Who We Are

 Organisation

Established in 1992 Firsthand Lothian aims to increase resiliency and improve well-being of vulnerable, disadvantaged families and families with a child or children with a disability. Delivered 1:1  in the family’s local community we provide support and regular respite for parents, children and families affected by having a child with a disability from birth to 16 years of age.

We are a charity and a company limited by guarantee. 

We are committed to being able to develop and deliver a range of projects which meet the needs of  both children and parent / carers to meet the increasing level of enquiries we receive  for local community  based support across Edinburgh.

We are currently in receipt of Trust funding from Better Breaks, RSMcDonald and The Community Fund which enables us to work 1:1 with children who have a diagnosed disability in their  local community on a regular, usually weekly,  basis.

We have secured funding from a range of funders, including the Community Fund  ( National Lottery)  and Baillie Gifford to enable us to further develop our much needed Time 4 Mum project, delivered by volunteers. 

In order to offer a wider range of services that meets the needs of children, young people and families who are vulnerable and / or disadvantaged we are continuing to seek funding from Trusts and Grants and generate income through fundraising activities and individual donations. 

Our Office-based Staff Team

 Board of Directors

We are currently recruiting general Board Members and are particularly interested in people who have experience of being a parent of young children or children with additional support needs.  See the Role Description and commitment required. Feel free to phone or email should you require any further information. 

Management Committee details as at August 2026