A look ahead to what’s on at The Welcoming this week…

Saturday 22 September, Creative Space
On Saturday 22nd from 1-3pm at Creative Space we’ll be using different artistic techniques to give shape to a Welcoming map of Edinburgh! Come along for some drawing, collage-making fun and the opportunity to learn the best places to see and visit in the city! All materials are provided, but you can bring any pictures you have you’d like to include! Free and all welcome

Saturday 22 September (10am – 12 noon), Sunday 23 September (11am – 1pm)
Digital Skills for Arabic Speakers
These classes are delivered in Arabic and English and are a great way to gain confidence with using computers for email, internet, shopping, banking and creating all kinds of documents. Spaces are limited so please call the Welcoming office on 346 8577 or email [email protected] to book your place.

Monday 24 September, Open Book Reading Group
Every Monday 10-12pm, 5th floor at The Welcoming
Our Open Book Reading Group is back! Join us on Monday morning to discover new authors and read together in a small welcoming group.


*Cancelled* Monday 24 September, Cycling for Newcomers

Last Monday of the month, meet at The Welcoming at 1pm
Join us for our monthly bike ride where we explore the beautiful cycle paths around the city. We will meet at The Welcoming at 1pm. The ride is usually a gentle pace, and we always stop for juice and snacks along the way. If you would like to borrow a bike for this trip please email [email protected]

Tuesday 25 September, Home Energy Advice Session
1st floor at The Welcoming, 12-1pm
Drop in for free advice on how to set up your bills, use energy more efficiently or sort out issues with energy suppliers.

Tuesday 25 September, Gym & Swim Session
3-5pm, Leith Victoria Gym & Swimming Pool
Our weekly gym and swim session has a new day! We will meet at Leith Victoria at 3pm (there will not be a meeting point at The Welcoming), for our workout session! Join us to use the gym, or have a relaxing swim, for just £1.

Tuesday 25 September, Games Night
Every Tuesday, 5-7pm, 5th floor at The Welcoming
Join us for a game for our new Tuesday night Games Night! We have a variety of games available including table tennis, pool, chess and a variety of board games.
We are also looking for more volunteers for our weekly games night. If you are interested in helping us out with the session please get in touch with Caitlin for more info ([email protected])

Wednesday 26 September, Scotland for Newcomers
Meet at The Welcoming at 3pm, or 3.45pm at EH1 1TG
What were your favourite toys and games when you were a child? Come and visit the Museum of Childhood on Wednesday and see if you can find them!

Wednesday 26 September, Jogging Group
6pm at The Welcoming
Are you a keen runner or want to get started? Join us for a gentle run from The Welcoming. New joggers are always welcome, please email [email protected] first to let her know you’re coming and to indicate your level.

Friday 28 September, Welcoming Lunch
12.15-1.15, 1st floor at The Welcoming
On Friday 28th MP Joanna Cherry will join us at our Welcoming Lunch. If you want to speak with her or ask questions (like, what does a Member of Parliament actually do?) this will be a wonderful and relaxed opportunity to do so! Expect our usual selection of fresh salads and sandwiches from Pret a Manger and our trademark great chat.

Friday 28 September, Conversation Cafe
1.30-3.30pm, 1st floor at The Welcoming
Join us for our weekly Conversation Cafe! This is a chance to meet new people, and chat with local volunteers. Each week we will have a new topic for activities and discussion.

New Scots Ceilidh, 29th September, 8.30pm
Join the amazing ScienceCeilidh band for a free community ceilidh celebrating the diverse cultures and research of the people living in Scotland. All are welcome, absolutely no dance or research experience required. Online reservation recommended – book your place via Eventbrite.

What’s on at The Welcoming 22nd-28th September