Double Success as Denis Law Legacy Trust Volunteers Honoured with Prestigious Saltire Summit Awards

We are delighted to announce that this month, not one but two of our incredible young volunteers achieved The Scottish Government prestigious Saltire Summit Award.

The Saltire Summit Award represents the highest honour within the Scottish Government’s national youth volunteering programme, recognising exceptional young people aged 12 to 25 who have made a significant and lasting contribution through their volunteering efforts.

Seventeen-year-old Denis Law Legacy Trust volunteer Marcus from Aberdeen had the honour of attending Aberdeen’s Town House, where he received his award from the Lord Provost, Dr David Cameron, an experience that made the occasion all the more memorable.

Marcus with the Lord Provost, Dr David Cameron

Marcus was a participant at a young age before volunteering at 14, and has grown into a valued team member, developing strong leadership, creativity and teamwork skills, developing into one of our most committed volunteers.

Marcus stands out as he consistently goes above and beyond, representing DLLT in a variety of ways. He starred in our volunteering video, represented DLLT for Design FC’s World Cup Youth Initiative, appeared on “That’s TV Aberdeen,” and presents at the advisory board meetings in front of our trustees. His professionalism and communication skills have impressed everyone, and his contributions have helped raise the profile of our work in the community. Marcus was also recently selected to join Granite City Speaks, our Youth Forum, where he will continue to influence decisions and advocate for young people.

Through volunteering, Marcus has developed strong communication and leadership skills, completed all training and achieving Bronze, Silver and Gold RGUplus Awards. As part of Denis Law Academy, he has further built confidence and explored career pathways, including collaborating with SHMU on a podcast project.

Marcus’ dedication has made a lasting impact on both our organisation and the wider community, demonstrating the transformative power of volunteering.

A huge thank you to Mike Melvin from ACVO and Volunteer Aberdeen for helping organise the Lord Provost presentation.

Kelsey and Nikki from DLLT, with Caitlin

The celebrations continued back at our office just as proudly for our second award recipient, Caitlin. Marking the achievement with a well-deserved celebration lunch surrounded by the DDLT team.

Since joining the Denis Law Legacy Trust in April 2023, Caitlin has become an invaluable volunteer. She began at a StreetSport session in Garthdee as a shy individual, but quickly grew in confidence, expanding her involvement across Kincorth, Lochside, Northfield and Torry, often volunteering up to four times a week.

Caitlin went on to join the Granite City Speaks youth forum, where she became a passionate advocate for young people. She contributed to initiatives including food banks, clothing drives and youth engagement work with Police Scotland, proudly representing her community.

Through volunteering, Caitlin has developed confidence, leadership skills and a strong sense of purpose. She joined the Denis Law Academy, supporting her progression into college, completed her Bronze, Silver and Gold RGUplus Awards, and took part in the NHS Autumn School at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. This placement was a week long professional work experience programme within Aberdeen City Hospital. The feedback Caitlin received from the placement leads showcased her growth, highlighting her positive attitude, willingness to learn and professional communication skills. This programme helped Caitlin and pointed her in the right directions towards her chosen career. This is another achievement Caitlin can be very proud of.

Both awards recognise outstanding dedication and commitment to supporting their local communities, and we couldn’t be prouder of everything Marcus and Caitlin have achieved.

Huge congratulations to you both!