Spark - A place of possibilities where people thrive.

Dropping into your inbox every fortnight, Spark Stories will give you all the latest news and goings on at Spark in Craigshill, Livingston.

Have you been forwarded this email? Would you like to receive your own copy every fortnight? Sign up here.

This will ensure we are focused on delivering an exciting, engaging and diverse programme of activities for those around Craigshill and beyond. This simply means reviewing all the fantastic work that has gone on before and creating a practical document that outlines our key processes and responsibilities for the next 12 months. 

This will align with the strategic aspirations for growth and development that Spark has. In fact, it was both the strong foundations Spark has been built on and the exciting potential Jane sees for the future, which really made me want to be part of the team and I’m looking forward to bringing my skills and knowledge here and supporting Spark through the next phase.

During the last two years, as we dealt with adapting to very different lifestyles, I co-founded a charity focused on learning, wellbeing and collaboration. This was a great insight into some of the challenges faced by our communities but also how, across the country, third sector organisations and volunteers rose to meet them. 

Prior to that, I was the Business Improvement District Manager in Falkirk, a role that was both challenging and rewarding. Leading a small team, we delivered programmes individually and in partnership which helped ensure the town centre was safe, clean and friendly. My proudest moment was winning BID of the Year in 2018 against over 200 other BID’s, UK wide. People and place are my passion.

Whilst I love my work and sometimes forget to switch off, I also love a holiday! It’s fantastic to be able to travel again. I love packing my sunglasses and flip flops to jet off to the sun, but I also love spending time here, in Scotland. We live in a truly beautiful country, something I have appreciated more over the last couple of years. 

Finally, I’m a bit of a music geek. My brain seems to retain all sorts of useless information on songs, bands, artist etc. Anyone needing a team member for a pop quiz, I’m your lady. 

I'd love to say Hi, so please feel free to drop me a line. alex@sparkscot.com

We know that the rising cost of living is hitting our members hard, so we are thrilled to be able to remove the cost barrier of attending Spark.

Whilst a small charge will remain in place for those activities delivered with our partners, all other activities and groups will be free of charge to attend.

Spark is committed to promoting healthy well-being in Craigshill. We believe that there are 3 pillars to achieving this - Creativity. Body. Mind. 

We are excited to start some new groups this Spring that help shine a light on these core themes:

• Spark's Sewing Bee - put your nimble fingers to work.
• Walk with Maddy - a walking group led by Spark's resident hearing dog
• The Sign Choir - singing & signing for everyone.
• Reach for the Stars  - a mindfulness course

You can find more information and the full timetable of events on our Facebook Page.

Come along from 10am tomorrow, Saturday 2nd April.

Young, old and everybody in between is invited to enjoy some springtime fun. 

The Easter Bunny and Peter Rabbit will be there to meet and greet all who come to join in the planned activities, including an Easter Hunt, face painting and games.

Inspired by the impact we make; volunteers have spent hours creating handmade gifts and treats to raise funds for Spark to continue to operate its services. The funds will help to reduce social isolation and loneliness in the community.

There will be hot rolls, teas, coffee and home baking a plenty to enjoy on the day.

Join us if you can. You don’t want to miss the fantastic raffle and tombola prizes donated by our members. 

I'm very much looking forward to seeing all the smiling faces and I know that it will be a great way to welcome this joyful time of the year.

See you tomorrow.

Warmest,

Jane