A submission in this category should demonstrate
A submission in this category should demonstrate
A submission in this category should demonstrate
*New category for 2025* This award will recognise the social impact benefits of an activity, project, programme, initiative, or policy on individuals and communities. Positive examples of social impact could include: job creation; improved access to services and facilities - education, healthcare, leisure, and cultural experiences; reduced crime; improved safety;
environmental/conservation; cultural preservation; scheme impact mitigation strategies. Submissions should capture the positive benefits and impact on individuals and communities. Evidence such as testimonies, examples of societal benefits and where possible, monetary value should support the submission.
*New category for 2025* This award will recognise the social impact benefits of an activity, project, programme, initiative, or policy on individuals and communities. Positive examples of social impact could include: job creation; improved access to services and facilities - education, healthcare, leisure, and cultural experiences; reduced crime; improved safety;
environmental/conservation; cultural preservation; scheme impact mitigation strategies. Submissions should capture the positive benefits and impact on individuals and communities. Evidence such as testimonies, examples of societal benefits and where possible, monetary value should support the submission.
PREVIOUS WINNERS
PREVIOUS WINNERS
PREVIOUS WINNERS
AGS Airports
Aberdeen International Airport
Aberdeen International Airport has deepened its social impact through a range of community-focused initiatives. In partnership with AberNecessities, it raised over £65,000 in 2024, directly benefiting more than 250 underprivileged children through essential supplies like clothing and baby formula. Its popular Runway Run event drew nearly 400 participants, raising over £50,000 for causes including the Forget Me Not Club. The airport’s ABZ Propeller Fund also supported 24 grassroots organisations with £30,000 in funding, prioritising education, sustainability, and regeneration. Beyond funding, AIA engaged in youth development through the DYW Young Person’s Guarantee, forging stronger ties with local schools. These efforts reflect a strategic, inclusive approach to corporate social responsibility — fostering cohesion, promoting wellbeing, and delivering tangible value to the wider Aberdeen community.
AGS Airports
Aberdeen International Airport
Aberdeen International Airport has deepened its social impact through a range of community-focused initiatives. In partnership with AberNecessities, it raised over £65,000 in 2024, directly benefiting more than 250 underprivileged children through essential supplies like clothing and baby formula. Its popular Runway Run event drew nearly 400 participants, raising over £50,000 for causes including the Forget Me Not Club. The airport’s ABZ Propeller Fund also supported 24 grassroots organisations with £30,000 in funding, prioritising education, sustainability, and regeneration. Beyond funding, AIA engaged in youth development through the DYW Young Person’s Guarantee, forging stronger ties with local schools. These efforts reflect a strategic, inclusive approach to corporate social responsibility — fostering cohesion, promoting wellbeing, and delivering tangible value to the wider Aberdeen community.
AGS Airports
Aberdeen International Airport
Aberdeen International Airport has deepened its social impact through a range of community-focused initiatives. In partnership with AberNecessities, it raised over £65,000 in 2024, directly benefiting more than 250 underprivileged children through essential supplies like clothing and baby formula. Its popular Runway Run event drew nearly 400 participants, raising over £50,000 for causes including the Forget Me Not Club. The airport’s ABZ Propeller Fund also supported 24 grassroots organisations with £30,000 in funding, prioritising education, sustainability, and regeneration. Beyond funding, AIA engaged in youth development through the DYW Young Person’s Guarantee, forging stronger ties with local schools. These efforts reflect a strategic, inclusive approach to corporate social responsibility — fostering cohesion, promoting wellbeing, and delivering tangible value to the wider Aberdeen community.
Badenoch & Strathspey Community ConnXions
Super Motability!
HIGHLY COMMENDED
This small Highland charity delivers essential, accessible transport services across a rural population of 14,000, many of whom are older or disabled. With support from the Motability Foundation, it replaced two minibuses, enabling nearly 7,600 journeys in a year, covering over 43,000 miles. The charity supports clients in accessing everything from healthcare and shopping to social events, creating an estimated £343,000 in social value through improved affordability, increased independence, and reduced healthcare costs. Importantly, 95% of clients have a disability that makes other transport options inaccessible. Trips are delivered with exceptional care and cost-efficiency, providing a crucial lifeline in an area with limited services. The initiative has received national recognition and exemplifies how small-scale, community-led transport can make a big impact.
Badenoch & Strathspey Community ConnXions
Super Motability!
HIGHLY COMMENDED
This small Highland charity delivers essential, accessible transport services across a rural population of 14,000, many of whom are older or disabled. With support from the Motability Foundation, it replaced two minibuses, enabling nearly 7,600 journeys in a year, covering over 43,000 miles. The charity supports clients in accessing everything from healthcare and shopping to social events, creating an estimated £343,000 in social value through improved affordability, increased independence, and reduced healthcare costs. Importantly, 95% of clients have a disability that makes other transport options inaccessible. Trips are delivered with exceptional care and cost-efficiency, providing a crucial lifeline in an area with limited services. The initiative has received national recognition and exemplifies how small-scale, community-led transport can make a big impact.
Badenoch & Strathspey Community ConnXions
Super Motability!
HIGHLY COMMENDED
This small Highland charity delivers essential, accessible transport services across a rural population of 14,000, many of whom are older or disabled. With support from the Motability Foundation, it replaced two minibuses, enabling nearly 7,600 journeys in a year, covering over 43,000 miles. The charity supports clients in accessing everything from healthcare and shopping to social events, creating an estimated £343,000 in social value through improved affordability, increased independence, and reduced healthcare costs. Importantly, 95% of clients have a disability that makes other transport options inaccessible. Trips are delivered with exceptional care and cost-efficiency, providing a crucial lifeline in an area with limited services. The initiative has received national recognition and exemplifies how small-scale, community-led transport can make a big impact.
Cycling Scotland with Employability Orkney
Supporting Bike Reuse Across Orkney
In partnership with Cycling Scotland, Employability Orkney has created a circular economy initiative that reduces waste and boosts employability. The project rescues second-hand bikes, refurbishes them, and redistributes them across Orkney — a region with limited cycling infrastructure and retail options. Improved storage facilities and repair tools have enabled 62 bikes to be donated so far, with many shared with community groups. Twelve residents have been trained in bike repair, and six have earned CYTEC qualifications, supporting skill-building and job readiness. Repaired bikes are sold at Restart, a local charity shop, with profits reinvested into Employability Orkney. The project not only promotes sustainable travel but also strengthens community resilience, creating environmental, economic, and social benefits in a remote island setting.
Cycling Scotland with Employability Orkney
Supporting Bike Reuse Across Orkney
In partnership with Cycling Scotland, Employability Orkney has created a circular economy initiative that reduces waste and boosts employability. The project rescues second-hand bikes, refurbishes them, and redistributes them across Orkney — a region with limited cycling infrastructure and retail options. Improved storage facilities and repair tools have enabled 62 bikes to be donated so far, with many shared with community groups. Twelve residents have been trained in bike repair, and six have earned CYTEC qualifications, supporting skill-building and job readiness. Repaired bikes are sold at Restart, a local charity shop, with profits reinvested into Employability Orkney. The project not only promotes sustainable travel but also strengthens community resilience, creating environmental, economic, and social benefits in a remote island setting.
Cycling Scotland with Employability Orkney
Supporting Bike Reuse Across Orkney
In partnership with Cycling Scotland, Employability Orkney has created a circular economy initiative that reduces waste and boosts employability. The project rescues second-hand bikes, refurbishes them, and redistributes them across Orkney — a region with limited cycling infrastructure and retail options. Improved storage facilities and repair tools have enabled 62 bikes to be donated so far, with many shared with community groups. Twelve residents have been trained in bike repair, and six have earned CYTEC qualifications, supporting skill-building and job readiness. Repaired bikes are sold at Restart, a local charity shop, with profits reinvested into Employability Orkney. The project not only promotes sustainable travel but also strengthens community resilience, creating environmental, economic, and social benefits in a remote island setting.
Lothian Buses
Lothian and Shelter Scotland
Lothian Buses partnered with Shelter Scotland to donate unclaimed lost property for resale or reuse, supporting people affected by Edinburgh’s housing emergency. Launched in April 2024, the initiative has already seen over 5,700 items donated, with 2,500 sold and £11,758 raised for Shelter’s vital services. Items are sold in Shelter shops or donated to those in need, helping fund emergency helplines and housing support. The scheme gives these goods a second life, contributes to Lothian’s sustainability goals, and helps stock Shelter’s retail network with quality items. The project demonstrates how practical partnerships can tackle social issues, reduce waste, and directly support vulnerable communities — making a real difference through everyday operations.
Lothian Buses
Lothian and Shelter Scotland
Lothian Buses partnered with Shelter Scotland to donate unclaimed lost property for resale or reuse, supporting people affected by Edinburgh’s housing emergency. Launched in April 2024, the initiative has already seen over 5,700 items donated, with 2,500 sold and £11,758 raised for Shelter’s vital services. Items are sold in Shelter shops or donated to those in need, helping fund emergency helplines and housing support. The scheme gives these goods a second life, contributes to Lothian’s sustainability goals, and helps stock Shelter’s retail network with quality items. The project demonstrates how practical partnerships can tackle social issues, reduce waste, and directly support vulnerable communities — making a real difference through everyday operations.
Lothian Buses
Lothian and Shelter Scotland
Lothian Buses partnered with Shelter Scotland to donate unclaimed lost property for resale or reuse, supporting people affected by Edinburgh’s housing emergency. Launched in April 2024, the initiative has already seen over 5,700 items donated, with 2,500 sold and £11,758 raised for Shelter’s vital services. Items are sold in Shelter shops or donated to those in need, helping fund emergency helplines and housing support. The scheme gives these goods a second life, contributes to Lothian’s sustainability goals, and helps stock Shelter’s retail network with quality items. The project demonstrates how practical partnerships can tackle social issues, reduce waste, and directly support vulnerable communities — making a real difference through everyday operations.
Lothian and Police Scotland
Operation Crackle
WINNER
In response to serious antisocial behaviour affecting services during Halloween and Bonfire Night, Lothian and Police Scotland launched Operation Crackle—a joint strategy to enhance staff safety and protect public transport. Over 25 joint patrols, real-time collaboration in Lothian’s control room, and follow-up investigations led to 61 arrests. The initiative extended to training with special constables, driver engagement sessions, and school visits involving fire and police services. Education programmes like the Junior Cop initiative promoted safe, respectful behaviour on public transport. This strong, ongoing partnership between operator and police shows how proactive collaboration can reduce incidents, reassure staff and passengers, and improve community safety.
Lothian and Police Scotland
Operation Crackle
WINNER
In response to serious antisocial behaviour affecting services during Halloween and Bonfire Night, Lothian and Police Scotland launched Operation Crackle—a joint strategy to enhance staff safety and protect public transport. Over 25 joint patrols, real-time collaboration in Lothian’s control room, and follow-up investigations led to 61 arrests. The initiative extended to training with special constables, driver engagement sessions, and school visits involving fire and police services. Education programmes like the Junior Cop initiative promoted safe, respectful behaviour on public transport. This strong, ongoing partnership between operator and police shows how proactive collaboration can reduce incidents, reassure staff and passengers, and improve community safety.
Lothian and Police Scotland
Operation Crackle
WINNER
In response to serious antisocial behaviour affecting services during Halloween and Bonfire Night, Lothian and Police Scotland launched Operation Crackle—a joint strategy to enhance staff safety and protect public transport. Over 25 joint patrols, real-time collaboration in Lothian’s control room, and follow-up investigations led to 61 arrests. The initiative extended to training with special constables, driver engagement sessions, and school visits involving fire and police services. Education programmes like the Junior Cop initiative promoted safe, respectful behaviour on public transport. This strong, ongoing partnership between operator and police shows how proactive collaboration can reduce incidents, reassure staff and passengers, and improve community safety.
Marston Holdings
Partnership with Social Bite
In response to the growing visibility of homelessness through their frontline roles, Marston Holdings launched a partnership with Social Bite to help rough sleepers transition into employment. The initiative provides individuals with training and recruitment support, enabling them to take on parking enforcement roles — often their first formal employment. Around 20 people have joined Marston’s teams, particularly in Edinburgh, where they’ve used their lived experience and interpersonal skills to thrive in demanding public-facing roles. Social Bite continues to support recruits through training and ancillary services. This innovative partnership not only addresses homelessness but demonstrates how companies can create inclusive, purpose-driven employment pathways that benefit individuals and wider communities alike.
Marston Holdings
Partnership with Social Bite
In response to the growing visibility of homelessness through their frontline roles, Marston Holdings launched a partnership with Social Bite to help rough sleepers transition into employment. The initiative provides individuals with training and recruitment support, enabling them to take on parking enforcement roles — often their first formal employment. Around 20 people have joined Marston’s teams, particularly in Edinburgh, where they’ve used their lived experience and interpersonal skills to thrive in demanding public-facing roles. Social Bite continues to support recruits through training and ancillary services. This innovative partnership not only addresses homelessness but demonstrates how companies can create inclusive, purpose-driven employment pathways that benefit individuals and wider communities alike.
Marston Holdings
Partnership with Social Bite
In response to the growing visibility of homelessness through their frontline roles, Marston Holdings launched a partnership with Social Bite to help rough sleepers transition into employment. The initiative provides individuals with training and recruitment support, enabling them to take on parking enforcement roles — often their first formal employment. Around 20 people have joined Marston’s teams, particularly in Edinburgh, where they’ve used their lived experience and interpersonal skills to thrive in demanding public-facing roles. Social Bite continues to support recruits through training and ancillary services. This innovative partnership not only addresses homelessness but demonstrates how companies can create inclusive, purpose-driven employment pathways that benefit individuals and wider communities alike.
Network Rail
Levenmouth Rail Link Project
This transformative project has reconnected Leven and Cameron Bridge to Scotland’s rail network after 55 years, thanks to collaboration between Transport Scotland, Network Rail, ScotRail, Fife Council, and others. Two new stations and an hourly service to Edinburgh (doubling to two per hour from May 2025) were delivered alongside a wide-reaching community engagement strategy. Over 6,300 young people took part in STEM and rail safety activities, and 480+ volunteer hours supported outreach. A 10-week Rail Skills Academy helped nine young people into rail careers. Events like Travel with Confidence sessions, local competitions, and a celebratory inaugural journey put the community front and centre. A specially wrapped train now promotes the Levenmouth region network-wide. The project is projected to deliver £20 million in social value through job creation, infrastructure investment, and long-term community benefits.
Network Rail
Levenmouth Rail Link Project
This transformative project has reconnected Leven and Cameron Bridge to Scotland’s rail network after 55 years, thanks to collaboration between Transport Scotland, Network Rail, ScotRail, Fife Council, and others. Two new stations and an hourly service to Edinburgh (doubling to two per hour from May 2025) were delivered alongside a wide-reaching community engagement strategy. Over 6,300 young people took part in STEM and rail safety activities, and 480+ volunteer hours supported outreach. A 10-week Rail Skills Academy helped nine young people into rail careers. Events like Travel with Confidence sessions, local competitions, and a celebratory inaugural journey put the community front and centre. A specially wrapped train now promotes the Levenmouth region network-wide. The project is projected to deliver £20 million in social value through job creation, infrastructure investment, and long-term community benefits.
Network Rail
Levenmouth Rail Link Project
This transformative project has reconnected Leven and Cameron Bridge to Scotland’s rail network after 55 years, thanks to collaboration between Transport Scotland, Network Rail, ScotRail, Fife Council, and others. Two new stations and an hourly service to Edinburgh (doubling to two per hour from May 2025) were delivered alongside a wide-reaching community engagement strategy. Over 6,300 young people took part in STEM and rail safety activities, and 480+ volunteer hours supported outreach. A 10-week Rail Skills Academy helped nine young people into rail careers. Events like Travel with Confidence sessions, local competitions, and a celebratory inaugural journey put the community front and centre. A specially wrapped train now promotes the Levenmouth region network-wide. The project is projected to deliver £20 million in social value through job creation, infrastructure investment, and long-term community benefits.
Network Rail
Scotland’s Railway Schools Partnership
Network Rail, in collaboration with Story Contracting, AmcoGiffen and QTS, launched a wide-reaching Schools Partnership to deliver social and educational value. Working with schools in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Motherwell and Perth, the initiative refurbished playgrounds, provided 103 donated bikes, and offered bike storage and outdoor learning spaces. Over 2,800 volunteer hours supported this effort, which also included STEM learning activities, bridge-building demos, and VR-based engineering experiences. Rail safety sessions reached over 1,200 pupils, aiming to reduce trespass incidents. The programme’s social value is significant: £273,980 annually from bike use alone, £72,800 from volunteering, and £25,992 in donated storage space. With a focus on inclusion, learning, and wellbeing, this initiative is a leading example of how transport infrastructure can deliver sustained community benefit beyond its core function.
Network Rail
Scotland’s Railway Schools Partnership
Network Rail, in collaboration with Story Contracting, AmcoGiffen and QTS, launched a wide-reaching Schools Partnership to deliver social and educational value. Working with schools in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Motherwell and Perth, the initiative refurbished playgrounds, provided 103 donated bikes, and offered bike storage and outdoor learning spaces. Over 2,800 volunteer hours supported this effort, which also included STEM learning activities, bridge-building demos, and VR-based engineering experiences. Rail safety sessions reached over 1,200 pupils, aiming to reduce trespass incidents. The programme’s social value is significant: £273,980 annually from bike use alone, £72,800 from volunteering, and £25,992 in donated storage space. With a focus on inclusion, learning, and wellbeing, this initiative is a leading example of how transport infrastructure can deliver sustained community benefit beyond its core function.
Network Rail
Scotland’s Railway Schools Partnership
Network Rail, in collaboration with Story Contracting, AmcoGiffen and QTS, launched a wide-reaching Schools Partnership to deliver social and educational value. Working with schools in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Motherwell and Perth, the initiative refurbished playgrounds, provided 103 donated bikes, and offered bike storage and outdoor learning spaces. Over 2,800 volunteer hours supported this effort, which also included STEM learning activities, bridge-building demos, and VR-based engineering experiences. Rail safety sessions reached over 1,200 pupils, aiming to reduce trespass incidents. The programme’s social value is significant: £273,980 annually from bike use alone, £72,800 from volunteering, and £25,992 in donated storage space. With a focus on inclusion, learning, and wellbeing, this initiative is a leading example of how transport infrastructure can deliver sustained community benefit beyond its core function.
QTS Group Ltd
East Kilbride Enhancement Project Rail Skills Academy
QTS Training launched the Rail Skills Academy in partnership with Network Rail, South Lanarkshire Council, and key contractors, offering a 10-week training and work experience programme for young people facing significant barriers to employment. Eleven participants, including those with neurodiversity and care experience, received industry qualifications and hands-on experience, followed by guaranteed job interviews. All 11 secured roles in the rail industry. The programme builds confidence, transitions participants off benefits, and opens pathways to long-term careers. More than a recruitment exercise, the academy demonstrates a commitment to inclusion, workforce renewal, and social mobility — delivering lasting personal and economic benefits to individuals and the rail sector alike.
QTS Group Ltd
East Kilbride Enhancement Project Rail Skills Academy
QTS Training launched the Rail Skills Academy in partnership with Network Rail, South Lanarkshire Council, and key contractors, offering a 10-week training and work experience programme for young people facing significant barriers to employment. Eleven participants, including those with neurodiversity and care experience, received industry qualifications and hands-on experience, followed by guaranteed job interviews. All 11 secured roles in the rail industry. The programme builds confidence, transitions participants off benefits, and opens pathways to long-term careers. More than a recruitment exercise, the academy demonstrates a commitment to inclusion, workforce renewal, and social mobility — delivering lasting personal and economic benefits to individuals and the rail sector alike.
QTS Group Ltd
East Kilbride Enhancement Project Rail Skills Academy
QTS Training launched the Rail Skills Academy in partnership with Network Rail, South Lanarkshire Council, and key contractors, offering a 10-week training and work experience programme for young people facing significant barriers to employment. Eleven participants, including those with neurodiversity and care experience, received industry qualifications and hands-on experience, followed by guaranteed job interviews. All 11 secured roles in the rail industry. The programme builds confidence, transitions participants off benefits, and opens pathways to long-term careers. More than a recruitment exercise, the academy demonstrates a commitment to inclusion, workforce renewal, and social mobility — delivering lasting personal and economic benefits to individuals and the rail sector alike.
Stantec
The Stanctuary Concept Design
Stantec’s “Stanctuary” concept in Stranraer reimagines urban greenspace by restoring the Black Stank River and creating a vibrant community hub. Designed around themes of social value, biodiversity, connectivity, and heritage, proposals include outdoor learning areas, community allotments, quiet gardens, wildlife observation points, and a bike skills park. The project has been developed through close community consultation, with facilities designed for all ages and abilities. The design integrates ecological restoration with public use and wellbeing. Stantec’s social value modelling predicts an annual return of £2.2 million for an estimated £10 million investment over five years — a 1.2:1 return. With benefits for youth, older adults, local organisations and the environment, the Stanctuary offers a visionary template for green urban regeneration.
Stantec
The Stanctuary Concept Design
Stantec’s “Stanctuary” concept in Stranraer reimagines urban greenspace by restoring the Black Stank River and creating a vibrant community hub. Designed around themes of social value, biodiversity, connectivity, and heritage, proposals include outdoor learning areas, community allotments, quiet gardens, wildlife observation points, and a bike skills park. The project has been developed through close community consultation, with facilities designed for all ages and abilities. The design integrates ecological restoration with public use and wellbeing. Stantec’s social value modelling predicts an annual return of £2.2 million for an estimated £10 million investment over five years — a 1.2:1 return. With benefits for youth, older adults, local organisations and the environment, the Stanctuary offers a visionary template for green urban regeneration.
Stantec
The Stanctuary Concept Design
Stantec’s “Stanctuary” concept in Stranraer reimagines urban greenspace by restoring the Black Stank River and creating a vibrant community hub. Designed around themes of social value, biodiversity, connectivity, and heritage, proposals include outdoor learning areas, community allotments, quiet gardens, wildlife observation points, and a bike skills park. The project has been developed through close community consultation, with facilities designed for all ages and abilities. The design integrates ecological restoration with public use and wellbeing. Stantec’s social value modelling predicts an annual return of £2.2 million for an estimated £10 million investment over five years — a 1.2:1 return. With benefits for youth, older adults, local organisations and the environment, the Stanctuary offers a visionary template for green urban regeneration.