Buckie charity Footprints have ‘spring in their step’ as they celebrate top royal honour
A Moray charity dedicated to providing social activities for adults with a range of disabilities has been presented with the highest honour for volunteering in the land.
There was a surprise of the most pleasant kind last November for Footprints, who are based in Portessie Public Hall, when they heard that they had been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) - the voluntary sector equivalent of an MBE.
The volunteer-run group, which holds a weekly social club, was formed 12 years ago by local couple Paul and Barbara Zealand, whose two sons have disabilities. A dozen years ago, there was a distinct lack of options when it came to activities for the lads during the day.
However, Footprints now offer a wide range of activities from baking and karaoke to crafts and boccia - all of which provide opportunities to develop skills. The group gives its members purpose and a focus in their week which is particularly good for their mental health, as well as providing a social environment where they can make and forge solid positive friendships.
Starting with just four people, the group now cater for up to 18. Running Footprints is a 50-week-a-year commitment from the volunteers.
Thursday, March 20 saw the Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire Andrew Simpson, accompanied by Deputy Lieutenants Dr John Harrington and Tricia Lawson, make their way to Portessie Public Hall to present Footprints with their KAVS certificate and a special commemorative crystal.
Paying tribute to the team, Mr Simpson said: “Congratulations to everyone involved with Footprints on achieving this award.
“For many years the volunteers have been providing a much-needed and valuable opportunity for people who face a number of challenges to meet together and develop skills.
“The warm and friendly environment is a testimony to all who attend and to the volunteers. The KAVS is very well-deserved recognition for the successful achievements of the group.”
Mrs Zealand spoke of the group’s pride in their award.
She continued: “Receiving the award last November was a shock and an honour but I don’t think it felt real somehow.
“The presentation brought it home to us just what we have all achieved and that we are making a difference to all our members. We all enjoy what we do at Footprints and both members and volunteers had a great day…getting dressed up and sharing such a unique experience.
“It has given us a boost and made us all think of new things to try and do this year to maintain the standard and excitement that we have for the club. Personally I feel a bit of a fraud getting such accolades for doing something so simple that I love doing.
“The whole experience has brought a new spring to everyone’s step and a new zest for what we do.”
Two volunteers from the group will attend a garden party at Holyrood House, along with other recipients of this year’s award.
Only 281 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups received this prestigious award in 2024. Recipients were announced on November 14, the King’s Birthday. The King’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee.
Following his accession, His Majesty the King announced his desire to continue the award.
