Time and again over the past 20 months I have never failed to have been amazed by the way in which people have quickly adapted and evolved in response to the barrage of challenges thrown at us as a consequence of the coronavirus pandemic.
Whether it’s dealing with unprecedented demand for goods, rapidly switching in-person services to online, launching delivery services or altering business premises to make them safe, we have repeatedly seen a spirit which should make us all proud.
The people and businesses who are at the heart of our towns and neighbourhoods have been on the frontline – epitomising the determination to make a difference which continues to see us through the continued impacts of Covid-19 on our lives.
Their work has been tireless. They have been there for us like never before. Local life has never been more important to us – reminding us all about the importance of the people, places and businesses around us.
I count myself fortunate to have been able to help shine a spotlight on some of the remarkable work that’s been ongoing – and the critical need for us all to think, choose and spend local – through the work of my company, Message Matters, alongside Scotland’s Towns Partnership on the Scotland Loves Local campaign.
Strong and innovative leadership has been at the heart of not only community responses to the pandemic, but in the ongoing mission to make our communities more attractive, cleaner, stronger and more sustainable.
That is why I am delighted that we are sponsoring the Place Leader category in the Scotland Loves Local Awards.
The awards are a tremendous opportunity to recognise and say thanks to all those who go above and beyond to make our communities better and who are at the forefront of creating a better future for the places we call home.
The stories of our finalists are inspirational. They should encourage us all to make the positive decision of supporting the businesses, services and attractions on our doorsteps – embracing the values of the Scotland Loves Local campaign. By doing so, we can not only ensure thriving local economies, but support Scotland’s ambitious net-zero agenda. There are few things more sustainable than supporting local businesses.
With just over a week until our winners are revealed, I have to say that the calibre of those shortlisted in Place Leader is impressive. The judges undoubtedly faced a difficult decision.
What all three of our Place Leader finalists have in common is enormous dedication and resilience through making positive changes within their communities.
Malcolm Thomas-Harley, BID manager of Hamilton Our Town, organised weekly markets showcasing local businesses in Hamilton to drive footfall. Jackie Shearer has been a key driving force behind the development of Possilpark BID and Andrew Spence of BID Oban has taken a fresh strategic approach to how Business Improvement Districts can make a valuable contribution to their respective local areas. These deserved nominees have gone above and beyond to make their local areas better places to live and work by putting place at the focus of recovery. They have set a fantastic example to all of us by showcasing the importance of collaborative working and harnessing a community spirit.
They are all true champions of the Love Local message and undoubtedly deserve the rich recognition for their work. Good luck to them all.
Peter Duncan is Managing Director of strategic communications consultancy Message Matters, sponsors of Place Leader in the Scotland Loves Local Awards
