Scullion Law was honoured by Home-Start UK at the family support organisation’s nationwide awards
A Hamilton law firm has been named corporate volunteer of the year by family support organisation Home-Start UK for its funding and staff support to the network’s Glasgow and North Lanarkshire branch.
Scullion Law won the category at Home-Start’s annual volunteer awards in London, honouring “volunteers whose remarkable efforts have transformed family lives”.
The Cadzow Street company has supported the network’s Glasgow North and North Lanarkshire branch for the past four years, donating funds and expert advice, taking part in special events in aid of the group’s work and rolling up their sleeves to carry out practical work on a garden transformation.
Representatives of the Glasgow and Lanarkshire branch nominated their partners at Scullion for the organisation’s awards in recognition of their committed support dating back to 2021.
The company’s family law team has donated £1 from every completed fee note, raising more than £3200 through its community initiative; and provide pro bono legal advice on topics including will writing and powers of attorney, allowing people to ask questions at supportive and informative sessions and helping Home-Start’s family support coordinators and volunteers navigate complex issues.
Scullion staff have also volunteered to take part in the Kiltwalk to raise funds, and worked to upgrade the garden space at Home-Start’s base, transforming it into “a welcoming environment for families”.
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Head of family law Judith Higson said staff are “honoured” by their award win and said: “We’re grateful to be able to contribute to the important work Home-Start do with vulnerable families in Glasgow and North Lanarkshire.
“It lifts our spirits hearing about how the funds we’ve donated have been used to help families in difficulties and the difference this can make; and volunteering not only positively impacts the wellbeing of our staff but also enables the charity to support many more families in need. We look forward to continuing our support.”
She collected the award at the London ceremony from TV presenter Kirstie Allsopp, a Home-Start ambassador – who said: “It’s been an absolute joy to celebrate the incredible work of Home-Start’s volunteers – they are the lifeblood of this wonderful charity, bringing warmth, empathy, and unwavering support to families when they need it most and embody everything Home-Start stands for: kindness, commitment and a genuine sense of community.”
Scullion’s winning award citation said the Hamilton firm has “provided financial support and professional expertise, strengthening Home-Start Glasgow North & North Lanarkshire’s ability to deliver essential services”; with their charity partners saying: “From the outset, Judith and her team have always been supportive and thoughtful about the work of the charity, and their friendly approach has enabled them to connect well with everyone they have come into contact with.”
Local Home-Start manager Nikki O’Hara said in a video accompanying the nomination: “Scullion have been creative in their approach – they haven’t just supported us in one way, [but] have supported us through fundraising, volunteering, pro bono support, and all these approaches coming together have been really helpful
“The funds that they give us really can go a long long way and ultimately enable children and families to flourish.”
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Judith added: “It makes a huge difference when you’re able to step in and provide emotional and practical support to people whose lives can be falling apart – at that point you lift them up, you care for them and they don’t feel alone.”
Home-Start Glasgow North and North Lanarkshire trustee board chair Susan H Walsh OBE said: “We were delighted to nominate Scullion Law for the corporate volunteer award and even more delighted when they won; they deserve recognition for making a difference to Scotland’s children.
“They have worked with us to support families and children for four years, making donations, giving their time and offering training session on legal issues for parents, volunteers and staff. They are a friendly and welcoming team and are genuine in their desire to help others.”
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