Volunteers shine at awards ceremony

James Greig from Mull was recognised as Regional Hero - The Islands for his 20 years of volunteer service at Mull Rugby Club, particularly his work with the girls’ teams.

Volunteering Team of the Year award went to Green Shoots from Oban. Nominated by Jo Heritage, Green Shoots volunteers have transformed community gardens for the past 10 years, including their recent work at Dunollie Castle creating inclusive spaces.

During his address, Takki Sulaiman, chief executive officer of Argyll and Bute TSI, introduced a new volunteer and employee assistance programme - which is free to TSI members. He announced that Spectrum Life, an Irish company which already works with Highland Council, UHI, Strathclyde University and the Scottish Government, will deliver the service. 

"This initiative will support 1,700 people across our membership, both volunteers and employees," he said.

"Some of those working in our sector will encounter the trauma of others or they may need support with their own life events. Spectrum Life will provide up to six counselling sessions per issue per person, a digital wellbeing app, live fitness classes, discounts and advice on financial, debt and legal matters. We are proud to be the first TSI in Scotland to offer this level of support."

Special guest Duncan MacNeil - Donnchadh MacNèill - from the Furan Gaelic Centre announced the introduction of the Gaelic Volunteer of the Year award in 2025, adding a new dimension to future celebrations.

Oban and Lorn’s exceptional performance at the Argyll and Bute Volunteer of the Year Awards is testament to the dedication and hard work of volunteers across the region and once more demonstrates the vital, selfless duties these people carry out within our communities.

Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface is funded by the Scottish Government to be a central source of knowledge about the Third Sector locally; local and national policy and how it may affect third sector organisations, communities and citizens and how the third sector can contribute to those agendas.