The Junction Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary (17th of January 2025)
Cara Spence Director of The Junction said:
“Today marks the beginning of The Junction’s birthday year. We will be taking time to celebrate, reflect on the progress, and consider the challenges ahead.”
“The Junction has made significant achievements over the past 20 years, and I would personally like to thank all the young people, volunteers (both past and present), partners and of course our funders who have supported us”.
The Junction was established on the 17th of January 2005 and supports young people’s health and wellbeing. Last year they worked with more than 2,800 young people.
Data shows that as a result of the service 95% of young people were being better able to cope with difficult emotions such as anger, sadness and anxiety; and 75% of young people made tangible improvements to their health and wellbeing for example, improvements in sleep habits, diet, physical activity and a reduction in risk-taking behaviour and substance use.
Young people also spoke candidly about The Junction’s impact in their most recent Annual Report, statements included:
“If I didn’t have counselling when I did, I don’t know if I would still be alive.”
“I’m in such a different place than when I started this, I feel like I can manage my anxiety.”
“Being able to talk openly with other people in the drop-in stops me feeling alone – I realise other people are struggling too.”
Train Spotting Author, Irvine Welsh has been the Charities Patron since 2012. He remains a strong advocate for The Charity. He stated:
“The Junction is a great charity that deserves to be supported because it does something magnificent for the young people of the area. Young people Edinburgh need support ‘now more than ever’. Their role is absolutely essential. I’m so privileged to be a patron.”
The Junction is planning on delivering events throughout the year starting with a celebration for young people on the 17th of January.