Christmas lift appeal – keeping our home accessible
Help us fund a new external lift so everyone can access our Albany Street home.
Help keep our home accessible to all
For generations, our building on Albany Street has been the beating heart of the deaf community, and our home since 1889.
It has witnessed deaf couples sign “I do” in our Church, countless blethers in the garden tended by incredible volunteers, unforgettable late-night BSL karaoke in the Blackwood Bar, and quiet afternoons in the Brennan Library for book lovers and students alike.
This place holds history, stories, and community spirit in every corner. It is a welcoming space for everyone: deaf people, BSL learners, hearing parents of deaf children, friends, allies, and visitors from around the world.
Each year, we welcome thousands of people through our doors to learn, celebrate, connect, and belong.
Why we’re fundraising
We now face an urgent challenge.
Our external lift, essential for wheelchair users, older community members, and anyone unable to use the stairs, has broken beyond repair.
Being able to welcome everyone into our building is at the heart of our mission. Without a working lift, many people are excluded from the services, events, and community life that happen here every day.
We have secured planning permission from the City of Edinburgh Council and placed an order for a brand-new lift. The total cost is £13,421.75.
While we are determined to get this installed as quickly as possible, it is a significant expense we cannot meet on our own.
How you can help
This is where we need your support.
By donating or supporting any of our fundraising events, you are helping us keep our home open, inclusive, and fully accessible for all. Every contribution brings us one step closer to restoring equal access to our historic building.
Your gift will:
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Restore step-free access to the entire building
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Ensure older and disabled people can continue to participate in community life
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Support thousands of visitors who pass through our doors each year
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Protect a vital cultural and community hub in the heart of Edinburgh
How you can get involved
There are a few ways you can support our Christmas Lift Appeal:
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Buy a ticket for our BSL Burns Week events – every ticket helps fund the new lift.
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Take part in the Santa Dash and raise sponsorship for Deaf Action.
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Donate directly to the Christmas Lift Appeal to help us reach our £13,421.75 target.
Every contribution brings us closer to restoring full access to our Albany Street home.
Every pound makes a difference. Your donation directly supports the installation of the new lift.
