• Covid-19

    • Category: Midlothian Volunteer Awards

    Alister Ballantyne (Health in Mind)

    Miriam Leighton on 29 March, 2023

    Alister Ballantyne

    Nominated by: Health in Mind

    It is clear from Ally’s nomination that he has a very long history of volunteering within Midlothian, most recently with Peer Connection Midlothian. It is clear that he invests his time and energy building long lasting relationships to support people with mental health conditions. Over and above 1-2-1 support, Ally has also devoted his time to supported fundraising for Peer Connecting Midlothian, and again has shared his extensive experience to help guide applications to the Midlothian Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund. It is obvious that Ally is regarded as a much loved and valued mentor who should be celebrated with this award.

    Friday Friends (Volunteer Midlothian)

    Miriam Leighton on 29 March, 2023

    Nominated by: Volunteer Midlothian

    We particularly admire and value this excellent example of intergenerational relationships being used to build confidence and better understanding of the challenges faced by younger and older generations, whilst having what appears to be a whole lot fun.

    Evelina Rovenska (Health in Mind)

    Miriam Leighton on 28 March, 2023

    Nominated by: Health in Mind

    We were particularly inspired by your kind, devoted and selflessness in helping others, leading by example in overcoming any barriers including organising and facilitating a Ukrainians support group. 

    Romay Loudon (Volunteer Midlothian)

    Miriam Leighton on 28 March, 2023

    Nominated by: VM Connect Online

    We were inspired by your involvement in supporting and promoting ‘Connect Online’ a new digital skills group running at Pathhead Community Café. A real advocate of technology reaching out to others to encourage participation and building upon the success of the project through delivery in other areas.  

    IMPACT facilitators – Parents Group (CLLE & Sure Start)

    Miriam Leighton on 28 March, 2023

    Impact Facilitators

    Nominated by: Midlothian Council CLLE and Midlothian Sure Start

    We were inspired by the work that IMPACT have been carrying out to improve the wellbeing of our community members. Through the development and introduction of adult wellbeing programmes they have brought members of the community together, enabling them to obtain new skills, establish new friendships and most importantly providing the opportunity for individuals to secure a trusted support network that is there long after they have finished the programme. Feedback from attendees has clearly been very positive and we are delighted to award Lee, Shona and Claire this years Outstanding New Volunteer award. 

    Wendy Dolik (Active Schools)

    Miriam Leighton on 28 March, 2023

    Nominated by: Active Schools

    We particularly admire your significant commitment through your role as an Active Schools volunteer delivering sport/exercise sessions within community schools and recognise your dedication in volunteering to provide extra-curricular opportunities.  

    Julia Pennycuick (Rosewell & District Community Council)

    Miriam Leighton on 28 March, 2023

    Nominated by: Rosewell & District Community Council

    We recognise your dedication to the planning, delivery and maintenance of local wildflower events, several wildflower border areas, sourcing seeds and getting others involved. Not to mention your creative and innovative ways to develop workshops.  

    Beth Campbell (Volunteer Midlothian)

    Miriam Leighton on 28 March, 2023

    Nominated by: Volunteer Midlothian

    We particularly admire your commitment towards supporting residents at Crystalmount Sheltered Housing and your ability to vary your approach whilst building rapport with residents, ensuring positive engagement and fun for all. 

    Ellie Donald (Rosewell Development Trust)

    Miriam Leighton on 28 March, 2023

    Nominated by: Rosewell Development Trust

    We recognise your dedication, enthusiasm and creativity through your role in hosting of the Arts and Crafts for young children and your all-round support as a volunteer with Chatter and Clatter.  

    Calley Thomson (Home Link)

    Miriam Leighton on 28 March, 2023

    Nominated by: Homelink

    We particularly admire your commitment towards improving the lives of others through your role as a befriender with Home Link Family Support offering both emotional and practical support, enabling others to grow in confidence.  

    Midlothian Volunteer Awards 2023

    Miriam Leighton on 6 March, 2023


    The Midlothian Volunteer Awards are all about celebrating the amazing efforts of volunteers in Midlothian.

    The awards take place every year during Volunteers’ Week (from the 1-7th June) and are a great opportunity to promote some of the fabulous volunteering projects that exist in Midlothian.

    Over on our awards webpage, find out more about the categories for 2023 and how you can help recognise the amazing efforts of volunteers in Midlothian.

    Midlothian Volunteer Awards 2022 – Winners

    Miriam Leighton on 16 June, 2022

    Midlothian Volunteer Award Winners 2022

    The Midlothian Volunteer Awards are all about celebrating the amazing efforts of volunteers in Midlothian. The awards take place every year during Volunteers’ Week (from the 1-7th June) and are a great opportunity to promote some of the fabulous volunteering projects that exist in Midlothian.

    Congratulations to this year’s winners (full details here).

    Jim Hiddleston

    Miriam Leighton on 25 May, 2022

    Nominated by: Wellbeing Essentials

    Jim Hiddleston is a long-standing and well-known volunteer in the Roslyn area, however his recent involvement with the new social enterprise ‘Wellbeing Essentials’ has included some incredible work during the latter stages of the Covid pandemic. As part of this project Jim helped to drive forward eight different new start-up initiatives throughout 2021 including the Roslin Rustie Walk, Roslin’s Loving Local Now and Rosslyn Community Bowling Club. Jim’s contributions have made a big impact in Roslin and he is a very valued member of the local community.