinburgh in several ways:

• Donate to their charity shop.
• Every sale aids training and development.
• Volunteer to support the trainees and help in running the shop.
• Donate clothing, books, and household goods for resale.
• Contribute financial aid to sustain their effective programs

Every action, though small, opens doors and brings us to a more inclusive tomorrow.

A Legacy of Impact 

Debbie’s favourite part of her job is to witness the transformation of the trainees.

“Seeing graduates, standing confidently in front of families and carers, and even talking about what they have been through makes it all worthwhile,” she says.

Overall, All Together Edinburgh isn’t just about training; it’s about creating a living legacy, one where people with learning disabilities can thrive, make valuable contributions to society, and build meaningful lives.

Join the movement! Come and visit All Together Edinburgh, 87 Leith Walk, and become part of this positive journey!

Want to catch up on our interview with All Together Edinburgh? Click here:

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