Community

Power of Partnership

Our Power of Partnership initiative was developed by Rowan Alba in conjunction with Edinburgh Headway and Penumbra Milestone, to foster collaborative and positive partnerships within Edinburgh’s health and social care communities. The goal is to improve the lives of marginalised people across the city, particularly those who have experienced Alcohol Related Brain Damage (ARBD).

While many organisations operate within the health and social care sector, this initiative provides a platform for them to learn from one another, understand available services, and build stronger referral pathways. By working together, we can ensure that individuals receive the right support, at the right time, from the right service within the network.

Two sessions of this impactful event have taken place, hosted and supported by the National Galleries of Scotland. Facilitated by Sam Rutherford, the sessions used art-based techniques to build trust and spark meaningful conversations among attendees.

Participating organisations

The response was overwhelmingly positive, with participants leaving feeling “rekindled enthusiasm and hope regarding what we hope to achieve” and appreciating the informal, collaborative atmosphere: “Great to network like this – feels less corporate.”

We are hugely grateful to the National Galleries of Scotland, one of our key supporters, who truly understand the power of art in bringing people together and fostering genuine community and connection. Whether through Power of Partnerships or our Community Art Group, their commitment to providing rich and creative spaces plays a vital role in supporting our service and communities.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of Power of Partnerships, having experienced the value of working together with Rowan Alba and Penumbra Milestone. There is such demand for services that by collaborating, supporting each other, and adding value to existing provision, we can have a greater impact for more people.”

Siobhan McConnachie

Head of Learning & Engagement, National Galleries of Scotland
Read our Power of Partnership report (PDF opens in a new window)

Our community projects

Self Management

Events, tools and support for our community

Disposable film camera and leaflet distributed to our community

Community Photovoice

Giving our community a voice through photography

Blue Light Training

Specialist training for the Bar Trade

Community and Residential Dependency Support

Homelessness prevention through one-to-one volunteering

Community Art Group

Creative group created in partnership with the National Galleries of Scotland

Power of Partnership

Positive partnerships created with Edinburgh Headway and Penumbra Milestone