The Lord Provost Opens Our New Inspire…By Shop

Community Integrated Care was proud to welcome the Lord Provost of Aberdeen to officially open our charity’s newest Inspire…By shop in Aberdeen today (Thursday 11th December), alongside local colleagues and people we support. 

With three others already established in Inverurie, Stonehaven and Huntly, our charity’s Inspire…By shops are much more than a charity shop – they’re community hubs that provide meaningful roles for over 70 people with support needs, empowering them to build confidence, independence, and purpose.  

They were recently recognised nationally at the Great British Care Awards Scotland and awarded Care Innovator of the Year for ‘setting a new benchmark in innovative care.’  

Today’s grand opening of Inspire…By Aberdeen, brought together local people for a festive celebration – complete with seasonal treats, a visit from Father Christmas and a ribbon cutting carried out by the Lord Provost and a person we support, Maurice, who will begin work at the shop in the New Year.

Guests also had the opportunity to meet individuals whose lives have been transformed through working at one of our other Inspire…By shops, seeing firsthand the impact they have to local people and communities.

Katie, who works at Inspire…By in Inverurie, said, “I’ve been at Inspire…By since I  was 18, and it’s helped me so much to grow and gain confidence. From learning all the shop tasks to getting out in the community and meeting new friends, I feel proud of everything I can do now.” 

Sara Murphy, Managing Director at Community Integrated Care, said, “We’re absolutely thrilled to bring Inspire…By to the heart of Aberdeen. It’s so much more than a charity shop – it’s a place where people with care and support needs can learn new skills, grow in confidence, and gain real workplace experience. It’s such an innovative approach to support that truly reflects our values – enabling people to live their best lives possible.” 

“A huge thank you to the brilliant people who work on the shop floor and behind the scenes – they’re the heartbeat of our shops and their energy, creativity and dedication can be seen the moment you walk through the door. We were excited to welcome the community and the Lord Provost to see the amazing impact that his new shop will have on even more local people.” 

If you want to find out more about the Inspire…By shops and any opportunities available, contact information@c-i-c.co.uk