UK Government recognises Scottish volunteers
The enormous contribution of volunteers to life in Scotland was recognised by the UK Government today.
Scotland Office Minister Andrew Dunlop held a reception for the Scottish winners of the Prime Minister’s Point of Light award.
The event, held to mark National Volunteers’ Week, acknowledged the huge commitment of the thousands of people who give their time and skills to support good causes in communities across Scotland. It was hosted by the Weir Group in their Glasgow offices.
Andrew Dunlop said:
I was very pleased to be able to meet so many inspirational people today. Thousands of volunteers work tirelessly across Scotland to improve communities, support vulnerable people, and make life better for others. It is right that we take time to celebrate and recognise their contribution, and say a huge ‘thank you’ to all of them.
The Minister also presented a new Point of Light award on behalf of the Prime Minister to Corinne Hutton from the charity Finding Your Feet. The organisation provides emotional, practical and physical support to those who have suffered limb loss or loss of limb function. Ms Hutton set up Finding Your Feet to support others after having her own hands and feet amputated in 2013. She has since broken three world records with her fundraising challenges, and has raised £250,000 for the charity’s work. Ms Hutton is the 546th UK Point of Light winner, and the 36th in Scotland.
Speaking about Corinne, the Prime Minister, David Cameron, said:
Corinne is a Point of Light. From carrying the Commonwealth baton, to becoming the first female quadruple amputee in history to reach the summit of Ben Nevis, her world record-breaking physical challenges inspire others affected by amputation and raise funds for her fantastic Finding Your Feet charity.
Andrew Dunlop said:
It was an honour to present the Prime Minister’s Point of Light Award to Corinne Hutton today. She is an inspirational figure, who has used the experience of overcoming her own challenges to help others. Her remarkable dedication to supporting others is a lesson to us all.
The Electric Theatre Workshop from Dumfries performed for guests at the reception. One of the Point Of Light winners, Moira Priestley, is a member of the choir.