Exploring Future Careers with Skills Development Scotland 🎓
This Scottish Careers Week, we were joined by Dave and Gordon from Skills Development Scotland for a hands-on session all about drones and the growing careers connected to them.
The workshop showed how drones are becoming an everyday tool in the world of work – from surveying building sites to emerging uses in delivery services. It was a brilliant way for the pupils in our Sensational Learning Centre to see how new technology is opening up real job opportunities right here in Scotland. 💡
Sessions like these are incredibly valuable, giving pupils a chance to explore how industries are evolving and discover the exciting paths their skills and talents could lead them down in the future. A big thank you to Dave and Gordon for visiting us! 😄
#ScottishCareersWeek #SkillsDevelopment #FutureCareers
Celebrating #WorldKindnessDay in Vibe 🌍
The young people in Vibe recently spent some time thinking about what kindness really means – and how we can show it to others, whether it’s a friend, a stranger, or even someone we find it tricky to get along with.
They came up with some wonderful ideas and shared touching stories about times they’ve given or received kindness. They also took a moment to recognise the small, everyday gestures that can make a big difference. 🥰
To bring their ideas to life, the group visited Dunelm to take part in the Festive Tree of Kindness. They chose two tags – one for a 12-year-old boy and another for an 89-year-old woman – and carefully picked out thoughtful gifts, which they’ll soon return for delivery. 🎁
It’s a great reminder of what World Kindness Day is really about – connecting with others, spreading joy and showing that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. ❤️
Kindness isn`t just good for others – it`s good for you too! 🥰
The pupils in our Sensational Learning Centre are putting this idea into practice through their new Kindness Post Box initiative, launched in the lead-up to #WorldKindnessDay. 🌍
Each pupil has the opportunity to drop a message of kindness to someone else – a simple “thank you”, a note of encouragement, or a kind act they’ve noticed or performed. 📝
The aim is to give pupils a chance to pause and notice kindness – both the kindness they receive and the kindness they show to others. Writing a message helps them reflect on how their actions make a difference, and builds confidence by encouraging them to reach out in positive ways. It’s also a gentle reminder that kindness isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we do, every day, in small but meaningful ways. ❤️
It`s Scottish Careers Week! 🧑🏫🧑⚕️🧑🚀🧑🚒
This week we’re celebrating the theme #ShapeTheFuture – and for us, that means helping neurodivergent people create futures full of possibility.
At The Donaldson Trust, we support neurodivergent children, young people, and adults across our services to develop the skills, confidence, and independence they need to thrive. Across our services, we provide hands-on learning opportunities and life skills development – all designed to help each individual explore their interests, talents, and potential.
Every step we take with the people we support is about empowerment and choice: shaping a future where their goals are within reach, their achievements are celebrated, and their voices are heard. 📣
This Scottish Careers Week, we’re proud to stand alongside the individuals we support as they take steps toward meaningful work, learning, and independence – shaping futures that are full of opportunity.
🔗 Learn more about our services on our website, click the link in our bio.
#ScottishCareersWeek #ShapeTheFuture #NeurodiversitySupport
We are marking Trustees Week 2025 by celebrating the incredible people who help guide and shape The Donaldson Trust — our Board of Trustees. 👏
Today, we were delighted to host our Trustees Day on campus, bringing together our Trustees, leadership team, and colleagues to connect, share learning, and reflect on the impact of their collective work.
Our Trustees play a vital role in supporting The Donaldson Trust’s mission and direction. Their experience and insight help us continue to grow and develop as the National Body for Neurodiversity.
We are incredibly grateful for their contributions and the powerful impact they have in driving our mission forward. ✅
#TrusteesWeek
It’s #TalkMoneyWeek! 💬💸
This week is all about encouraging open conversations about money — because talking about money isn’t always easy.
For many neurodivergent people, managing money can feel overwhelming. Complex forms, financial jargon and complicated systems can make it harder to stay on top of things. Yet, feeling confident about money is key to building independence and resilience. 👏
That’s why this year’s theme, Start the Conversation, is so important. Whether it’s chatting with a friend about budgeting, asking a colleague for advice, or seeking support from a financial professional — starting the conversation can make a real difference.
By building money conversations into our everyday lives, we can help everyone feel more empowered and supported when it comes to their finances. 😄
This Talk Money Week, let’s make sure everyone feels able to #StartTheConversation.
🔗 For tips, tools, and free guidance to help you or someone you support manage money more confidently, visit: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en
Today we’re celebrating Louise, our Head of Connect, for 5 incredible years at The Donaldson Trust! 🥰
Louise first joined the Trust as our Safeguarding and Practice Lead, where she played a key role in strengthening our approach to creating safe, supportive environments for everyone across our services. Her work helped shape the foundations of the inclusive culture we’re so proud of today.
Now, as Head of Connect, Louise leads our neurodiversity training, consultancy and advice service — supporting organisations to build their understanding of neurodiversity and create spaces where everyone can thrive. 👏
Under her leadership, Connect has grown into a trusted source of insight and expertise, helping others take meaningful steps towards neuro-inclusion in the workplace and beyond.
Thank you, Louise, for everything you’ve brought to the Trust over the past five years. Your drive to make a difference continues to inspire us all. 🥳
As Bonfire Night approaches, many of us look forward to the sparkle of fireworks, the glow of bonfires, and the sense of togetherness that comes with community celebrations. But for some neurodivergent people, this time of year can be far from enjoyable.
The loud bangs, flashing lights, and unpredictability of fireworks can be distressing and overwhelming for those with sensory sensitivities. Many neurodivergent adults – and parents of neurodivergent children – choose not to celebrate at all because the experience can trigger stress, anxiety, and discomfort.
At The Donaldson Trust, we believe that celebration should never come at the expense of someone else’s wellbeing. That’s why we’re proud to join the Fireworks Safety Campaign by the Scottish Government and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, encouraging everyone to be mindful, kind, and considerate during Bonfire Night.
By choosing quieter fireworks, attending organised displays, or letting neighbours know before setting any off, we can help make the night a little brighter – and safer – for everyone.
Find more fireworks safety advice here 👉 bit.ly/FireworkSafety2025
#BonfireNight #FireworksSafety
