Category: Active Volunteer Award

Nominated by: Ageing Well (Midlothian Council)

During the pandemic the Ageing Well volunteers continued to offer outdoor activities whilst also telephoning round their regular groups to ensure everyone was coping during lockdown. They contacted over 600 Ageing Well participants, offering them advice and help as needed. They also did one-to-one walks when group activities were off and regularly called participants who were living on their own. Several participants acknowledged the dedication of these volunteers in feedback questionnaires and found their calls uplifting.

Nominated by: Dalkeith and District Community Council

Dalkeith Guerrilla Gardeners look after neglected public spaces in and around Dalkeith by weeding, planting and maintaining them. All year round, they plant native species, construct bee-friendly beds, and ensure shrubbery and bushes can be enjoyed by the public. In doing so they have really made a difference to the landscape of Dalkeith. They encourage residents of all ages and gardening abilities to meet on a weekly basis. All they ask is that people bring along gloves and a weeding tool, if they have them, and lots of enthusiasm!

Nominated by: Roslin and Bilston Community Council

Mirabelle has been an active community councillor in Roslin & Bilston for some 6 years. She also represents Roslin and Bilston as one of 16 councils at the Federation of Community Councils in Midlothian. In addition to being a brilliant community councillor, Mirabelle litter picks every week in the Roslin Glen Road near Powdermill. This area regrettably suffers from excessive litter and Mirabelle has become a well-known figure, regularly doing her best to clear the debris and even unblock drains.

Nominated by: Breastfeeding Network UK

Holly Gibb is a trained breastfeeding peer supporter and walk leader. She founded the Breastfeeding Café in Auchendinny in 2014, creating a place for breastfeeding women to come together for support on their breastfeeding journey. When the pandemic prevented face-to-face breastfeeding support groups, Holly quickly made plans for support to instead be provided virtually. She also trained up as a Paths for All Walk Leader and was heavily involved in the creation of the Walk, Talk and Feed group, which has been a valuable source of support for women in Midlothian during lockdown.

Nominated by: Newbattle Abbey Community Woodland Ranger Service

The Riverfly on the Esk Project involves sampling the South Esk river and looking at aquatic invertebrates to monitor water quality. Rebecca is involved with carrying out monthly surveys but also coordinates the other volunteer surveyors across three survey sites. She is looking to expand this scheme to include new sites along the North and South Esk rivers, and has also qualified as a volunteer trainer so she could share her expertise with other local surveyors. She is very enthusiastic – such a dedicated volunteer! She really drives the project forward.