Innovation Award
Winner – Branching Out
Branching Out is an innovative partnership project offering greenspace and conservation on referral for mental health service users. Patients, and referring staff, are supported to become active in their environment, to learn new skills and to progress onto local community volunteer projects, training and outdoor activities.
Highly Commended - Carrifran Wildwood: Ecological Restoration from the Grass Roots
The visionary Carrifran Wildwood project of Borders Forest Trust aims to restore a whole valley in the Moffat Hills to its original wilderness state. It was conceived, planned and brought to fruition by volunteers, and since 1st January 2000 half a million native trees and shrubs have been planted.
Highly Commended - Craigengillan: A Model for Community Regeneration Through Conservation
Craigengillan is an ancient and fascinating estate of 3000 acres, including a wide variety of habitats. It adjoins a former coal mining community, beset by high unemployment and attendant problems. Working together to restore Craigengillan the community has been united, vandalism is history and everyone has a sense of protective ownership.