Heritage VSA

Showcasing our history in social care since 1870

As part of marking its 150th anniversary in 2020, VSA was awarded a grant from The National Heritage Lottery fund to deliver a project showcasing the history of social care in Aberdeen since 1870. VSA are incredibly grateful to The National Heritage Lottery fund for supporting this exciting opportunity to showcase social care through the years.

At the heart of the project are 150 stories which were brought together from various archives across the city to explore the heritage of changing definitions of care, the way systems of care were organised and delivered, how understandings of welfare were interpreted historically, who cared for who and how this has changed over the years.

Woven through the rich tapestry of these stories are the threads of humanity’s resilience, courage, hope, compassion and kindness. A lasting legacy of the VSA’s enduring and continued support of vulnerable people living in our communities.

With such a strong focus on community throughout its history, VSA wants to strengthen and preserve this ethos by inviting the people of Aberdeen to play a collaborative role in this project too, through oral history, public art, crafting, performance pieces, developing a walking tour, a schools toolkit and exhibition.

Volunteers have been at the very heart of the VSA’s work since its inception. And this project is no different. Volunteer heritage ambassadors are making this project possible by generously donating their time, expertise and skills. Just as they did so 150 years ago.