Local Edinburgh charity Forget Me Notes brought their best singing voices to our All Aboard canal boat as they treated their volunteers to a fun-filled afternoon exploring the Union Canal and celebrating their achievements.
Our All Aboard canal boat, which we run in partnership with Polwarth Parish Church, first set sail in 2021 and has been providing local organisations, young people, vulnerable adults, and those in need with a warm and welcoming space to see a side of Edinburgh they haven’t seen before. Its bright yellow and blue colour scheme are shining in the sun this summer providing groups like Forget Me Notes with an unforgettable day out.
Run by a dedicated team of volunteers, All Aboard’s crew creates an environment like no other, making their guests feel like a part of the team by tending to their needs, and teaching them about the canal. Without them, our trips would not be possible.
Sea shanties
Through the power of music Forget Me Notes, a community choir group, has helped those struggling with social isolation for many years. Their music memory sessions for people who are perhaps vulnerable in some way or another, provide experiences where people can express themselves more fully than they might be able to in other environments.
When they reached out to us with their idea of bringing some music to Edinburgh’s Union Canal, we knew we had to make this opportunity a reality. Working with our All Aboard team the Forget Me Notes spent an afternoon on our canal boat. With their songbook at the ready, passers-by out for a stroll on the canal were treated to a range of old classics and even the Forget Me Notes theme song. It made for a fun-filled afternoon for our crew of volunteers; not even a brief rainstorm could stop their high spirits.
Musical memories
From a group of strangers to a force for good, Forget Me Notes continues to bring joy to those who cherish the sound of music. Their shared love of music allows their voice to reach communities one harmony at a time, even if it’s only for a day you’ll always feel part of Forget Me Notes.
This trip is one we certainly won’t forget; we are incredibly proud that All Aboard provides a valuable space for those across Edinburgh and The Lothians looking to make a difference. Our volunteers play a vital part in all our services, and we love that after many years groups continue to praise their hospitability. We look forward to welcoming the Forget Me Notes back to All Aboard in the future whenever they next look to bring a little song and dance to the waters of Edinburgh.
This summer we’d love to introduce more people and organisations to this excellent experience, so we are looking to expand our award-winning team of boat volunteers. By volunteering you’ll get to see the impact a small trip on our boat makes to the lives of the community groups all while learning a whole host of new skills.