About Snowdrop Argyll

Our story

Over 30 years ago, our community recognised the need to create a therapy centre for people and families affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in rural Argyll.

Support was initially focused on MS and other neurological conditions, but as the needs of our community grew, we listened and expanded our work. Today we support people managing a wide range of health conditions, while also creating opportunities for connection, understanding and a strong sense of community.

While neurological conditions remain an important part of our work, we now support a much wider community including people living with long-term conditions, experiencing loneliness or rural isolation, facing mental wellbeing challenges, or taking on caring roles.

We continue to build on over three decades of lived experience, peer support and relationship-based community work.

Our Centre offers a welcoming, vibrant yet relaxed space, where people can connect with others, access support and take part in activities that promote inclusion, connection and wellbeing.

We support people to reconnect with themselves, with others and with their communities. 

Sometimes, support begins with something very small:
 a welcoming smile, a conversation, a cup of tea, a creative activity, or a few kind words.

You matter. You are welcome here.

Timeline

  • 1992

    Our local community identified the need to support people affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and fundraising and plans began.

  • 1996

    Multiple Sclerosis Centre was officially opened by our community for local people primarily living with MS and neurological conditions.

  • 2009

    Recognised nationally through the GSK Impact Awards and the Queens Award for Volunteers.

  • 2012

    Recognised by The Alliance as the Self Management Project of the Year.

  • 2013

    Substantial funding received from The Alliance to create rural outreach to people in their own homes across the remote rural areas of Mid Argyll, Kintyre, Islay and Jura who faced various barriers to coming to us.

  • 2018

    Centre Manager, Karen McCurry is awarded a BEM for services to health and charity. Article: West Coast Today - News - Mid Argyll stalwarts given honours

  • 2020

    Covid Pandemic  - Development of blended online/offline support and digital inclusion.

  • 2021

    Invited to join the Mental Health Foundation/ The Alliance Living Well: Emotional Support Matters Partnership Programme as one of the 8 Scottish delivery partners supported to deliver tailored, practical mental health support. Download here >

  • 2021

    ‍Outreach Worker Claire Cameron is named Argyll and Bute’s Local Hero nominated by Jenni Minto MSP

    Article:  West Coast link Today - News - Local Hero Claire 'humbled' by Holyrood honour

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  • 2022

    Wellbeing Project developed through funding from The Alliance and Mental Health Foundation

  • 2024

    Wellbeing Worker, Laurene Cameron, is highly commended for services to older people by Age Scotland. Article: West Coast Today - News - Development worker recognised for her impact on older people

  • 2025

    Super Snowdrops led by Laurene Cameron win Age Scotland’s Take 5 to Age Well Journal of the Year. Article: West Coast Today - News - Super Snowdrops celebrate award

  • Today

    Snowdrop Argyll, in our 30th year, is a vibrant community wellbeing hub rooted in our core values.

Community

What matters to us

Community is at the heart of everything we do.

Whether in Lochgilphead and the surrounding area, Tarbert, Campbeltown and surrounding areas, or on the islands of Islay and Jura, it is people and communities that matter most.

Through shared experiences, creativity and connection, people develop a sense of belonging and discover they are not alone.
 Small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Based in the heart of Lochgilphead, our Centre offers a warm and welcoming space where people can come together, share experiences and take part in activities that support wellbeing.

Our Community Led Values

  • Connection

    People need people.

  • Compassion

    We lead with kindness, empathy and humanity.

  • Belonging

    Everyone deserves to feel included and have a sense of place.

  • Dignity

    We see and respect the whole person, not just their problems or diagnosis.

  • Creativity

    We use arts, stories, multimedia and shared experiences to support wellbeing.

  • Hope

    We support people to rediscover purpose, meaning and joy.

Our values were chosen by our community.

They guide everything we do and shape how we work together, side by side.

“A place where you can be yourself.”

We understand that living with a long-term condition or facing challenging life circumstances can affect almost every part of life.

“Remember, you have the right to be you.”

We do not define people by their diagnosis or their circumstances.

“My community sees my ability, not my disability.”

We focus on:

  • Connection and belonging rather than isolation

  • Strengths and possibilities rather than limitations

  • Compassion and understanding rather than judgement

A safe and supportive space.

“I hide the real me from everyone, except the team. I feel safe to drop the mask, knowing they treat me with kindness and dignity.”

Everyone deserves a place where they feel safe, understood and connected.

“Being part of the group helped me rebuild my confidence"

You do not have to face the tougher times alone.

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