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Dumfries & Galloway Celebrates Residents Leading the Clean & Green Movement

Update Celebrating Local Heroes: The Importance of Community Engagement In Dumfries and Galloway, a remarkable group of residents is leading the charge for cleaner and greener living. At a recent celebration hosted by Wheatley Homes South, ten tenants were recognized for their commendable efforts in environmental stewardship. These individuals have completed training to become Keep Scotland Beautiful (KSB) Assessors, positioning themselves as ambassadors for sustainability in their neighborhoods. Inspiring Participation: How Community Involvement Transforms Lives Among the honored tenants was Stephen Youngson, who resonates with many Dumfries residents. Originally from Orkney, he now makes Annan his home and actively participates in Wheatley’s Stronger Voices program. This initiative allows tenants to have a voice in local decisions, providing valuable feedback to enhance their living environment. Stephen expresses the fulfilling aspects of engaging with the community, emphasizing that it creates a sense of pride and responsibility. “I’d definitely encourage others to get involved,” he shares. The skills learned during such programs may lead to lasting changes that resonate well beyond the immediate area. Wheatley Homes: A Model for Sustainability in Scotland The initiative to train KSB Assessors aligns seamlessly with Wheatley Group’s broader environmental goals. Recognized by Planet Mark for significant reductions in carbon emissions, Wheatley’s ambitious sustainability efforts have enabled the organization to lead by example. Since 2021, Wheatley has reduced carbon outputs by 312 tonnes, engaging in eco-friendly projects that not only revamp neighborhoods but also empower residents to play an active role in communal improvement. A Community-Driven Approach: Supporting Local Transformation As they participate in the KSB program, individuals assess local green spaces and offer constructive suggestions for improvement. This collaborative effort fosters community pride while facilitating vital improvements. Alex Lamb, Managing Director at Wheatley Homes South, expressed pride in empowering residents to be active contributors to their neighborhoods: “These assessors play a huge role in acting as ambassadors for environmental improvement,” he affirmed. Beyond Cleanliness: Building a Sustainable Future Together Wheatley’s Neighbourhood Environmental Teams (NETs) have transformed spaces, creating vibrant and welcoming environments. Many residents are keen to see these initiatives expand. By installing solar panels, electric vehicle charging points, and bike shelters, and engaging in tree planting, Wheatley has made a tangible difference in local communities. This holistic approach to sustainability showcases the interconnectedness of environmental initiatives and community development. Actionable Takeaways for Future Residents For homebuyers and potential tenants in Dumfries and Galloway, the ongoing efforts to enhance community landscapes present an opportunity to be part of a positive movement. Local initiatives like those spearheaded by Wheatley Homes not only elevate property value—making areas more inviting—but also create a sense of shared responsibility among residents. By embracing such community-driven programs, new tenants can contribute to a thriving environment shaped by collective action. Join the Movement: How You Can Make a Difference If you are a Wheatley tenant, take this opportunity to explore how you can become a KSB Assessor. Engaging with local efforts to keep Dumfries and Galloway clean not only benefits the environment but provides personal growth and fulfillment. Remember, every small action counts towards making a larger impact.