Applications are now open to be the next Charity of Choice partner for Edinburgh Trams and Lothian Buses.
This year, following the integration of bus and tram operations in the city, we are delighted to share that Edinburgh Trams will join Lothian Buses in supporting a dedicated charity partner, bringing even more colleagues and customers together behind causes that make a real difference in the communities we serve.
Lothian Buses has supported a number of charities since 2017 including Macmillan Cancer Support, Guide Dogs Scotland and most recently Age Scotland, who’ve been the focus of all fundraising and awareness raising campaigns at the transport company over the course of 2025/26.
Gaynor Marshall, Communications Director for Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams, said:
“As one of the region’s largest employers, we are committed to playing an active role in the communities we serve and helping make a positive difference to the lives of local people.
“Our partnership with Age Scotland has been incredibly rewarding, and we are proud to have supported its vital work to improve the lives of older people across Edinburgh and the Lothians.
“As we look ahead, we are excited to build a new partnership that can make an equally meaningful impact. We would encourage charities of all sizes, representing a wide range of causes, to put themselves forward for the opportunity to work with us throughout 2027 and 2028.”
“Applications are open from today, and we look forward to hearing from organisations that share our commitment to supporting local communities”.
Applications to be Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams’ next Charity of Choice can be submitted online at the link below. The first stage of applications will close on Friday 18 September.
FAQs
Can charities of any size apply, or is there a minimum turnover/size requirement?
Applications are welcome from charities of all sizes!
Does our organisation need to be a registered charity?
Yes, only organisations officially registered with OSCR with a charity number are eligible to apply.
Can charities that have previously been selected apply again?
Yes - charities who've been successful in the past are welcome to apply again.
Can a national charity apply if it delivers services locally?
National charities are welcome to apply; however we would require evidence of how services and/or funds are used within our operating area.
What geographical area must we operate in?
Your charity must be able to demonstrably evidence its impact within one of more of the following areas: City of Edinburgh, West Lothian, East Lothian and Midlothian.
Who sits on the Charity of Choice Committee?
The Charity of Choice Committee brings together a broad range of experience and expertise from across Lothian and Edinburgh Trams, including representation from our senior leadership and director teams, Unite the Union, with responsibilities across finance, marketing and communications, operations and engineering.
If unsuccessful, will our charity receive feedback?
Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications received for our Charity of Choice partnership it is not possible to provide individual feedback.
