Community Carroteers
Bringing the High Street to Your Door
The Community Carrot is proud to run the Community Carroteers project—an initiative making a meaningful difference to the lives of local residents across Dunbar and the surrounding villages.
We recognised that many vulnerable people in our community face challenges accessing the high street to shop, connect with others, and enjoy a sense of belonging. In 2025, support from the East Lammermuir Community Council (ELCC) enabled us to pilot a volunteering programme designed to reduce social isolation and bring healthy food directly to those who need it most.
This project matches volunteer befrienders with people who need support. Each week, volunteers collect shopping from the high street often from the Community Carrot, the Community Bakery, the fishmonger, and occasionally the chemist for prescriptions. They deliver the shopping to the befriendee’s door and stay for a friendly chat while helping unpack.
Making a Real Impact
We’ve supported 13 local residents seeking companionship and help with their shopping. Nine have already joined as Crunchy Customers—each now part of a warm and caring community network.
Our Community Connectors—our wonderful befrienders and high street volunteers—continue to grow in number. Eight volunteers are now actively matched and making weekly visits.
During these visits, it became clear that many participants would also benefit from help with small household or garden tasks. In response, we introduced a handyman/gardener role—an addition that has been warmly welcomed and has made a visible, positive difference to home environments, wellbeing, and day‑to‑day comfort.
Looking Ahead
Following the success of our pilot, we’re delighted that the ELCC has chosen to fund us again, allowing us to continue strengthening and expanding the Community Carroteers programme.
Get Involved
If you’d like to volunteer, join as a participant, or simply learn more, we’d love to hear from you.
Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Danielle, at:
volunteer@communitycarrot.scot
07930 549768