Find 6 Recommended Local Charities & Nonprofits in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Dog & Cat Home is Scotland's longest-established animal welfare charity, specialising in dog and cat rehoming, pet food bank provision, and owner support services. We deliver expert animal care, behavioural training, and community outreach programmes across East and Central Scotland. Our 140-year heritage combines tradition with innovation in addressing pet homelessness.

Garvald Edinburgh is a registered charity providing creative and developmental opportunities for adults with learning disabilities. Established in 1968, we offer workshops in crafts, arts, and retail training across five Edinburgh locations. Our person-centred approach, grounded in Anthroposophy, fosters independence, skill-building, and community integration through structured, supportive environments.

Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland is Scotlands leading health charity supporting people living with chest, heart, stroke and related long-term conditions. We deliver free, confidential advice, practical condition management resources, specialist support for specific health needs, and fund innovative care improvement projects across the country. Our core purpose is to ensure no one in Scotland has to recover alone, and that every person we support can live a full, independent life with the right help at the right time.

Local People Leading is a coalition advocating for community empowerment across Scotland. We represent diverse community networks through policy development, advocacy, and collaborative initiatives. Our work focuses on devolving decision-making power to local levels while promoting community wealth building and wellbeing economy principles.

Thistle Foundation supports individuals with disabilities and long-term health conditions across Scotland. We deliver person-centred care through Supported Living, Health and Wellbeing programmes, and professional training initiatives. Our services focus on empowering people to manage their conditions and achieve personal goals.

Crossreach is a leading Scottish charity providing person-centred social care services for people of all ages. We specialise in mental health support, dementia care, substance use rehabilitation, family counselling, and support for individuals with learning disabilities. With over 155 years of experience, we combine professional expertise with a Christian ethos to empower vulnerable individuals across Scotland.