Louise Anderson - New Start Highland

New Start Highland creates positive change for people exiting homelessness or trying to move forward from a place of crisis. Each year, the organisation helps over 1,500 individuals take meaningful steps toward brighter futures. With a holistic approach, New Start Highland provides tailored services ranging from housing support to skills training, empowering people to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose. Since it established in 2000, the organisation has diverted 10,000 tons of furniture and household goods from landfill and has given away over 30,000 furniture and starter packs. It serves the community over 120,000 times every year.

As Positive Activities Coordinator for New Start Highland, Louise creates pathways of hope for people in recovery. In the past year, she has connected 30 individuals with activities that help foster positive change, from employment and education to sobriety and stable housing. Her impact extends far beyond New Start Highland and creates meaningful change within the wider community. Whether mentoring colleagues or guiding individuals toward brighter futures, she does so with kindness and an unshakable belief in people’s potential. A trusted person in times of need, Louise offers a compassionate listening ear and serves as a constant source of motivation.