The Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Action for Nature project in Ayrshire could be in line for a funding boost of up to £10,000 this winter after being shortlisted for the ScottishPower Foundation Awards 2023.

The project has been shortlisted in the Community Engagement category for bringing volunteers together on a weekly basis for activities such as tree planting, wildlife surveying and improving paths to enable greater access to nature.

Three voluntary groups take place throughout the week, including conservation maintenance, easy weeding and assisting local community groups.

Additional monthly walks throughout the summer encourage more people to learn about the wide range of species from wildflowers to moths that can be found across Ayrshire.

Harry Richards, Ayrshire community engagement officer with the Scottish Wildlife Trust, said: “The volunteers involved in the project are delighted to have been shortlisted by the ScottishPower Foundation for the Community Engagement Award.

"They enjoy being outdoors helping to manage wildlife reserves, greenspaces and community spaces such as allotments or school gardens.

"Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, get to know more about wildlife and hear about other community activities.”

There are four ScottishPower Foundation Award categories: Charity Champion, Community Engagement, Education and Innovation.

The shortlisted charities were all funded by the ScottishPower Foundation in 2023 and category winners will receive a further £10,000 to support their vital work, with runners-up taking home £5,000.

More than £12 million has been awarded to charities by the ScottishPower Foundation since it was established in 2013.

Find out more about Action for Nature in Ayrshire on their webpage here and Facebook page here.


The winners will be announced on the 30th of October.