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Community hub reopens in Edinburgh

James Adams, Sarah Boyack MSP, Matt Stringer, Kirin Saeed cutting the pink ribbon at Hillside Crescent.

James Adams, Sarah Boyack MSP, Matt Stringer, Kirin Saeed cutting the pink ribbon.

RNIB Scotland has officially reopened its centre on Hillside Crescent in Edinburgh. The newly refurbished office offers a modern and accessible space for the blind and partially sighted community, volunteers, supporters and staff to use.

The Hillside office had temporarily closed for renovation in November 2023, although many of the charity’s services continued to operate throughout this period. The refurbishment has been part of the charity’s continued work to ensure its support and services are robust, future-facing and consistently meeting the needs of people with sight loss.

The facilities in Abbeyhill now include Café VI – a welcoming café serving the local community, a Product and Advice store offering accessible aids and equipment, and a multi-use community space which hosts various social, leisure and peer-support groups.

At the launch event on Thursday 14 August, we welcomed members of the blind and partially sighted community, volunteers, supporters, and staff. The ribbon was officially cut by Kirin Saeed, Chair of the RNIB Scotland Advisory Group, following speeches from James Adams, Director of RNIB Scotland; Matt Stringer, RNIB Chief Executive; and Sarah Boyack MSP.

Kirin Saeed says,

“Having an accessible space like this in the heart of Edinburgh makes a real difference. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee, getting advice on equipment, or meeting with others who share similar experiences, this hub brings people together and supports us in living independently. I can’t wait to meet new and old friends.”

Later in the day, a smaller, private gathering marked the naming of the new Sandra Wilson Boardroom, in memory of Sandra Wilson, former Chair of RNIB Scotland (2015–2021), who passed away in August 2024.

RNIB Scotland Director, James Adams, says,

“Thanks to Sandra’s leadership Scotland is a more accessible place for blind and partially sighted people than it otherwise would have been. Dedicating this space in her name is a small way of honouring her legacy.”

Matt Stringer, Chief Executive Officer of RNIB says,

“We’re delighted to open this fantastic new community facility in Edinburgh. It demonstrates RNIB’s ongoing commitment to delivering first-class services for blind and partially sighted people.

“As a charity, we believe the world should be accessible to everyone. This investment reflects our values and our continued determination to help build a more inclusive society.”

The reopening of RNIB Scotland, Hillside Crescent- a group of about 50 people outside the front door.