Tillydrone in Focus
We shine a light on the issues that matter most to people in the community.
Episode 3
In this episode we spend time with the pupils and staff of St Machar Academy as host Angela Milne Daniel asks whether where, and how we grow up impacts on the education, aspirations and futures of young people. We hear about the innovative approaches the school is taking to level the playing field. One example takes us beyond the classroom to Hayfield Riding Stables – a short bus ride from the school but worlds away from a typical lesson. Here we see how partnerships with local businesses, through The Wood Foundation, help to open up opportunities and provide experiences that boost confidence and self belief. We also hear about the school’s embedded mentoring programme and speak to Anna Johnston from the University of Aberdeen’s Widening Access team, along with student Kirsten, as they reflect on the challenges young people from regeneration areas face when considering higher education and the work being done to support them. “I didn’t think I’d ever make it to College or Uni. Not that I didn’t think I was capable – I just didn’t feel like it was for me. It felt very middle class. Growing up I didn’t know anyone who had been to University – my mum worked in the NHS and my dad was a lorry driver”.
Episode 2
In Episode 1 we explored the daily struggles many residents face in accessing food, as well as highlighting the work of local services that support the community. In this episode, host Angela Milne Daniel hears Allison’s story. “I’ve never had to decide whether to heat or eat – I’ve just had to cut down on my food and my gas. I use a pressure cooker to cut down on electricity use. I’ve always managed to have some heat but if it gets too cold, I just go to my bed”. Allison has always had daily access to food, but that doesn’t mean it’s been easy. Over the years she has turned to food banks and community pantries to help make ends meet. We join one of these pantries – the Cfine Community Pantry – on its fortnightly visit to Tillydrone. We also hear from Aberdeen University about the link between food insecurity and obesity and end by speaking with Tillydrone’s local Councillor, Alex McLellan, to reflect on the key issues raised across both episodes and consider what more can be done to ensure everyone has access to affordable, healthy food.
Episode 1
In this episode we highlight some of the barriers around access to food. Host Angela Milne Daniel meets Frankie, one of many people not just in Tillydrone but across Scotland, where recent Scottish Government statistics reveal that 16% of the population live in households with marginal, low, or very low food security. “I won’t eat until 9pm tonight. I last ate at 2 o’clock this morning. I’ve not got anything. I still feel full as my stomach is that shrunk”. Frankie shared his story in the hope that by speaking out he would highlight some of the support available in his community for others facing similar struggles. We visit two of these services helping residents. At the Tillydrone Community Flat, Development Worker Fiona Young tells us about the support they provide to people facing poverty – not just food, but hope and dignity for people like Frankie. And a short walk away at All Life Chances, Manager Angie Johnston, along with staff and parents, speaks candidly about the everyday challenges to accessing affordable, healthy food in the area.