Wednesday April 2nd 2025
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Luke Jackson
The future of First Step Community Project is under threat after East Lothian Council has cut over 60% of its funding. The community project, which has supported the local community for 35 years, provides services to families in Musselburgh, Wallyford and Whitecraig including childcare, parental support groups, counselling and a food pantry and clothing bank.
First Step Community Project has learned that their funding from East Lothian Council’s “One Council” has been drastically reduced for the upcoming year, following a previous cut in 2024. The significantly reduced funding also comes with restrictive stipulations, meaning the funding cannot be cover any core costs such as rent, electricity or existing staff salaries. First Step says this is not sustainable, and without immediate and direct actions, a lifeline that a huge number of local families rely upon will be unable to run.
MSP Midlothian North & Musselburgh, Colin Beattie commented, “I have long been an admirer of the fantastic work First Step Community Project do in my constituency, and I am devastated to learn that their future is now under threat. The positive impact they make on everyone who uses their services is unsurmountable and they would leave a huge gap in available support for some of the most vulnerable families in East Lothian should they be forced to close.
“I will do all I can to add my weight to their campaign and urge the community to get behind them too.”
First Step Community Project Chair, Rachel Wales said, “First Step really is a pillar of our community here in Musselburgh and the surrounding areas, with so many families relying on the work our community project does not only to care for their children but ultimately the entire family.
“I became chair to give back to an organisation that has been a life line to me. The thought of losing such an important resource is truly devastating and will undoubtedly negatively impact so many in our community. First Step has supported and championed local families for over 35 years, and I am confident that with the appropriate funds allocated to our project, we will continue to support families for a further 35 years and hopefully longer.”
A petition urging East Lothian Council to reconsider First Step’s allocated funding has been started and can be found at HERE.
There is to be an Emergency General meeting on Thursday 3 April at Musselburgh East Community Centre, Haddington Road, Musselburgh, EH21 8JJ. This will be a drop-in format between 5:30 and 7:30 pm.
Tweet Share on Facebook
