2024 Annual Report
2024 has been a year of growth, connection, and transformation at The High Backs. Together with our volunteers, partners, and local families, we have created a space that is warm, welcoming, and full of life. This is our first official annual report as a registered Scottish charity - and we are proud to share it.
Community Engagement & Development
In 2024 we took significant steps to grow our community presence and lay the foundations for long-term sustainability.
-
We launched The High Backs Facebook page to connect with more local families.
-
We hosted local resident meetings to consult on what is missing in Burnhill and how we can respond positively.
-
We gave the Hideout Hut a full makeover - now a cosy, inviting space for activities and gatherings.
-
We began our SCIO journey in February 2024, laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability.
-
We hosted info days to invite community members to join our new Board of Trustees.
Nature & Wellbeing
The natural environment is at the heart of everything we do at The High Backs - and in 2024 we deepened that connection in some memorable ways.
-
We created a frog pond with help from young people - offering frogs a safe home at The High Backs. We celebrated in April when our first frog family moved in.
-
We partnered with a local primary school for Earth Day activities.
-
We took a wellbeing trip to the Salt Caves and another to Emirates Spa, promoting relaxation and self-care.
-
Burnhill MENding Minds completed drainage works - allowing us to open year round for the first time.
Winter Kindness
As the days got shorter, The High Backs made sure no one in Burnhill felt forgotten.
-
We distributed over 50 Winter Care Packs to vulnerable residents in the local area.
-
We treated 15 senior residents to a festive Christmas lunch - good food, good company, and a warm welcome.
Creativity & Celebration
Joy is serious work at The High Backs - and 2024 was full of it.
-
We ran a logo competition to design a fresh identity for The High Backs - putting creativity in the hands of the community.
-
We partnered with Glencairn Football Club for a vibrant community summer event.
-
We hosted our Summer Picnic, welcoming over 250 attendees for food, fun, and connection.
-
We organised a flower arranging class for 15 residents.
-
We delivered four free seasonal events - Easter, Summer, Halloween, and Christmas.
-
We took families on a trip to Ayr and continued our tradition of a free annual pantomime visit.
Learning & Support
The High Backs is a place where people grow - not just plants, but skills, confidence, and connections.
-
We offered 12 places on a Community Development course in partnership with Toryglen Community Base.
-
We launched a new Men's Group - Burnhill MENding Minds - supported through Participatory Budgeting by South Lanarkshire Council.
-
We formed a Knitting Group led by Margaret, bringing warmth and creativity to our weekly sessions.
-
We partnered with Healthy n Happy to provide weekly energy advice sessions - helping residents reduce bills and keep warm through winter.
-
We welcomed the South Lanarkshire Council shredding truck to help residents safely dispose of confidential documents.
Youth Leadership & Recognition
Young people have been at the heart of The High Backs from the very beginning - and in 2024 they stepped into the spotlight.
-
Our young people delivered a Youth Activism presentation to community groups, Police Scotland, South Lanarkshire Council's Chief Executive, and MP Michael Shanks.
-
Volunteers were invited to the Scottish Parliament for the National Lottery Community Event.
-
We attended ASDA's Christmas lunch to celebrate our incredible young people.
A Message from Our Coordinator
"We've had a truly successful year - and it's all thanks to our incredible volunteers. Your time, care, and commitment have transformed The High Backs into a space of hope, joy, and belonging. Without you, there would be no community. The impact you've made on people's daily lives is beyond words.
Here's to another year of growth, warmth, and togetherness."
Elizabeth McDonald - Founder & Project Coordinator, The High Backs
Thank you
"Change begins where community begins, on our doorstep."
It is with immense pride we present our first official annual report as The High Backs, a charity formed in 2024. We wish to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to every person who has played a role in the development of The High Backs. We cannot express our gratitude enough.
The High Backs Board of Trustees
→ Find out more about supporting The High Backs on our Thank You page.