NOMINATIONS are now open for the 2025 Helping It Happen Awards, following a launch at Dalswinton Estate near Dumfries.
Now in their ninth year, the prestigious national awards—organised by Scottish Land and Estates and sponsored by NatureScot—celebrate the outstanding efforts of estates, farms, businesses, individuals, charities and community projects that make rural Scotland thrive.
And last year’s Rural Business Award winner, Claxton’s Whisky and Dalswinton Estate, were delighted to hosted the official launch event.
Peter Landale, owner of Dalswinton Estate, said: “Dalswinton has always been a place of innovation and stewardship, and it’s a privilege to see that spirit continued through partnerships like ours with Claxton’s Whisky.
“The Helping It Happen Awards reflect the same ethos—celebrating people who care deeply about the future of rural Scotland.”
The awards are open to anyone, from local community organisations to independent businesses, third-sector conservation organisations, as well as farms, estates and national organisations. There is no requirement to be a Scottish Land and Estates member to enter.
The categories for 2025 are: conservation; education; enhancing our environment through land management; good news; innovation in farming; combatting climate change; outstanding contribution to rural Scotland; rural business; rural property; rural rising star; tourism and visitor management; and working with communities.
Sarah-Jane Laing, CEO of Scottish Land and Estates, said: “The Helping It Happen Awards aim to spotlight the essential contributions made by land-based organisations, community groups, charities and individuals to rural communities throughout Scotland, and I’m delighted that the nomination process for 2025 is now underway. “From enhancing biodiversity and local economies to innovation in land management and tourism, these awards celebrate the diverse and inspiring work that often goes unrecognised. We encourage everyone to nominate those making a real difference across rural Scotland.”
Go to www.scottishlandandestates.co.uk/helping-it-happen. Entries close later this summer and the winners will be announced in autumn.
