The Scotland Loves Local Awards are a celebration of all that is great about our nation’s towns and neighbourhoods – recognising and rewarding unremarkable dedication and commitment towards shaping a sustainable, successful future with localism at its heart.

They are about highlighting the people, places and projects which are leading the way in making a difference, delivering benefits that will help make our communities cleaner, greener, stronger and fairer whether through design, delivery or sheer determination.

Awards include the commendation of a High Street Hero – a business or organisation (or an individual associated with one) which has gone above and beyond to support those around them, whether inside or out with the Covid-19 pandemic. The event will also celebrate inspirational leaders; those who embrace heritage and culture to the benefit of their community, positive place-makers; and businesses who are doing their bit for and responding to the climate emergency.

STP Chief Officer Phil Prentice said:

“Day in, day out people are working tirelessly to make communities across Scotland better places to live, improving the lives of those around them.

“The Scotland Loves Local Awards are a chance to say thank you for all that they do.

“We need people to help us highlight the people, places and projects making communities cleaner, greener, stronger and fairer whether through design, delivery or sheer determination.”

Scotland’s Community Wealth Minister Tom Arthur MSP is backing the call for award nominations. He said:

“Over the past year, our communities have come together to support each other through the pandemic, from supporting local businesses to helping vulnerable neighbours.

“The Scotland Loves Local Awards importantly recognise those who have gone above and beyond. If you know of a person or organisation that has made a difference, I would urge you to nominate them to receive well-deserved recognition.

“The Scottish Government has committed to a £10 million Scotland Loves Local programme to help revitalise our town centres. As we recover from the pandemic we are pushing forward with an ambitious agenda of economic transformation by building wealth in local communities and delivering greater, greener and fairer prosperity.”

To apply, click here. The final closing date for applications is 5pm, Friday 10th September. Recipients will be announced during an awards ceremony to be broadcast on Thursday 25th November 2021.