Upmo, the Edinburgh and Lothians-based charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and autism, has unveiled its brand-new electric van— funded by CrossCountry’s Customer and Communities Improvement Fund (CCIF).
The van is wrapped in eye-catching Upmo branding and features the CrossCountry logo. It reflects a shared commitment to inclusion and sustainability.
The fully electric vehicle is already in operation across Edinburgh, Prestonpans and Gorebridge. It supports Upmo’s network of community cafés, gardens, and student-led retail projects, which provide students with meaningful work experience, practical life skills and increased independence.
Mark Smith, CEO at Upmo said “We are thrilled to have this electric van active in our community. Thanks to CrossCountry, we can now deliver our social enterprise services with greater efficiency and do our bit for the environment.”
Helping to reduce carbon emissions by replacing journeys previously made in petrol and diesel vehicles, the new vehicle will be used to:
- Deliver Upmo Retail products to markets and partners
- Transport produce from Upmo Grow to Upmo Eat cafés and partners
- Transport equipment to student events, including musical performances and art exhibitions
- Offer student work experience in areas like distribution and customer service
This builds on an existing partnership between Upmo and major rail operator CrossCountry. In 2023 Upmo Eat cafés received CCIF grant funding, with senior executives from CrossCountry visiting Upmo’s Drumbrae café in March 2024. In April 2024 and again in May this year, Upmo students were invited to take part in a work experience day with the catering team on-board a CrossCountry train from Edinburgh to Newcastle.
“Our relationship with CrossCountry shows what’s possible when partnerships go beyond funding,” added Mark. “Together, we’re delivering real impact—for our students and our community.”
Look out for the new Upmo van as it makes its rounds in Edinburgh and the Lothians!
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