08 July 2020

Falkirk Community Trust shortlisted for 3 industry awards

This morning the winners were announced online in the prestigious Community Leisure UK Awards 2020 which aims to champion and showcase the outstanding achievements of member trusts throughout the 2018/19 year

This morning the winners were announced online in the prestigious Community Leisure UK Awards 2020 which aims to champion and showcase the outstanding achievements of member trusts throughout the 2018/19 year.

Although this year’s event was unfortunately cancelled, judging had already taken place prior to Covid-19 and up against some fierce competition Falkirk Community Trust (FCT) was shortlisted across three out of nine categories. Although we didn’t win this time round, we are aware the quality of applications was very high and we are thrilled to have been shortlisted.

Maureen Campbell OBE, Chief Executive of Falkirk Community Trust said “To be shortlisted in not just one but in three separate categories in these prestigious awards is a fantastic achievement. I am immensely proud of what our staff achieve on a daily basis and delighted that our efforts have been recognised at a national level. I’d also like to congratulate all the winning projects and inspiring individuals who are collectively improving lives in their communities. ”

Lynne Boslem, was shortlisted in the Outstanding Volunteer Award category. FCT’s Community Sport Hub Officer identified Lynne as a “Community Champion” very early in the inception of Camelon Community Sport Hub. The Camelon Community Sport Hub is an innovative area-based model fully supported by FCT. It was recognised early on that Lynne was passionate about her local area and FCT have supported her every step of the way in achieving her vision for gymnastics.

The development of the gymnastics programme is one of several programmes and initiatives that Lynne is a part of. Lynne is a member of the Tamfourhill Community Centre Committee and works tirelessly to serve the needs of the community.

In the Community Impact Award – Physical Activity category, the “Active Forth” project was shortlisted. The Active & Step Forth physical activity referral & walking for health programme aims to get the population of Falkirk more active. Customers have the opportunity of a personalised gym programme and classes such as Otago, Strength & Balance, Circuits, Aqua Gym & Spinning at our four clubs. FCT works very closely with NHS Forth Valley and the Trust has had over 1,500 referrals since January 2019.

Finally, in the Community Impact Awards – Arts, Culture and Libraries category “Care Words” was shortlisted. In 2015, Falkirk Libraries worked in partnership with a local Alzheimer’s Scotland group to pilot reading and reminiscences sessions. Feedback showed that it gave participants a chance to share memories with each other. This meaningful activity was also fun and enjoyable. It was also beneficial for Day Care staff, who used the information shared to build individual’s support plans.

The project was developed further and received three years funding from The National Lottery was secured to launch Care Words, a new free library service. Between October 2018 and December 2019, Care Words have delivered 143 sessions and reached 258 older people.