High Life Highland has secured a landmark victory at the inaugural Seriously Social Awards in Manchester, cementing the Highland region’s position at the forefront of environmental innovation.
The prestigious ceremony, hosted by Olympic gold medallist Sally Gunnell OBE, saw the Highland charity triumph in the Environment category, beating out stiff competition from across the United Kingdom.
High Life Highland Chief Executive Steve Walsh expressed his delight at receiving the award, praising particularly the organisation’s Ranger service for their tireless environmental protection efforts.
The charity’s winning submission showcased an impressive array of local initiatives, including the transformative GROW gardeners project at Inverness Botanic Gardens and an innovative restoration of Highland Folk Museum’s historic curling pond.
A groundbreaking partnership between the Learning for Life team and local asylum seekers has created new pathways for environmental education, while Highland libraries have evolved into vibrant hubs of climate engagement.
Perhaps most striking has been the Highland Wildflower Meadow Mosaic project, which has successfully established over 60 flourishing meadows across the region through community volunteering efforts.
Countryside Ranger Service Manager Imogen Furlong highlighted the organisation’s recent signing of The Highland Charter for Climate, Nature and Health as further evidence of their environmental commitment.
The award recognises High Life Highland’s comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship, from practical conservation work to innovative educational programmes designed to connect Highland communities with their natural heritage.
This national recognition arrives at a crucial time, as the organisation continues to expand its environmental initiatives while maintaining its core mission of Making Life Better across the Highland region.
The triumph in Manchester represents not just an organisational achievement but a victory for the entire Highland community, showcasing how local action can lead to national recognition in environmental stewardship.
