Friday March 27th 2026
Elaine Williamson, Jamie McIlory and James Horsefield
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Catherine Hunter
A charity fundraiser to help a Glasgow organisation dedicated to supporting adults with disabilities and additional support needs raised more than £1500 last weekend.
The Glasgow Rock Choir hosted the concert last Saturday afternoon to help Buddies Clubs and Services with its Crowdfunding appeal to sustain the services they offer to children and adults.
Elaine Williamson, who is the Glasgow Rock Choir leader, was approached by one of her members Rosemary, whose son Jamie uses Buddies services, to fundraise for the group.
Rosemary McIlroy’s son Jamie is 37 and has severe autism and complex needs. He relies on the services Buddies provides and his mum.
Speaking about the event, Elaine Williamson, said: “It was a great day last Saturday with a nice vibe in the room and we raised over £1500 for Buddies.
“What was really nice about it was that we had the donations on the day, but then they had online donations coming in afterwards and it was just great.
“Because it wasn’t a ticketed show anyone could come along and anyone could give a donation whether that be 50p or £20 but it all adds up and contributes to a great cause.
“We sang a variety of songs such as Call Me by Blondie, You Got It by Roy Orbison and Someone you Loved by Lewis Capaldi.
“Rosemary came to me to say that Buddies was struggling for funding and asked if there was anything else we could do as a choir to help.
“I knew of them and drove past them a lot but I didn’t realise the extent of the service they provided. I was already planning a concert at the end of our spring term so it was perfect timing.”
Buddies Clubs and Services, based at Southbrae Drive in Jordanhill, is looking to raise £100,000 to help sustain the services they offer.
Buddies provide support to these children and their families by offering respite, and need passionate and dedicated staff. They also offer nursery services to all children between 0 and five years of age.
James Horsefield, General Administrator Buddies Clubs and Services, said: “Our manager, and I were delighted to attend the recent Rock Choir Glasgow West performance at Kelvinside Hillhead Church. The choir delivered an outstanding and uplifting performance, showcasing both exceptional talent and a powerful sense of community spirit.
“On behalf of everyone at Buddies, we extend our sincere gratitude to Elaine Williamson and all members of Rock Choir Glasgow West for their incredible fundraising efforts in support of our work. We are particularly grateful to Rosemary McIlroy, whose connection with both the choir and Buddies made this meaningful collaboration possible.
“The generosity and commitment demonstrated through this event will make a significant difference to the services and facilities we provide. Most importantly, it is the children and young people we support who will truly benefit. While they may not see the financial impact behind the scenes, the joy and confidence they gain through improved opportunities speaks volumes.
“We are deeply humbled by this show of support and proud to be part of such a compassionate and engaged community that cares for each other so much.”
To donate visit https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/buddiesclubsandservices
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