Volunteer (83) at Merkinch Community Centre in Inverness receives Age Scotland award for her work to improve lives of older people
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
An 83-year-old volunteer who puts in a 40-hour week to improve the lives of older people in Inverness has been recognised with a national award.
Anne McCreadie, chairperson of the Merkinch Community Centre, has won Age Scotland’s Jess Barrow Award for Campaigning and Influencing.
She was among six groups and individuals recognised by the charity for their innovative and compassionate work to improve the lives of older people.
She began her volunteering career as a young single mum to four children in 1976 when plans for the community centre were being drawn up.
Mrs McCreadie took over as chairperson in the 1990s and has embraced change and overseen the development of the centre into a welcoming place for older people, people with disabilities, and younger people attending after school groups.
Regulars at the centre describe it as somewhere with strong community spirit which helps them feel less lonely and isolated.
Inclusivity and diversity showcased at centre
During her time in charge, the centre has been renovated and modernised and now boasts 62,000 visits a year – a testament to her dedicated work.
Mrs McCreadie, who was nominated for the award by Elsie Normington, the centre’s development officer, said it had come as a complete surprise.
“I don’t see what I have done for the centre or people,” she said.
“It is what it has done for me. I have got so much out of it.”
Although she has some mobility problems, she has no intention of stopping her voluntary work.
“I cannot charge around like I used to but it is not stopping me doing what I do in the centre,” she said.
Mrs Normington said: “I am absolutely delighted that Anne has been chosen for this prestigious award.
“It is very well deserved and I am delighted that she has been appropriately recognised in this way for her very long term volunteering.”
The award, sponsored by PSR Scotland, was presented by TV presenter Kaye Adams and Brian Sloan, chief executive of Age Scotland, at a ceremony at the Radisson Blue Hotel in Glasgow.
“Anne’s commitment, drive and energy have made the Highlands a better place for older people,” Mr Sloan said.
“She has created a warm and welcoming place for older people to get together, make friends and share activities.
“The tireless work that Anne does every week goes a long way to reducing isolation and loneliness among older people in Inverness.
“It was clear from Anne’s nomination that she has touched the lives of so many older people and I’m delighted to present her with the Jess Barrow Award for Campaigning and Influencing in recognition of her inspirational work.”
He added it was humbling to hear of the great impact the award winners had on the lives of older people in communities across Scotland.
Three years ago, Mrs McCreadie was presented with the City of Inverness Medal by the then Provost Helen Carmichael in recognition of her work in the city’s Merkinch area.
