After six years with Waverley Care, Scotland’s leading HIV and Hepatitis C charity, we reflect with immense pride on what has been an extraordinary journey of collaboration and impact. 

Since 2019, our partnership has been rooted in a shared commitment to tackling health inequalities, reducing stigma, and supporting people living with or affected by HIV and Hepatitis C. Waverley Care’s work – from prevention and education to testing and support – has been pivotal in Scotland’s ambition to achieve zero new HIV transmissions by 2030. Their dedication to creating a Scotland where everyone can live well, free from stigma, has inspired us every step of the way.

Fundraising that made a real difference

Together, our team of 14 has raised an incredible £50,000 thanks to the creativity and enthusiasm of our team. Our fundraising efforts have included:

  • Epic challenges: the team has racked up over 4,500 miles across challenges including Hadrian’s Wall and the Coast and Castles route.
  • Community events: we’ve shaken buckets at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, crafted thousands of ribbons for World AIDS Day, and helped transform the gardens annually at Milestone House into a welcoming space for residents.
  • Team and individual initiatives: virtual Kiltwalks during lockdown, sweepstakes, “Best Foot Forward” step challenge and sponsorship of the Glasgow Charity Pickleball Festival. 

These activities weren’t just about raising money; they were about raising awareness, building connections, and demonstrating that every mile walked or cycled, makes a difference.

Grant Sugden, Chief Executive at Waverley Care:

We are incredibly grateful for the fundraising support from Criterion. As Scotland’s leading HIV and hepatitis C charity, our mission is to ensure that no one feels isolated and that everyone can live well, free from stigma and supported with dignity.

Support from committed partners like Criterion is vital to our work. Since 2019, their incredible efforts have helped us provide life-changing services, increase access to testing and prevention, and challenge the harmful misconceptions that still surround blood-borne viruses. Through their fundraising, volunteering, and match funding, Criterion has made a real and lasting impact on communities across Scotland.

 

We are hugely grateful to everyone at Criterion, from those taking on major physical challenges like the 176-mile cycle challenge to those volunteering their time at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Thank you for your generosity, energy, and commitment to Waverley Care and the people we support.

Championing a stigma-free Scotland

The funds raised have supported Waverley Care’s life-changing services: from peer mentoring and counselling to outreach programmes and HIV testing. These services empower individuals, challenge stigma, and help Scotland move closer to its #GetToZero goal. Our partnership has not only contributed financially but has amplified Waverley Care’s voice and mission through shared communications and advocacy. Thank you to Waverley Care for its dedication and collaboration throughout this remarkable journey.

Looking ahead 

As we celebrate this milestone, we also mark the conclusion of our six-year partnership with Waverley Care. This incredible collaboration has achieved so much, and now we’re evolving our approach to focus on new ways of creating impact. While this chapter closes, the lessons and successes we’ve shared will continue to inspire us, and we remain committed to championing Waverley Care’s mission in the future.

Billy Burnside, Managing Director: 

Waverley Care has been an exceptional partner. Their openness and unwavering commitment have made this collaboration truly special. We’re proud to have stood alongside them in the fight against HIV stigma and health inequalities. While this chapter closes, the impact of our shared efforts will endure, and we look forward to continuing to champion their cause in new ways.