Organisations from across the country are amongst the 241 recipients of the Queen's Award
Scottish charities have been recognised as the backbone of communities, after the winners of the 2021 Queen's Award were revealed.
A host of Scottish organisations were recognised on the list, with groups awarded for delivering exceptional service within their communities over the past year and beyond.
Many of those honoured have adapted their services to respond to the coronavirus outbreak as the voluntary sector continues to play a vital role in the national recovery.
Garioch Community Kitchen were recognised for providing cooking workshops in Aberdeenshire, Nevis Community Radio Ltd for serving their local community in Lochaber and the Bridgend Farmhouse project was also named.
3D Drumchapel were picked for supporting families in Glasgow, and Broke Not Broken for tackling poverty in Kinross.
The other Scottish winners were: Westhill & District Men's Shed, Shopper-Aide, Aberchirder and District Men's Shed, Cullen Volunteer Group, Lochaber Hope, West Highland Museum Trust, East Kilbride and District Young Farmers Club, Belville Community Garden Trust, Compassionate Inverclyde, Cromarty Care Project, Aberdeen Cyrenians, Celebrate Aberdeen and Scottish Ethnic Minority Sports Association.
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service Independent Committee Chair Sir Martyn Lewis, said: “There is no finer example of democracy in action than people getting together at a local level to tackle a problem or issue at the heart of their community. This year’s magnificent award winning groups touch virtually every area of need across our society.
“They also highlight the growing and key role which volunteers are playing in times of rapid change and unprecedented challenges. Whether driven by a neighbourly passion to help others or to achieve that well recognised “high” of personal satisfaction, volunteering taps into a rich spirit of generosity, ingenuity and kindness. The Queen’s Award’s judges are proud to honour the achievements of those who help to make our country great.”
Minister for civil society, Baroness Barran, said: “I’m extremely grateful for the work being carried out by volunteers across the country, and this prestigious award is extremely well deserved. I’d like to congratulate all of the winners, and thank them for the dedication to their communities.
“In these challenging times, charities, social enterprises and their volunteers have been the backbone of local communities.
“Recent research has shown that 99% of people who have volunteered report positive personal benefits, including a sense of purpose, achievement and feeling as though they are making a difference. I hope today’s award inspires people and I encourage everyone to consider how they could volunteer in some way.”
