LEAP has been awarded Organisation of the Year in VASLan’s 2021 Third Sector Awards for its outstanding work supporting older people throughout South Lanarkshire during the pandemic.

The charity was recognised for its prompt and vital response to older people’s needs which saw it immediately introduce a shopping and pharmacy delivery service, continue to carry our free emergency handyperson work and help alleviate isolation through phone befriending services and online activities.

Accepting the award at Thursday’s (28 October) virtual award ceremony, Georgie Madden, LEAP’s business development manager said: “We are really proud to have been given this award.

“It is for all of our staff and volunteers, past and present, who not only worked incredibly hard throughout the pandemic, but who also worked selflessly and without thought for their health to support older vulnerable and isolated people throughout South Lanarkshire.

“It was quite humbling to watch how everyone threw themselves into this work. This award is testament to their work and dedication, and to all our funders and supporters who have helped make our work possible.”

Host for the event, VASLan CEO Steven Sweeney, specifically talked about LEAP’s remarkable achievement of 29 years of supporting older people in South Lanarkshire.

LEAP continues to support older people in South Lanarkshire through its befriending and handyperson services, online and face-to-face activities, it’s R:evolve Recycle shops and workshops, and its new Home and Garden Maintenance service. It is also about to open a new community hub and café at 56 Hamilton Road, Cambuslang.