Guide Dogs Scotland: 'Without the community, it wouldn't be possible'

Staff at Scotland’s first guide dog training centre have said their work would not be possible without community support as it celebrates 60 years.

The charity’s original training centre in Forfar – the first in Scotland – opened in 1965 on Old Dundee Road, officially unveiled by Princess Alexandra. Before this, people with sight loss had to travel to Leamington Spa centre in England to be partnered with a dog.

The facility has seen thousands of life-changing partnerships created since its launch, with over 17,000 volunteers helping pair dogs with the people who need them.

Volunteer Gemma Finlay told STV News: “It’s amazing. If it wasn’t for the support of the local community and volunteers, we couldn’t have done this. It wouldn’t have been possible.

“It’s a celebration of what we’ve achieved and recognition of the amazing community that support us.”

Around 1,700 attended the Forfar Fun Day at the charity’s Orchardbank Business Park hub on Saturday, September 20.

John says having a guide dog has 'enriched' his life — John says having a guide dog has ‘enriched’ his life STV News

Author and campaigner Jon Attenborough, 36, from Perth, goes everywhere with his Labrador Sam. He says the difference has been life-changing.

“It enriches my life, gives me confidence and independence to go out on my own. Before, I relied on my family if I wanted to go somewhere or do simple things like shopping.

“Now, I can go to the supermarket and do things myself rather than having to wait for other people. It’s given me a whole new lease of life.”

Jon said the matching process is tailored to the individual’s health and lifestyle, with regular check-ins from volunteers. Owners also take part in residential training before getting the dog to help them build their relationship.

“The charity supports owners to embed dogs into their home life. They take into account the speed you walk at, to make sure the dog isn’t too fast or too slow, your daily routine – there’s a lot that goes into it.

“I trust him, and he trusts me. It takes time to build that bond. It wouldn’t be possible for me to live the life I want to without these well-trained dogs.

“It’s so lovely – the public really care and want to donate time and money. I’m grateful to everyone involved.”

Guide Dogs Scotland 'grateful' for community support — Guide Dogs Scotland ‘grateful’ for community support STV News

The charity has gone from strength to strength over the decades.

It has also expanded its services beyond dogs, offering habilitation support for children and adults, buddy dogs, and sighted guide training for businesses.

Guide Dogs Scotland say they are “immensely proud” of their heritage in Forfar; the centre was made possible through fundraising efforts from the Forfar community.

CEO Andrew Lennox said: “It’s an incredible moment to celebrate with the team. We can’t do it without our 17,000 volunteers. To have that community around you, to see the support and warmth of people here.

“I’m so grateful for the community here. They have been incredibly generous to us, not just in support but in their ability to go out and raise money, and continue our mission.”

Jane Shelley, regional community fundraising manager for Guide Dogs Scotland, added: “As a charity that’s almost entirely dependent on donations from the public, fundraising has always been so important to our cause. We are so lucky to have such a fantastic group right here in Forfar.

“In the last 15 years alone, they have raised more than £100k for Guide Dogs and we massively appreciate the time and commitment. Looking back at our history and the impact we have made, thanks to the support of people in Forfar, Angus and across Scotland, we are immensely proud of our heritage here and how far we’ve come. We can’t wait to welcome everyone on Saturday.”