Civic recognition for Shortlees Amateurs and The Killie Community’s Scott Montgomery
Provost Claire Leitch presented Shortlees Amateurs and Scott Montgomery from The Killie Community with certificates of civic recognition this week at Council HQ.
Scott was recently named Employee of the Year at the Scottish Charity Awards due to his outstanding contribution to improving lives across Ayrshire through his work with The Killie Community.
After the devastating loss of his son, Scott found support through The Killie Community’s health and wellbeing programmes as a participant. Inspired by the difference this made to his own life, he began volunteering before progressing all the way into employment. Today, as full-time Hub Operations and Engagement Lead, he oversees programmes supporting more than 6,000 people each year across East Ayrshire.
Using his own lived experience, Scott has become a trusted source of encouragement for people facing bereavement, poor physical and mental health, loneliness, recovery and social isolation. He leads a wide range of community programmes, from dementia support and walking groups to additional support needs activities, recovery initiatives and community health projects, helping people build confidence, improve their wellbeing and reconnect with their community.
Shortlees Amateurs also have an inspiring story to tell, after winning mostly every tournament they entered over the last year. The team scored 200 goals in 40 games and won the Budget Blinds Premier League, the Ayrshire Cup, and the James Scott Trophy.
Lifting the Scottish Amateur Cup at Hampden in May however, was the real pinnacle of the team’s achievements.
Provost Leitch said: “Scott’s national award celebrates far more than his professional success – it reflects the care, strength and kindness he shows to everyone who comes through the doors of The Killie Community. His story demonstrates the vital role of the third sector, the unique ability of football to bring people together, and the real difference that community-based support can make.
“I was also delighted to be able to recognise and congratulate Shortlees Amateurs on their incredible achievements. The whole team clearly has a real winning mentality, and thanks to the support of their fans and the hard work of those involved with the club, they have become the best amateur team in Scotland. They are fantastic role models for our young people, and I wish them every success for the future.”
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