This week we are asking for people to help us support community groups across Scotland to improve their local spaces. All donations made will be matched by The Big Give. In this blog one of our volunteers will explain what your money will go towards and shares why he loves doing what he does.
What is your motivation for getting involved as a Beautiful Scotland/It’s Your Neighbourhood judge or assessor?
Definitely it’s a people thing, seeing how communities pull together to enhance the area they stay in, the passion individuals have that bands them together to campaign and actualize better outcomes for the area they stay in.
What experience do you have that makes you a good judge/assessor?
I’m not sure I am a good judge, I leave that for others to make up their minds about! I do have over 40 years experience in amenity horticulture and community involvement.
What is your favourite thing about judging/assessing?
Meeting people!
What is some of the best practice you have seen on visits?
Marrying biodiversity with areas of horticultural excellence and community participation. Every judge has their own memories and mine are too many to list but Innellan, North Berwick and East Haven always stick with me.
What are the common improvements you highlight?
Funding opportunities and inclusion of all aspects of the community.
What are the benefits of Beautiful Scotland/It’s Your Neighbourhood for potential applicants?
It can be the gel, the final piece in your jigsaw in helping your community knit together as one, KSB has helped many groups over the years with advice, funding opportunities and just someone to talk to.
We are delighted to have been chosen for The Big Give's 2023 Green Match Fund. Designed specifically for charities working on environmental issues, all donations made through the Green Match Fund will be doubled and these donations will support our Climate and Nature Friendly Neighbourhoods project.
Just 100 donations of £25 will see us reach our target. We're asking you to donate whatever you can afford which will be matched through the Big Give, doubling the impact of your gift and helping us to support more communities and volunteers like Sandy.