Everybody needs good neighbours!

City celebrates Good Neighbours  

Neighbours who go that extra mile have been thanked at the City of Edinburgh Council’s first Good Neighbour Awards for their inspirational commitment to their communities.

At a special reception held in Edinburgh’s City Chambers last week, Lord Provost Donald Wilson and Vice Convener for Health, Social Care and Housing, Cllr Joan Griffiths led tributes to the vital support provided by the Council tenants and other residents who had been recognised in the 2016 Good Neighbour Awards.

All nominees were thanked for supporting their neighbours with four winners presented with commemorative glass trophies.

According to residents, winners Linda Orr, Sandra Seaton and Jackie Brunton deserve their recognitions for their continued support and help to their neighbours, whether it be picking up prescriptions or shopping or doing housework for others.  Winner Alistair Blakey was nominated for his tireless work in the Jewel Park and clearing of debris.

Linda, Jackie and Alistair attended the civic ceremony and received their trophies from the Lord Provost. Sandra will be presented hers at a later date.

Alistair (above) said: “I really enjoyed the reception. I’ve never won anything like this in my life and I was very flattered to be nominated.”

In total 20 nominations were received and a panel of volunteer tenant judges and housing staff selected the winners.

Speaking at the event Lord Provost Donald Wilson said: “As Civic Leader I am delighted to present these awards here in the civic heart of the city as people like you are the heart of the city. Wanting to help those around you makes you the sort of people that make Edinburgh the great city that it is. You are the glue that holds our community together and makes the world a better place.”

Cllr Joan Griffiths said: “Despite often facing real hardship and challenges themselves our tenants continue to inspire us with their commitment to looking after their neighbours and local communities. I was delighted to present these awards. This is the first time the Council has run the competition and it was great to see so many nominations.

“These acts of kindness and neighbourliness however big or small make a real difference to our communities and the Council looks forward to repeating the contest next year.”

The awards were organised by the Council’s Tenant Panel, in partnership with Capital Credit Union. Marlene Shiels, Capital Credit Union Chief Executive said: “Capital Credit Union is delighted to sponsor the first ever Good Neighbour Awards. At Capital Credit Union our ethos is ‘people helping people’. We are proud to serve the savings and borrowing needs of local communities, and to go the extra mile to help people make the most out of life, just like the Good Neighbour Award winners”.