Stuart Radose, of Community InfoSource has been recognised for his work in enabling asylum seekers and refugees to tackle loneliness and isolation through organising a walking group.
The 47-year-old is a Wellbeing Coordinator with Community InfoSource and works with marginalised refugee and asylum communities in Glasgow to set up regular and meaningful walks, creating safe and fun initiatives for socialising and building connections.
He said:
"Community InfoSource is a fantastic organisation to be part of, and I feel fortunate to work with many talented and dedicated volunteers many of whom are asylum seekers and volunteers.
This award isn't just for me. It's for all of my colleagues and asylum seeker volunteers who are involved in the planning of Health Walks.
We use walking as a tool to enable asylum seekers and refugeesto improve their physical, mental and social wellbeing while introducing them to new services, community hubs and different parts of the city – and have started to also venture further afield to take in Scotland’s beauty spots.
"During the winter, three employees and four asylum seeker volunteers at Community InfoSource got involved in 'Good Move Walk' - a bespoke online Walk Leader training course which has been vital for us to grow, offer new services and consider new walking routes.
"The main reason my enthusiasm for this initiative has continued for over a year is all down to the positive stories from community members. Seeing how new social connections have flourished, shared experiences have combatted loneliness and improved people's English skills and understanding of Glasgow. For us, it goes above the health and wellbeing benefits.
Asylum seekers and refugees can experience traumatic journeys to Scotland, which can negatively affect their mental health. I'm proud to play a small part in creating a safe network where asylum seekers and refugees can create new connections and experiences.