KCCF attends Age Scotland annual awards and strategy launch: Action for Change in Older Age
- Health and Wellbeing
- Social Inclusion
Last week, KCCF was delighted to attend strategic partner Age Scotland’s annual awards and conference in Perth, which also marked the launch of their new strategy: Action for Change in Older Age. The event brought together organisations and individuals committed to improving the lives of older people across Scotland.
Age Scotland continues to tackle the challenges faced by older communities – financial insecurity, limited access to health and care, and widespread loneliness -through vital services such as Advice, Information and Friendship, which KCCF proudly supports.
Katherine Crawford, Chief Executive of Age Scotland, shared a powerful message:
“Scotland has a rapidly ageing population but lacks a plan to support that. The challenges of financial insecurity, low income and poverty faced by older people are significant, and timely access to health and care is a struggle. Older people find themselves excluded from society and there is an epidemic of loneliness. The contribution older people make to society, the economy, their community and family, and in the workplace is immeasurable yet so few feel that they are properly heard, recognised or valued. This must change.”
A highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to eight outstanding individuals and groups making a difference in the lives of older people. Among them was Bridget Donnelly, named Age Scotland’s first-ever Community Champion.
This award celebrates everyday acts of kindness and support that have a profound impact. Bridget was recognised for her tireless dedication to residents of John Galt House in Greenock – delivering newspapers, hosting afternoon teas, running errands, and offering a helping hand whenever needed.
Bridget said:
“I come in everyday to do the daily newspaper delivery and on a Friday afternoon I do the afternoon tea and deliver fish and chips on a Saturday. I take residents that need assistance down to the bank or go shopping with them. I always tell them to phone me anytime and if they need anything I can certainly go and do it for them.”
Residents describe Bridget as “first-class” and “irreplaceable,” with support warden Fiona McWilliams adding, “She’s like our eyes and ears. Nothing’s too much bother – she even visits people in hospital. We didn’t tell her we’d nominated her, and she was stunned to win.”
You can learn more about Bridget and the other award winners here.
Huge thanks to Age Scotland for their warm hospitality and continued partnership.
