Nominate now for Provost’s Community Awards

Provost Lorraine Cameron is calling on Express readers not to miss out as the nomination deadline for her Community Awards approaches.

The awards, which are into their third decade, aim to give civic recognition to those who work or live in Renfrewshire and are making a difference to their community.

This year, nominations can be made in six categories, including a new Arts and Culture award which has been created to find the hidden, or not so hidden, gems who light up Renfrewshire’s cultural scene.

Five other awards - Community Group, Community Volunteer, Sporting Achievement, Carers’ Award and Employer of the Year - give an opportunity for local people to give recognition to their colleagues, friends and family for the work they do in their community.

Provost Cameron said: “We’ve had a fantastic number of entries already but we want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to make their nominations.

“I meet so many inspiring groups and people in my role as Provost so I know the talent and dedication is out there, but I need the local community to nominate them.

“If a person, or a group, is making a real difference to your life or is making your local area a better place, then please put them forward and give them the recognition they deserve.”

The closing dat e for nominations is Friday, December 1.

This year, Employer of the Year is sponsored by UNISON Renfrewshire and encourages nominations for employers who have provided a positive working environment for their staff.

Mark Ferguson, branch secretary, said: “We represent 52 employers in the local area and we’re delighted to sponsor the Employer of the Year Award.

“This award recognises employers who value their workforce and contribute to both the local economy and community in Renfrewshire.

“If your employer has gone above and beyond the call of duty, then make sure you nominate them before the deadline.”

Sponsored by Glasgow Airport, the Community Volunteer award recognises those who give their time and effort for nothing more than the knowledge that they are making a difference to their community.

Craig Martin, head of HR at the airport, said: “Glasgow Airport are proud to serve Renfrewshire.

“We have strong connections with our local community through our staff and customers, therefore we are delighted to sponsor this award and recognise individuals who are making a real difference in their local area.”

The Community Group award is sponsored by Paisley’s Piazza Shopping Centre and celebrates the organisations in Renfrewshire that have a positive effect on their communities

Sponsor Acre Industrial will present the Sporting Achievement award to the person, team or group who have represented Renfrewshire to a high standard this year in the sporting arena.

Former Renfrewshire Provost Nancy Allison, who has been a part of each of the Community Awards since its inception, donates the Carers Award which recognises anyone who cares for a relative, friend or neighbour.

Anyone who lives or works in Renfrewshire can be nominated.

Nominations can be completed online at www. r e n f r e w s h i r e . g o v. u k / provostawards and printed nomination forms are available at council offices.

The winners in each category will be invited to a special ceremony which will be held in March next year.

For more information, email provostawards@renfrewshire. gov.uk