The Seriously Social Awards aim to shine a spotlight on the work of charitable trusts and social enterprises in delivering social good and putting people above profit, helping to shift the national narrative from deliverers of public leisure and culture to deliverers of social good. The awards showcase the difference they make to individuals, communities, local authorities and the state. West Lothian Leisure is one of a handful of Scottish Leisure Trusts to be shortlisted for these awards.
One of the charities’ long-standing volunteers, Eileen Milne, has been shortlisted for the Outstanding Volunteer Award. Eileen has over 17 years of experience at West Lothian Leisure volunteering with the Ageing Well Programme and delivering exercises classes for communities across West Lothian. Now in her eighties, Eileen has been thoroughly dedicated to improving the lives of others by helping them become active, keep active, and increase their physical health and well-being.
The Xcite Ageing Well initiative was established in 1998 and is designed to get older people over 50 to be as active as possible through physical activities such as line dancing, walking, and social groups including Knit and Natter and Singing for Health. Eileen leads seated exercise sessions, organises monthly concerts, and facilitates craft groups, bringing joy, camaraderie and valuable social interaction to those who might otherwise feel isolated.
Eileen said: “I have always worked with people and when I retired twenty years ago, I wanted to continue doing that. It brings me joy and satisfaction to be able to help people who might not otherwise have any social interactions, if it wasn’t for the classes I run. It is beneficial to our well-being to engage with others, and the camaraderie within the group enhances participants’ mental health.”
Ben Lamb, CEO of West Lothian Leisure, said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted for this award and so proud of Eileen who has dedicated 17 years of her life to the West Lothian Leisure Ageing Well programme, with an incredible commitment to help those over 50 to get active and stay active. As someone in her eighties, she is an incredible role model and an amazing example of the benefits to be reaped by staying active in old age. Eileen continues to bring joy and connection to the communities in which she serves. Her passion is clear to see, and she is thoroughly deserving of this award. We wish her all the best for the final in November”!
The 2024 Seriously Social Awards ceremony is taking place on 13th November in Manchester and will be hosted by Olympic Gold medallist, Sally Gunnell OBE.
To find out more about the Seriously Social Awards, please visit: Homepage - Community Leisure UK
