2026-04-10T14:47:19+00:00

AGM celebrates a year of support and transformation

Friends of Roxburghe House Grampian held its 47th annual general meeting last week (Wednesday) at the Palm Court Hotel in Aberdeen.

Chairman Barbara Manson welcomed attendees and shared a comprehensive review of the charity’s vital work throughout 2025, highlighting the continued impact of the organisation on patient care and facility improvements.

Roxburghe House remained a busy hub of specialist care over the past year. With 21 in-patient beds and a dedicated outpatient facility, the unit saw 475 in-patient admissions and 318 out-patient appointments. The specialist advice line also proved to be a critical resource, handling 1,457 calls.

The charity continues to play a fundamental role in enhancing the patient experience. This includes funding the full cost of writer-in-residence Emily, and half the costs for the two artists-in-residence, Neil and Donna. Their work is central to the day unit's 12-week programme, where 90% of out-patients engage with art and writing activities.

Transforming the environment

2025 was a landmark year for refurbishments. Friends funded a major upgrade of the day unit, which included new flooring, lighting and electrical fittings. Significant joinery work refreshed the kitchen and storage areas, while washrooms were modernised with new accessible fittings.

In October, attention turned to the children’s play area. The space was transformed with a wall mural, new flooring and a range of new toys and books. A notable addition was the gaming trolley funded through The Rocking Gaming Charity. This has already made a profound difference, with the team saying it provides a vital positive distraction for longer-stay patients.

Beyond the walls of the unit, the charity funded two team-building days for the nursing staff at Lochter Activity Centre. Nurses enjoyed a well-deserved break takign part in climbing, shooting, and segway courses, allowing them to reconnect away from the clinical environment.

Looking ahead

Treasurer Ian Mackie presented the organisation’s accounts and outlined an inspiring vision for the coming year. Key projects include:

the sanctuary space: a sensitive refurbishment of the chapel into an inclusive sanctuary for reflection, with a new stained-glass feature.
garden enhancements: the introduction of “rubbing posts” for interactive tours and a virtual map designed for use with therapeutic VR headsets, making sure those unable to go outside can still enjoy the gardens.
digital connectivity: an upgraded patient entertainment system through Hospedia to provide better on-demand content.

The meeting also featured guest speakers Ivan Houston of Scholes CA, Lynne Lamont from RBC Brewin Dolphin, and Sally Thomson, director of Grampian Hospitals Art Trust.

Board appointments and farewells

The board is welcoming two new trustees. Marjorie Grant, a familiar face at the coffee bar, and Flora Watson, a former Senior Charge Nurse and Macmillan Nurse Consultant at Roxburghe House, both bring invaluable experience to their roles.

After a long period of dedicated service, Fiona Leslie has stepped down as a trustee.

Barbara Manson paid a warm tribute to her, saying: “She has been frankly unbelievable in the help she has offered Friends. She is hugely welcoming, empathetic to everyone and played a huge part in our involvement with the Kiltwalk and Celebrate Aberdeen.

“We thank her for everything she’s done. She will be sorely missed on the board, though we look forward to seeing her as she continues with her volunteer work.”

The meeting also paused to remember former treasurer Peter Clark (pictured below), who passed away in December. His significant contributions to the charity were marked with a personal tribute from Ian Mackie, acknowledging the legacy of service he left behind.

- Main picture shows the Friends board of trustees: seated from left, Ryan Fox, Barbara Manson, Ian Mackie. Standing from left, Fiona Leslie, Sam Harris, Marjorie Grant, Flora Watson and Anne Brown

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