60 Years of Impact – Share Your Story with Our Memory Box
This article is from Spring 2025, when Murray’s Initiative was known as Glasgow Council on Alcohol. Learn more about our new name here ➔
To celebrate 60 years of supporting people across Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Murray’s Initiative has launched our ‘Memory Box’ — an online space to collect stories from anyone whose life has been touched by our work since 1965.
Since our founding, we have supported an estimated 200,000 people affected by alcohol and drug-related harms. The Memory Box invites clients, families, staff, volunteers, partners, funders and friends to share their memories — big or small — to help us celebrate six decades of hard work and dedication.
Chief Executive Lesley Ross said:
“All memories matter, whether big or small. Those who wish to share stories of their involvement can so do – anonymously if desired – on our website.
“Since our founding we’ve diversified and support anyone affected by alcohol and drug or their loved ones. We are looking to collect as many stories as possible as we assess our legacy over the last six decades while planning for our future.”
One contributor, Jacqui, a former staff member, shared:
“I gained a placement with Elevate and completed an SVQ3 in Social Care. I completed my placement with the Peer Mentor Service with Phoenix Futures.
“I then applied for the first intake of Support Worker roles for Elevate Service and was successful. I was involved in the development and service delivery within Elevate and worked for the service for 4 years. It was the best 4 years. I was fortunate to support 5 participants to Sweden with Erasmus, and this was an excellent opportunity not only for the clients but for me.
“I now work in partnership with GCA and promote this service as I know the amazing work they do!”
Stories like Jacqui’s reflect the heart of what Murray’s Initiative stands for — people supporting people to rebuild lives, strengthen communities and create hope for the future.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, selected memories will be showcased at a special event in Glasgow City Chambers in November.
