Lothian Buses, Edinburgh’s main transport provider, has opened applications for a new Charity of Choice for 2023 and 2024.

Having extended its partnership with the mental health charity, Support in Mind Scotland for an extra year due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, Lothian is on the lookout for a new local charity to work with over the next two years.

Lothian has always been a committed partner to many charities and causes in their operating area, including Guide Dogs Scotland, Whizz Kids, MacMillan Cancer Support and The Yard.

Gaynor Marshall, Communications Director for Lothian said: “We are delighted to announce the application process to find our new Charity of Choice opens today. As one of the biggest employers in the region, and the main transport operator in the capital city, Lothian are very much part of the fabric of the communities we serve.

“Over the last three years our partnership with Support in Mind Scotland has enabled us to raise awareness of mental health issues which affect so many people, both across our own business and wider society.

“We’d like to thank Support in Mind Scotland for working with us through a global pandemic and for their enthusiasm and commitment to us throughout our partnership.”

Nick Ward, CEO at Support in Mind Scotland said: “Support in Mind Scotland’s partnership with Lothian Buses, and being Charity of Choice, has been an incredibly fulfilling experience and has enabled the charity to reach more people across the Lothians. Not only has our branded Lothian bus travelled the length and breadth of Edinburgh, but we have also promoted mental health awareness to the wonderful Lothian team and ensure more people are talking about mental health.”

Charities can apply to become Lothian’s Charity of Choice by filling in an online application form on Lothian’s website at www.lothianbuses.com/charity by Sunday 14 August.

All applicants must demonstrate how the partnership would benefit service users in Lothian’s operating area.