Derry’s Declan up for Scottish Charity Award

Declan Harrigan, founder of S.M.I.L.E Counselling, has been recognised in the Scottish Charity Awards run by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO).

Declan moved to Scotland in 2010 and five years ago set up a charity to help provide free counselling to 11-24 year olds.

This year’s shortlist includes 45 individuals and organisations from charities and voluntary groups across the country. While a judging panel will determine the winners under eight distinct categories, members of the public can have their say by voting for their favourite overall entry in the People’s Choice Award – by visiting www.scvo.org.uk/vote and registering their vote before 5pm on Friday, September 4.

Declan, who has been recognised as a finalist in the ‘Leading Light’ category, said: “It is overwhelming to be considered a finalist for such a respectful and prestigious award. I am truly humbled and grateful to everyone for all their support. My dream has always been to support and empower young people through their mental health challenges so that they can realise just how amazing they are. I am only in this honoured position because our young people have been brave enough to speak their truth to me. ” 

Anna Fowlie, Chief Executive of SCVO, said: “Much of the work celebrated this year predates the pandemic. All aspects of our lives have been disrupted in 2020. Scotland’s voluntary sector has never been more needed and will be essential to Scotland’s recovery. At SCVO we know that fantastic work is going on all the time and we are delighted to celebrate these achievements and successes through the Charity Awards.”