Some months remind us exactly why the work we do matters. This has been one of them.
At Murray's Initiative we have had so much to celebrate: major contract successes, the launch of a new counselling service for Glasgow, two colleagues marking thirty years of service, a joyful graduation ceremony and an outcome for our community that means a great deal to everyone who walks through our doors.
Each of these moments tells a part of our story. It is a story built on experience, dedication and partnership and on a lasting belief in the potential of every person to move forward and build a better future.
Celebrating Elevate Graduation
It was a privilege to welcome more than 200 people to the Elevate graduation ceremony in the City Chambers. Bailie Linda Pike joined us on behalf of the Lord Provost and offered a warm welcome to everyone gathered.
It was wonderful to see so many graduates celebrating alongside their families and loved ones. Over 80 awards were presented and behind every one of them is a person who showed courage, commitment and determination. What an achievement. We could not be prouder of each and every graduate.
Building on success: supporting people into employment
We are delighted to have secured significant contracts to continue delivering our Recovery Employability Service and our Young Persons Recovery Employability Service.
This means we can carry on supporting people affected by alcohol and drug use as they move forward in their recovery and take positive steps towards work. We know that employment is about so much more than finding a job. It can mean rebuilding confidence, developing new skills, finding purpose and creating routine. It can open doors that may once have felt out of reach.
For young people in particular the right support at the right time can make a lasting difference. It helps them recognise their strengths and explore their ambitions. It lets them build a future on their own terms.
We are grateful for the trust placed in us. These contracts are not simply about securing services. They are about making sure people continue to have the support, encouragement and opportunities they need to achieve their goals.
A new chapter for Glasgow: our Alcohol and Drug Counselling Service
We are also proud to have launched our Glasgow Alcohol and Drug Counselling Service, a new four-year contract and an exciting next chapter in our long-standing commitment to the people of this city.
For 60 years we have supported people in Glasgow to address their alcohol use through counselling. That history has taught us that every person's circumstances are different. It has taught us that recovery is rarely a straightforward journey. Above all it has taught us that compassionate person-centred support can change lives.
This new service builds on that foundation. It allows us to keep walking alongside people who want to explore their relationship with alcohol and make changes towards a healthier future. We look forward to doing so in a way that respects their individual experiences and their choices.
Sixty years of experience is something to be proud of. What matters most is what we continue to do with it.
Thirty years of dedication: a journey that began with volunteering
There was another very special reason to celebrate this month. Our wonderful colleagues Neil and Anne have each reached 30 years of service.
Thirty years is a remarkable achievement in itself. What makes it even more meaningful is that both Neil and Anne first came to Murray's Initiative as volunteers. They began by giving their time freely to support others and they have never stopped.
Their stories remind us that the commitment to making a difference often starts with a willingness to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Over three decades they have touched countless lives and become part of the fabric of our organisation. We are deeply grateful for everything they have given and continue to give.
Thank you Neil and Anne. It is an honour to celebrate this milestone with you.
Standing up for the people we serve
This month also brought an outcome that matters deeply to all of us. The application for an alcohol licence for the premises directly beneath our headquarters was refused by Glasgow's Licensing Board.
Our building at North Claremont Street is far more than an office. Each year we support around 8,000 people through counselling, employability, wellbeing and education services. Every day people walk through our doors at some of the most vulnerable points in their lives. They come seeking safety, hope and the chance to rebuild.
Alcohol dependence is a chronic and relapsing health condition. For many people in recovery the sight of an alcohol retailer or the easy availability of alcohol can trigger cravings and put hard-won progress at risk. We could not accept that anyone should have to pass an off-sales shop every time they came to a counselling session or a recovery group. For some people that would be more than uncomfortable. It could be devastating.
We also raised our concern that a licence would send a contradictory message. Glasgow City Council commissions services from us to reduce alcohol-related harm. Those services are delivered from this building. Alongside them we also host our Women's Service and our LGBTQ+ Health and Wellbeing Service. We argued that the application was incompatible with the licensing objectives of protecting public health and protecting vulnerable people from harm. We also pointed out that the area is already well served by licensed premises.
We are grateful that our concerns were heard. This outcome means the people who rely on us can continue to walk into a place that feels safe and supportive. It is a place that is focused on their future.
A month that reflects who we are
When we look back on this month what stands out is how closely each achievement connects to our purpose.
Our employability contracts mean people can keep turning recovery into opportunity. Our new counselling service builds on six decades of experience. Neil and Anne remind us of the people whose commitment has shaped who we are. The Elevate graduation showed us what is possible when people are given belief and support. The licensing outcome protects the safe space on which all of our work depends.
These are different achievements with one shared thread: our commitment to supporting people and strengthening communities. It is also a commitment to helping every person move forward.
None of it happens without the dedication of our staff and volunteers or the trust of our partners. It does not happen without the support of our communities. Above all it depends on the courage of the people who choose to work with us. To all of you we say a heartfelt thank you.
There is so much to look forward to and we are excited to build on this momentum.
Here's to celebrating our achievements and recognising the people behind them. Here's to continuing to make a difference together.