BEAR Scotland, which operates and maintains the motorways and trunk roads across South East Scotland, has donated £750 to Play Therapy Base, a Dalkeith-based charity that helps children express their emotions through play.

BEAR Scotland is a local employer with a depot in Bonnyrigg and is responsible for roads including the A68, A720, and A702. As part of its Regional Charity Initiative, employees are encouraged to nominate good causes for funding, supporting charities that make a difference in the communities BEAR Scotland works in.

Jamie Finlayson, BEAR Scotland’s South East Contract Delivery Manager, said “I know the amazing work Play Therapy Base do and the positive impact they have on the children they work with.

“The charity does fantastic work helping families across the Lothians, and I’m really pleased we’ve been able to contribute to their playrooms. It’s great to know this donation will help create a positive environment for children who need it most.”

Play Therapy Base, who supports children aged three to 14 years and their families by giving them a safe way to explore their feelings through play, plans to use the donation to ensure their playrooms are well-stocked.

Linda Cuthbert, Service Manager at Play therapy Base, said: “We have 60 children who use three playrooms. Keeping all the rooms fresh and clean is a constant struggle but this donation helps hugely with replacing broken toys and refreshing the sand pit. Thank you to BEAR Scotland for your generosity.”

• Pictured Left to Right: Linda Cuthbert (Play Therapy Base, Service Manager), Jamie Finlayson (BEAR Scotland, South East Contract Delivery Manager), Wendy Richardson (Play Therapy Base, Support Worker)