CVS Falkirk & District is delighted to celebrate our new Community Development Officer, Adam Gillies, who was honoured at the Scottish Parliament last weekend after being nominated as a ‘Local Hero’ for his outstanding contribution as a volunteer within the Grangemouth community.

Adam was invited to Holyrood on Saturday 27 June as part of the official opening ceremony of the new session of the Scottish Parliament. During the event, King Charles III and Queen Camilla attended a special reception celebrating ‘Local Heroes’ – individuals nominated by their MSPs in recognition of their exceptional commitment to communities across Scotland. Speaking before the event, Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, Kenneth Gibson MSP said: “I am always humbled by the selflessness of people across the country who go to extraordinary lengths to give back to their communities. I look forward to celebrating our local heroes and hearing more about their achievements.”

Adam was nominated for his dedicated voluntary work with Grangemouth incl. Skinflats Community Council and Friends of Inchyra Park, where he has played a leading role in bringing people together to improve local green spaces, strengthen connections and inspire pride in the community. Speaking before the event, he highlighted: “I was genuinely surprised to have been nominated. The work I am involved in through Friends of Inchyra Park and Grangemouth incl. Skinflats Community Council is a real team effort, so the nomination feels very much like a reflection of the effort we all make to improve our local community. I am genuinely honoured and grateful for our work to be recognised.”

Discussing the significance of being recognised nationally, Adam stressed the value of shining a light on the often unseen work carried out by volunteers across Scotland: “It’s extremely important. Volunteers often give their time quietly behind the scenes, and recognition like this helps highlight the impact they have on communities across the country. It also encourages more people to get involved and shows that local action really does matter.”

Through Friends of Inchyra Park, Adam has helped establish a thriving community group dedicated to improving and protecting the park, organising volunteering opportunities, supporting local events and creating welcoming spaces where residents can enjoy nature and connect with one another. Reflecting on his own volunteering journey, he said: “I started volunteering as I wanted to help make a positive difference locally. Parks and green spaces are really important for people’s wellbeing, and Inchyra Park has so much potential. Seeing what can be achieved when local people come together was a big motivation – and understanding the community had been waiting so long for any positive development I felt we as a community needed to empower ourselves.”

Looking ahead, Adam remains focused on continuing to improve Inchyra Park, “there are always more ideas and opportunities to make the park a welcoming, enjoyable place for everyone”, and building stronger links within the community, including leading work on the Kerse Road Gap project alongside colleague Marnie Kavanagh. This project aims to transform the Grangemouth town centre through a mix of environmental improvements and community-led design: “I really believe the Kerse Road Gap project is something our community is excited about and will keep continuing to grow pride in their own community.”

Adam recently joined CVS Falkirk & District as Community Development Officer for the Upper Braes, bringing a wealth of experience in grassroots community action and partnership working. Chief Executive Officer, Victoria McRae, shared her own congratulations: “Adam’s recognition as a Local Hero is thoroughly deserved and reflects the passion, commitment and leadership he has consistently demonstrated in supporting his community. We are absolutely delighted that Adam has joined the CVS Falkirk & District team, and we know his experience, enthusiasm and community-first approach will have a hugely positive impact across the Falkirk District. Congratulations Adam on this well-earned recognition.”

We’re delighted to have Adam on our team and incredibly proud to see his dedication recognised on the national stage. Congratulations Adam!