Directory · EH
EH
54 places in the EH postcode area.
These are not sorted by distance, because we have not asked you where you are. Tell us your postcode and we will sort them by how far they are, and tell you who is open right now.
Food
Community Fridge
Whitburn Community Fridge open Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri, 10am-12noon and Thurs 5pm-7pm (only)
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 27 August 2026.
An independent food bank. We don't know whether this one needs a referral voucher — many do. Ring them, or ask a local adviser, before setting out.
From Give Food (opens in a new tab), checked 27 October 2026.
Community Pantry
Food Facts Friends is a community hub providing affordable food, essential services, and a welcoming space to tackle food insecurity, isolation, and hardship within Midlothian. Our Midlothian Community Pantry offers affordable food and essential goods to ensure access to nutritious options for all. As a member of The Scottish Pantry Network, we take a dignity-driven approach to food access.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 27 August 2026.
A food bank in the IFAN network. We don't know whether this one needs a referral voucher — many do. Ring them, or ask a local adviser, before setting out.
From Give Food (opens in a new tab), checked 26 October 2026.
A food bank in the Trussell network.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Confirmed by 2 sources. From Give Food (opens in a new tab) and Trussell (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
A food bank in the Trussell network.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Confirmed by 2 sources. From Give Food (opens in a new tab) and Trussell (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
A food bank in the Trussell network.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Confirmed by 2 sources. From Give Food (opens in a new tab) and Trussell (opens in a new tab), checked 27 October 2026.
A food bank in the Trussell network.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Confirmed by 2 sources. From Give Food (opens in a new tab) and Trussell (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Empty Kitchens
We aim to relieve poverty in Edinburgh by providing meals - made using surplus food - and follow-up support to people across the city, free of charge, and without judgement. We provide weekly on-site meals - every Friday 1 pm - 2 pm, come visit us for some hot food and a chat with our lovely volunteers! If you're coming by bus, you can reach us using the 8, 16, 19, 47 & 200.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 29 October 2026.
An independent food bank. We don't know whether this one needs a referral voucher — many do. Ring them, or ask a local adviser, before setting out.
From Give Food (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Part of Midlothian Foodbank.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
From The food bank's own locations page (opens in a new tab), checked 5 October 2026.
An independent food bank. We don't know whether this one needs a referral voucher — many do. Ring them, or ask a local adviser, before setting out.
From Give Food (opens in a new tab), checked 27 October 2026.
A free weekly community meal held at St Nicholas Parish Church from 12pm-2pm in partnership with Bethany Christian Trust, B Healthy and St Nicholas Parish Church. Surplus supermarket food available to take away, as well as access to local information and support. For more information, get in touch with Felicity (07890557398) or Rebecca (07949582158)
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Join us each week for a free, delicious lunch and a chance to connect with others in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you're popping in for a cuppa and a chat, looking to meet new people, or take part in some fun activities like baking or crafts, Lunchtime Plug-in is a space where everyone is welcome. To check when the group is meeting or for more information please contact Marina on 07436 37…
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 27 August 2026.
A food bank in the Trussell network.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Confirmed by 3 sources. From ALISS (opens in a new tab), Give Food (opens in a new tab) and Trussell (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026. Their own record hasn't been updated since 2020, so check before setting out.
Open Door Meals
Our weekly Open Door Meals service supports anyone who is experiencing homelessness, vulnerably housed or suffering from poverty or social exclusion. Every Wednesday from 5-6:30pm at the Grassmarket Centre, a two-course, freshly-prepared meal is served by our friendly team of GCP volunteers and staff.
You can just turn up. No referral or voucher needed.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Part of Peeblesshire Foodbank.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
From The food bank's own locations page (opens in a new tab), checked 5 October 2026.
A food bank in the Trussell network.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Confirmed by 3 sources. From ALISS (opens in a new tab), Give Food (opens in a new tab) and Trussell (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Part of Edinburgh SE Foodbank.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
From The food bank's own locations page (opens in a new tab), checked 5 October 2026.
A food bank in the Trussell network.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Confirmed by 2 sources. From Give Food (opens in a new tab) and Trussell (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Clothes and warm places
Each client receives a bespoke dressing consultation with two trained, volunteer stylists and will leave with a beautiful, high-quality outfit. This service is free of charge and the clothes are hers to keep. This is followed by a one-to-one coaching session with an expert volunteer interview coach so she feels confident and prepared for her interview.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Who it's for: Women and non-binary people, 16+, unemployed, with a job interview coming up
Confirmed by 2 sources. From ALISS (opens in a new tab) and Smart Works Scotland (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
PCCS runs a Baby Bank for families in Edinburgh and the Lothians, making up bespoke Baby Packs with clothes, toys and essential equipment for babies and children up to two years old. Baby Bank packs need a referral — the site says packs are turned around for referrers and refers to a delivery service, so this is not somewhere to turn up for clothes. They also offer counselling around fertility, pregnancy, birth, loss and early parenthood, including for men and dads, and you can refer yourself for that.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Who it's for: Families with children under 2 in Edinburgh and the Lothians
From Their own website (opens in a new tab), checked 28 October 2026.
Second Dressing
Any woman who has been referred to Smart Works before her job interview can come back for a Second Dressing once she gets the job to receive a capsule working wardrobe. To be eligible for our Second Dressing Service, a client must be a women, aged 16+ and have previously been referred to either our Career Coaching or Interview Preparation services.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Who it's for: Existing Smart Works clients only — you must already have been referred to them
Confirmed by 2 sources. From ALISS (opens in a new tab) and Smart Works Scotland (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Sweet Dignity Clothing Library
The Community Recycling Project based in Penicuik is aimed at providing clothing for all ages and home and baby goods for those who need them. Walk-in service - free membership. Penicuik - Town Hall - Tuesdays and Wednesdays 11 am - 2 pm Mayfield - St. Luke's Cottage - Fridays 9 am - 12 pm.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 27 August 2026.
Tweed Togs
Provides bags of good-quality donated and laundered clothing for children from birth to 12 years across the Scottish Borders. A professional or voluntary organisation working with your family must make the referral - they do not take self-referrals or requests from family and friends - and clothing is delivered or dropped off to the referring service rather than collected by families. The website gives a unit address in Peebles but does not say a family can turn up there.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Who it's for: Children birth to 12 in the Scottish Borders; professional referral only
From Their own website (opens in a new tab), checked 26 October 2026.
Work, training and benefits
This Service supports adults of working age living in Midlothian and East Lothian, who have barriers to entering employment, in recovery from substance use or with current or past involvement with criminal justice, looking to progress into education, training and employment. Participants are met by a Caseworker in their village or town (or another place of safety).
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Building Brighter Futures is an eight week employability course in Edinburgh for young people who are interested in careers in construction, including carpentry and joinery. The Building Brighter Futures course is suitable for young people who are 16-21 years old and at stages 1 and 2 of the Strategic Skills Pipeline.
Who it's for: Ages 16–21, Edinburgh — an eight-week construction course
Confirmed by 2 sources. From ALISS (opens in a new tab) and Move On (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Career Coaching
During this service, our clients receive an hour-long, one-to-one coaching session with a HR or recruitment professional. Our volunteer coaches are experts and during the session will work with clients to identify tangible next steps to maximise their chance of securing an interview.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Who it's for: Women and non-binary people, 16+, unemployed or on a zero-hours contract
Confirmed by 2 sources. From ALISS (opens in a new tab) and Smart Works Scotland (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Whether sorting email, downloading mobile apps, or accessing social media, just pop into our cafe for assistance. (Lunch is free before 2 p.m.). No booking required. Laptops available for use, or bring your own device. Every Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. at The Broomhouse Hub.
You can just turn up. No referral or voucher needed.
Confirmed by 2 sources. From ALISS (opens in a new tab) and SPACE (opens in a new tab), checked 27 October 2026.
Into Work helps people with disabilities or long-term health conditions into work in the open labour market using the 5 Stage Supported Employment Model. This sounds very formal but it’s really not. Here’s how it works: Stage 1: Initial meeting Stage 2: Employment planning Stage 3: Job search Stage 4: Applying for jobs Stage 5: In-work support If you would like our help please get in touch.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026. Their own record hasn't been updated since 2019, so check before setting out.
Encompass
Encompass is an education, training and employability Service for people in Edinburgh living with complex needs. It helps people such as those in recovery from problematic substance use; those moving on from experience of being in conflict with the law; and those affected by homelessness. gain access to opportunities and, where appropriate, move into employment.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Sessions focus on supporting people to develop skills such as learning how to communicate better and understanding how to work well with others in a team. Practical skills include writing a CV or preparing for a job interview. Some sessions are even dedicated to helping members build confidence and recognise the importance of maintaining good health and wellbeing.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Gate
Our skills development service supports neurodivergent young adults 16+ to explore opportunities and learn new skills to help them navigate and find their place in the world. A structured programme offers a diverse range of activities and experiences, including vocational and accredited qualifications and work experience opportunities, supporting young adults to progress to further education, trai…
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 29 October 2026.
Life Programme
The Edge Life Programme is a specialist supported day service for young adults aged 20–35 who have learning disabilities, are autistic and/or have other additional support needs (ASN). Designed to build confidence, independence and real-world skills, it provides a holistic and vocational approach that supports each individual to move towards their positive destinations.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 29 October 2026.
This Service supports adults of working age living in Midlothian and East Lothian, in recovery from problematic substance use or with experience of being in conflict with the law, looking to progress into education, training and employment. Participants are met by a Caseworker in their village or town (or another place of safety).
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
We help young people, adults and families improve their life chances, through the development of skills for learning, life and work. We provide lots of different opportunities: youth work, adult learning, family learning, vocational training, employment support and work experience. All our activities are based in the communities of Midlothian.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Employability course offering a different qualification from our Employability Skills course. Employability Training is aimed at helping students enhance their employability skills and bolstering their confidence around seeking employment.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Talent Bank
The Talent Bank is a service that provides you with tailored and relevant advice that goes hand in hand with your own job requirements. The advantages of signing up for talent bank are: Specified job alerts Full CV critique with amendments Creation of a recyclable covering letter One to one interview advice Assistance with filling out application forms Mentoring service
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 27 August 2026. Their own record hasn't been updated since 2023, so check before setting out.
Recognising the importance of the transition from school to adulthood, the Edge Transitions Programme provides a specialist-supported day programme for school leavers aged 16–19 who have learning disabilities, are autistic and/or have other additional support needs (ASN). Our holistic, vocational approach builds confidence, independence and practical skills for adult life.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Wellbeing Onto Work (WOW!) is a 10-week project for young people aged 16 to 24 in South West Edinburgh. The project supports young people to build confidence, independence, and resilience while developing life and work skills. Over the course of 10 weeks, participants take part in engaging activities and group sessions in supportive community settings. WOW!
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Get help writing CVs, completing job applications, and finding opportunities. Or grab one of our available laptops, pop on your headphones, and plug away. One-to-one appointments also available; please contact to book a session. Every Tuesday from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at The Broomhouse Hub.
You can just turn up. No referral or voucher needed.
Confirmed by 2 sources. From ALISS (opens in a new tab) and SPACE (opens in a new tab), checked 27 October 2026.
Housing and homelessness
Citizen's Advice Drop in
Every Wednesday from 10am until 12noon, Haddington Citizens Advice Bureau are available for help and support with no appointment needed.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Crisis Skylight Edinburgh
Crisis Skylight Edinburgh offers housing advice, support and advocacy to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Covers Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian. You can drop in, or refer yourself by phone or email.
You can just turn up. No referral or voucher needed.
Who it's for: Over 16, experiencing or at immediate risk of homelessness
From Crisis (their own website) (opens in a new tab), checked 29 October 2026.
CrossReach Rankeillor
CrossReach Rankeillor offers support for those experiencing homelessness, including those in recovery from substance use, we provide temporary (move-on) accommodation in shared flats combined with support to help you determine and pursue your goals. Applying for your own home can take between 9 to 18 months.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Cunningham House
Cunningham House provides safe and supportive hostel accommodation for homeless adults in Edinburgh. Cunningham House has 23 rooms, 20 for men and 3 for women. It’s a supported hostel, which means you have your own room and self-catering facilities, but you can also access support while you get your life back on track. You can stay at Cunningham House initially for up to 2 years.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Dalkeith CAB offers free confidential, impartial, holistic advice and information. We can help with: Benefits Debt and money Housing Employment Energy Immigration Health Family and relationships Dalkeith CAB can provide information on your options, by phone, by email, at the CAB or in an outreach clinic or project in the community.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 31 October 2026.
Edinburgh Support Hub
Simon Community Scotland is the largest provider of homelessness services in Scotland. Our Hubs are first and foremost places of welcome every day. We create psychologically informed environments so that people can feel good and feel valued in our spaces. Our Edinburgh Support Hub acts as 'a one-stop shop' for a whole range of support.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Midlothian Council Welfare Rights Service can provide advice and oral representation at all social security tribunals and help appealing benefit decisions. Services offered include: • Welfare advice and benefits checks • Help with applying for benefits • Help in a crisis, e.g. if you have no money • Help with benefit appeals and tribunal representation • Basic debt and housing advice
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Rights Service
Our Rights Advisers offer direct, one-on-one advice, guiding clients on key welfare matters related to healthcare, benefits, pensions, employment, and housing. This support focuses on helping clients understand their rights and navigate Scotland’s social systems.
Ring and book first. You can't just turn up — but you don't need anyone to refer you, so ring them yourself and ask for an appointment.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Soul Food Edinburgh
With the distinct value that Soul Food is always more than a meal, our vision is centred around the power of a table. Holding to the fact that hospitality is something which is core to the very heart of Christianity, we hope that the ordinary setting of a dinner place becomes a space of life-changing relationship and community. By setting a table and sharing a meal, Soul Food hopes to provide a c…
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Opened in 2022, Peffermill provides long-term supported accommodation for nine men under 50 who have faced homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges. The service offers a shared kitchen, lounge, recreation area & garden, creating a sense of community and stability.
You need a referral first — turning up won't get you in. Ring them, or ask a support worker, health visitor or Citizens Advice to refer you.
Who it's for: Men under 50. Long-term supported housing — not somewhere to sleep tonight
Confirmed by 2 sources. From ALISS (opens in a new tab) and Rowan Alba (opens in a new tab), checked 26 October 2026.
Stramullion provides a safe and supportive home for ten women, as they rebuild their lives after experiencing homelessness and the impacts of this on their health. Two residents share an apartment, with shared kitchen and lounge. The service has an outdoor space which can offer a sense of community.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
Thorntree Street opened in 2004 and is dedicated to supporting men over the age of 50. The service provides nine self-contained apartments with communal kitchen space, daily meals are provided to ensure our tenants nutritional needs are met. Shared areas with entertainment, and a garden space offer the chance for social connections.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 30 October 2026.
The Access Place
We offer integrated services including housing, health and social work from one city centre location.We offer services to anyone experiencing homelessness who has additional needs. Please see the website for the full list of services offered and timings.
From ALISS (opens in a new tab), checked 29 October 2026.