The University of Edinburgh and People Know How have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding, marking a new era of collaboration between the two organisations. Image People Know How & University of Edinburgh Memorandum of Understanding While the University and People Know How have worked together informally for several years, the memorandum sets out our shared commitment to explore cooperation on social innovation and support for people from all backgrounds. Under the agreement, The University of Edinburgh and People Know How will share expertise and explore the development of new projects and programs for the benefit of local communities relating to topics like digital inclusion and social entrepreneurship. Themes of strategic importance to both organisations are addressing digital and data exclusion; social innovation, collaboration with researchers in the area of Social Work; and volunteering. In the past, The University of Edinburgh has provided funding, expertise, and resources to support People Know How’s valuable work in the community, including placements provided for their Positive Transitions service for children, young people and families. We were able to provide funding for their Reconnect service supporting people with digital inclusion, positively impacting communities in Edinburgh and East Lothian. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the University donated IT equipment to People Know How contributing to their delivery of over 3,000 devices to the community. We also worked in collaboration with People Know How in 2021 to run Dear Lothian, a summer arts programme that invited young people from Edinburgh and East Lothian to explore their local area through the arts. And most recently, we have collaborated on a biodiversity project that aims to develop citizen scientists who can champion biodiversity locally. Additionally, the University of Edinburgh have supported People Know How as they work to leverage learning from their local projects to influence change on a national level by pledging to the organisation's Connectivity Now campaign and partnering on their Positive Transitions action-research project. A round table meeting to discuss next steps was held in January, and was attended by representatives from both organisations, including academic and professional services colleagues from the University. Partnerships like these are essential in ensuring everyone has access to the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today's rapidly changing world. We're incredibly proud to be working with People Know How. Lesley McAra, Assistant Principal Community Relations, University of Edinburgh People Know How's CEO echoed the sentiment: People Know How are delighted to be partnered with the University of Edinburgh, uniting both our organisations’ passions for collaboration, learning, research and support of local communities. This memorandum of understanding opens the door to countless exciting opportunities to maximise our impact and achieve positive change through social innovation. Glenn Liddall, Chief Executive, People Know How The Memorandum of Understanding is a positive development for both organisations that will allow them to join forces to support local communities across Scotland. Find out more People Know How University of Edinburgh Community Plan University of Edinburgh Social and Civic Responsibility Plan This article was published on 2024-07-22
