What we do
Creating brighter futures for the people, communities and wildlife of Scotland
From the water to the banks and beyond, we undertake innovative canal-based projects that create a brighter future for the people, communities and wildlife of Scotland.
We help young people gain the skills and confidence to find work; bring vibrancy, life and opportunities to some of the nation’s most disadvantaged communities; encourage people to get active and improve their health and mental wellbeing; and safeguard and improve the rich heritage and environments of Scotland’s canals.
Since the Trust was established over a decade ago, we’ve raised and invested more than £10 million in hundreds of pioneering projects and inspired over 120,000 people to create a brighter future for themselves, their community and Scotland’s waterways.
But, with your help, we can do so much more. Find out more about the work we do and how you can get involved. Or if you would prefer to donate then text ‘canal’ to 70111 to give £3 or visit our Just Giving page.
Your time & donations can transform lives
“My son Michael (19) has autism and associated learning difficulties. He started volunteering with the Green Action team and he absolutely loves it!
There is nothing out there for people like Michael, which lets him work alongside others who accept him for who he is without prejudice. We hope [you] will be able to keep helping the young people with their self confidence, feeling of self worth and to build their skills.
Many thanks to everyone at Green Action for the part they have played in our lives.”
Julie
Michael′s Mum“Green Action definitely helped me get the job. During the interview they said they were very impressed with my CV and the fact that I had been volunteering.”
Ian
50, a Green Action volunteer“My experience of volunteering with the Scottish Waterways Trust on the Caledonian Canal has been very positive. It has been a huge boost to my confidence and I have learned a great deal. I definitely feel it has been beneficial to my future career plans and that the move I’m making to a residential volunteering project would not have been possible without the experience and skills I gained at the canal.”
Julia Duncan
Volunteer on the Caledonian Canal“The first day I met Alan I knew the project would change my life for the better. Coming to Green Action gives me a sense of achievement I have never had before.
“Finally I know what area I want to work in. I have been on benefits since leaving school and I used to think to myself ‘is this going to be my life forever?’. I thought I would never achieve or be anything. Coming to Green Action has increased my confidence levels through new motivation and realising I can do anything.”
