Mad Jammers Open Mic edinburgh

25/12/2025

25/12/2025

Merry Christmas everyone from us all at Mad Jam!!🎅❤️

Here is an illustration of the problem with the Golden Rule (to treat others the same way we want to be treated). The Golden Rule is well-intentioned, but it is short-sighted and out-dated.

The Platinum Rule, on the other hand: treating others the way THEY want to be treated, accounts for our differences, takes other people into consideration, and acknowledges that we don't all like or want the same things.

In this illustration, if the dog had followed the Golden Rule, he would have gifted the cat a bone or a chew toy. But, a mindful gift does NOT treat others the way we want to be treated, it invites us to remove our personal preferences from the equation altogether, and take others into consideration.

This isn't about gifts, cats, or dogs, of course, my intention is remind you (and myself) that making assumptions about other people based on our limited world view is narrow-minded and often wrong. Let's do the vulnerable and compassionate thing, remove ourselves from the center of the Universe, and put others there instead. 🙏

24/12/2025

Christmas Eve is a moment to pause and reflect - a quiet space at the end of a busy, often challenging year.

At the ALLIANCE, hope has always been at the heart of what we do. Not a naivety, but one rooted in people, communities, and the belief that change is possible when voices are heard and valued. In times when hate, division and negativity can feel loud, hope becomes a powerful act within itself.

As we approach 2026 (and the ALLIANCE’S 20 year anniversary!) I am proud of what has been achieved together over the years. I’m grateful for the people and organisations who continue to choose kindness, collaboration, and action over cynicism, conflict, and despair. This shows me every day that hope is an action, not just a feeling.

This Christmas Eve, my thanks go to our members, partners and colleagues across health, social care and the third sector, and to everyone whose lived experience continues to challenge us to do better. You are the reason the ALLIANCE exists, and the reason we believe so strongly in what comes next.

As we look towards the year ahead, my hope is that we continue to keep turning hope into action, together.

Wishing you rest and warmth this Christmas.

- From Sara Redmond, ALLIANCE Chief Officer

24/12/2025

Isn’t this fabulous!!!❤️

23/12/2025

Good morning, everyone. Kitty Johnstone, one of our regular contributors to Mad Jams, sent me this lovely ecard which she said I could share on our page. Happy Christmas!! Wishing all good things for you in 2026!! Love from us all at Mad Jam❤️

22/12/2025

The dark winter months can really take a toll on how we feel ❄️💛

Spending time outside, even for a short walk, can boost your mood, reduce stress, and help you feel more connected to the world around you. 🌿

Discover simple ways to get outdoors this winter and find out how Green Social Prescribing can help you access nature-based activities in your community: https://lght.ly/75j45cj

16/12/2025

Winter can feel tougher for many people, especially older adults spending more time on their own. LifeCare Edinburgh is helping make the colder months warmer with comforting meals, friendly visits and welcoming community activities.

As John, 77, says: “Meals on Wheels is kindness delivered to my door… I don’t feel isolated anymore, and I know they’re always there if I need them.”

From daily meal deliveries to creative workshops and social meet-ups, LifeCare is helping people stay connected all season long. 💛

Read John’s story and learn more through the link. 👇

https://lght.ly/2cmbghf

16/12/2025

Great stuff!!

Marion Findlay, Director of Services at Volunteer Edinburgh, had the pleasure of accompanying the Right Honourable Robert Altridge, Lord Provost and Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh on his recent visits to one of the recipients of the 2025 Inspiring Volunteer Awards.

Last week they went along to Prospect Bank School – what a fantastic place.
Thank you to the staff and pupils for their warm welcome and congratulations again to their star volunteer Heather. Her invaluable help and compassion are treasured by the whole school community.

Look out for details of next year’s Inspiring Volunteer Awards coming early in the new year.

16/12/2025

16/12/2025

Christmas can be a tricky time of year and if you or anyone you know needs some mental health support over the Christmas period, we've listed some organisations who offer someone to talk to:

- Breathing Space: Call: 0800 83 85 87
- Samaritans: Call: 116 123
- Cruse Scotland: Call: 0808 802 6161
- SHOUT: Text: 85258

Make sure to share this post for anyone who may need some support this festive season 💛

13/12/2025

Hi everyone. See you tonight if you can make it to the Christmas open mic from Mad Jam.. Huge thanks for all your support this year. Venue Augustine United Church, George 4th Bridge EH1 1EL. Doors open 5.40, performances from 6.20 - 9.30. See you soon. Kind wishes from the Mad Jam team😊

12/12/2025

We’re almost on the home straight to the big day 🎅🏼 The city is full of festive fun and our Street Assist volunteers will be out tonight and tomorrow from 10pm–4am.
If you’re out in the city, remember we’re here to help — offering first aid, support, and a safe place to regroup.