Moray’s First Sharing Ceilidh Brings the Community to Its Feet – With More to Come!
The Community Research Network for Mental Wealth in Moray was launched last March. This is a collaborative initiative hosted by the Moray Wellbeing Hub to be delivered over the next five years. This network brings together a diverse group of partners, including Science Ceilidh, to co-create solutions and drive community-led action aimed at enhancing mental wellbeing across the region.
This Summer, they are hosting a series of community events for connecting and wellbeing, including a series of Sharing Ceilidhs open to everyone in Moray.
Sharing Ceilidh in Lhanbryde
From tots to teens, grannies to gig-goers — Moray’s first Sharing Ceilidh was a joyful success, setting the stage for a summer of dancing, dialogue, and discovery.
Hosted by the Collaboration for Mental Wealth in Moray, the Lhanbryde Community Centre came alive in June 2025 as nearly 50 people gathered for a unique evening of food, music, and heartfelt sharing. But this wasn't just a ceilidh — it was a space for connection, curiosity, and community-led research.
From the first beat of the Dandy Ceilidh Band, the floor filled with laughter and twirling kilts. Attendees enjoyed a relaxed mix of live music, stovies, and “sharing slots” — moments where local voices stepped up to speak, sing, or simply share what mental wealth means to them.
“What lovely people! Thank you for dancing! Loved the lots of different generations. Thanks for having us.” – Dandy Ceilidh Band
What is a Sharing Ceilidh?
Blending traditional ceilidh spirit with the heart of community research, a Sharing Ceilidh is a place where Moray residents can come together and ask:
What makes us feel well? What helps us thrive? How can we shape the future — together?
The Lhanbryde event featured:
Shared food and laughter
Live music by local legends like Ali Downs and Queen McBean
Community voices, including speakers from Lhanbryde Hub and Peer Researchers
Real conversations about mental wealth, research, and lived experience
A warm welcome for all — whether in trainers or tartan
Photo: Alexander Williamson
Photo: Alexander Williamson
“We are all researchers in our own lives.”
A Community in Conversation
Attendees weren’t just participants — they were collaborators. Using creative tools like “stone voting” and reflection sheets, the event invited everyone to share their thoughts:
“From an outsider looking in the window, I never realised how many doors were there — which can now be opened and explored.”
Participants spoke about:
The value of being together without judgment
Wanting more events like this in their community
Seeing research as something they could take part in, not just observe
One attendee summed it up best:
“I learned that I can use my creativity to express my neurodiversity more.”
Missed It? You’ve Got More Chances!
Join the next Sharing Ceilidhs:
Forres Town Hall – Saturday 9th August
Cullen Community Centre – Saturday 23rd August
New Elgin Hall – Saturday 30th August
Find out more and get involved
Sing up for the next events here: www.mentalwealthmoray.org.uk
They are also welcoming any local creatives, schools, musicians, dancers, performers, and those with community projects focused on wellbeing to showcase their talents. If you know of anyone interested or if you are able to support the event by volunteering please get in touch at hello@moraywellbeinghub.org.uk.
Special thanks to our photographer: Alexander Williamson
Partners making it happen:
Moray Wellbeing Hub, Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI), Moray Art Development Engagement (M:ADE), tsiMORAY, Science Ceilidh, Arrows (Quarriers), Earthtime for All, Grampian Regional Equalities Council (GREC), and The Three Kings Cullen Association.
Funded by: The Young Foundation and UK Research & Innovation (UKRI)