Heroic efforts to support Scotland’s high streets and tackle the challenges of climate change in communities will be recognised at special awards.
Enterprise, creativity and digital innovation shaping a stronger future for towns, villages and neighbourhoods across the country will also be celebrated as part of the 2022 Scotland Loves Local Awards.
Nominations have opened with people being urged to speak up to highlight and honour the people and organisations making a difference to life in their area.
Organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), the awards celebrate all that’s great about the nation’s towns and neighbourhoods and the work to ensure they become stronger and more sustainable.
STP Chief Officer Phil Prentice said: “Remarkable work is taking place in communities across the country to make them better, fairer, more attractive and successful places in which to live and work. The Scotland Loves Local Awards are a chance to recognise this and thank those involved for all that they are doing.
“To do that, we need you to tell us about the inspiring people and projects whose dedication and innovation is making a real difference where you live.”
Scotland Loves Local, spearheaded by STP with the support of the Scottish Government, is the campaign encouraging everyone to strengthen their community by supporting the businesses and people around them.
Community Wealth Minister Tom Arthur said: “These awards recognise those who are doing vital work to revitalise town centres and support local businesses and communities across Scotland. That is why the Scottish Government is supporting the Scotland Loves Local programme to help people live well locally and boost town centres.
“These awards are inspiring examples of the possible, showcasing the wonderful work undertaken by communities and local partners to make a real difference to the lives of people.”
The award categories are:
- High Street Hero (an individual or organisation making an exceptional difference in their community)
- Climate and Net-Zero Towns
- Creative Town
- Streets and Spaces
- Digital Town
- Town Centre Living
- Enterprising Community
This is the second year in which the Scotland Loves Local Awards have been held.
Among the 2021 recipients was Dunfermline butcher Bryan Beveridge who was named as the nation’s High Street Hero after being hailed as a lifeline for his community during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Nominations can be made here, where full category criteria can also be found. There, you can briefly share the details of your nominee and why you would like to see them recognised.
The closing date for nominations is 5pm on Friday, September 2 2022. Winners will be announced at a celebration being held on Wednesday, November 23 as part of the annual Scotland’s Towns Conference.
