Last week, we hosted our Big Blether, a chance for members from across the network to connect, reflect, and look ahead. With familiar faces and new ones in the room, the evening was a celebration of what we’ve achieved and an invitation to shape what’s next. We felt it was a fantastic evening!
After catching up with new and old friends, we kicked things off with our manager, Abi, looking back at a busy first year of Midlothian Climate Action Hub. From our first themed gatherings to the MCAN Canopy at Vogrie Pogrie, from the start of our first collaborative project on Wildlife Corridors to the distribution of our Seedcorn Grants, it was heartening to recognise just how much we’ve accomplished together.
A highlight of the evening was a fond goodbye (but not farewell!) to our Chair, Julian, who is stepping down from the role but will remain an active part of the network. Through an exploration of meaningful objects and personal anecdotes, Julian shared a heartfelt speech about community-driven action and the power we have when we work together.
But the Big blether was not just looking backwards at the year behind us.
We also officially launched our new Thematic Circles — Biodiversity, Food, Energy & Heat, and Reuse, Share & Repair.
These circles will offer dedicated spaces for members to collaborate, develop projects and drive action in issues most important to them. During a workshop session, participants joined the circles they felt most passionate about and shared their hopes and ideas for what these groups could achieve moving forward. Some of these have just had their first meeting, while other will have their first meetings very soon. If you’re interested in joining please keep an eye out on our events page or social media. Alternatively, feel free to send us an email!
As always, connection was at the heart of the gathering. Over a delicious mean provided by Penicuik Storehouse and with the amazing climate art by the talented Dalkeith Arts as a backdrop, we chatted, shared stories, and made plans. The energy in the room was full of warmth, ideas and shared purpose.
The Big Blether was a reminder that we are part of something bigger, a growing network of groups across Midlothian committed to climate justice, sustainability, and community resilience. Whether you’re just joining us or have been involved from the start, there’s a place for you here and the team at the Hub is delighted to be working with you.
If you’d like to get involved in one of the Thematic Circles or find out more about what’s coming up next, please get in touch.
Here’s to the next chapter—together.
