"EVOC has been at the heart of charity in Edinburgh for 150 years, making life fairer for people from all walks of life"
MSPs have recognised the role and importance of a third sector group which is celebrating its 150th birthday.
A Scottish Parliament Motion to recognise EVOC’s commitment to supporting Edinburgh’s charity and voluntary organisations achieved support from over 20 MSPs, representing a range of parties.
The motion was lodged with support from Gordon Macdonald MSP, SNP member for Edinburgh Pentland.
He said: “I am delighted to be able to recognise EVOC’s 150th anniversary. EVOC has been at the heart of charity in Edinburgh for 150 years, making life fairer for people from all walks of life and fighting for social justice. The contribution of EVOC’s staff and volunteers has been outstanding.
“They have brought so many people together and helped create stronger, fairer and more inclusive communities. I wish everyone at EVOC all the best as they continue to support voluntary and community groups in Edinburgh for many years to come.”
The motion acknowledges the contribution that EVOC has made to ‘fighting for social justice and improved conditions for Edinburgh’s citizens’ and recognises the organisation’s unique historical connections to pioneering figures such as suffragist and medic, Dr Elsie Inglis and education campaigner, Flora Stevenson.
Recognition and support for the motion has come from across the political spectrum.
Neil Findlay MSP, Scottish Labour member for Lothian, said: “I was delighted to give my support to the motion that celebrates 150 years of EVOC providing critical and support and services to those most in need of them. With persistent cuts to public services, the existence of EVOC and the third sector in general, is all the more vital in picking up the pieces of austerity.
Lucy Ridley, EVOC 150 programme manager, said: “We are delighted that our motion to recognise EVOC’s rich and important history in Edinburgh’s communities has been generously supported by MSPs.
“We hope that this will highlight the vital work that charities and voluntary organisations do in the city, and encourage people to find out more and get involved.”
