Our Story
Since 1997, Absafe has supported people across the North-East of Scotland through creative, life-changing education. What began as a charity focused on personal safety has grown into a vibrant community organisation dedicated to wellbeing, resilience, and real-life learning.
Over the years, we’ve worked with thousands of individuals, from young people learning about life skills, to adults reconnecting through music, creativity, or peer-led workshops. We’ve listened to what our community needs and responded with programmes that are inclusive, practical, and impactful.
At the heart of Absafe is a simple belief: everyone deserves the tools, support, and confidence to feel safe, be well, and take part in their community. Whether it's learning how to stay safe online, understanding emotional health, or joining a local choir, our goal is to create spaces where people can grow together.
We’re proud of our roots, excited by our evolution, and driven by the belief that lasting change starts with community connection.
What We Do
Absafe delivers creative, community-led programmes that help people of all ages build confidence, develop life skills, and improve wellbeing.
We run sessions across schools, community venues, and from our base at Balgownie Lodge, which also houses the Absafe Creative Cooperative, a shared space where local groups come together to create, collaborate, and grow.
Our projects are as diverse as our community.
We cover:
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Life Skills & Resilience – workshops that help people navigate everyday challenges and build emotional strength
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Mental Wellbeing – activities designed to reduce stress, increase confidence, and support personal growth
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Cyber Safety & Scam Awareness – sessions that help people stay safe and informed in an increasingly digital world
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Vaping & Substance Awareness – age-appropriate discussions around risk-taking and decision-making
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Creative Programmes – including choirs, art sessions, and storytelling to promote expression and connection
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Employability Support – practical help with CVs, interviews, confidence-building, and digital skills
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Community Events – co-designed with local people to reflect what matters most to them
Our work is interactive, welcoming, and flexible—designed to meet people where they are.
Hear about all our most recent updates here!
Our Mission & Vision
Our Vision
A future where individuals and communities feel confident, connected, and safe.
Our Purpose
To advance wellbeing, resilience, and real-life learning through inclusive, creative education.
Our Mission
To reduce harm, inspire growth, and empower people of all ages to live well.
MEET THE TEAM
We are small but DETERMINED!
“Leading Absafe is about heart, community, and real impact. Every day we help people feel stronger and more connected, whether it’s through a wellbeing session or a moment of shared creativity. It’s inspiring to see how small actions lead to big change.”– Louise Richardson (CEO)
“Absafe showed me how powerful community work can be. I get to co-create projects that really matter, with people who care deeply about making a difference. No two days are the same, and that’s what I love most.”– Kairn McKee (Project Manager)
Help us on our mission!
We have volunteering roles to suit all interests and skill sets, whether you’d like to support with admin, social media, cleaning and organisation, or get involved in project delivery and planning.
Whether you're a people person, a behind-the-scenes organiser, or someone looking to try something new.
There’s a place for you at Absafe.