Volunteer of the Year award 2024

A woman from Aberdeen who has led an older people’s network for 15 years has been named as Age Scotland’s Volunteer of the Year.

Marjory D’Arcy, who is chairwoman of the Grampian 50+ Network, has been described as an inspiration for the dedication, support and care she gives to older people across the north east of Scotland.

Marjory began working with older people in the 1980s, setting up activity groups to bring people together. She has been involved with the Grampian 50+ Network since its inception in 1998 and became chairwoman in 2009.

The network is now made up of 42 walking groups with around 1,000 members across the region, through organised walks and social get-togethers.  There are special events throughout the year, including a Spring Fling and Summer Ramblers’ Rendezvous. A particular highlight, which was arranged by Marjory, was a walk through the King’s Balmoral estate.

One member of the network said: “The impact of Marjory’s work with older people has been enormous. Her efforts have markedly enhanced the wellbeing of hundreds of older people – many of whom could not otherwise have accessed such a range of opportunities through lack of transport or restricted income.”

Many older people who attend network events speak about the importance of being in the fresh air, accessible exercise and making new social connections. Marjory’s work at the network has helped people transition into retirement, adjust to bereavement, learn to live on their own or recover from physical or mental ill health.

Now that Marjory is standing down after 15 years at the network, her colleagues are delighted to celebrate her enthusiasm, empathy and commitment to improving the lives of older people in Grampian.

Marjory D'Arcy said: 

“I was very surprised and delighted to hear that I was to be awarded Volunteer of the Year award from Age Scotland in recognition of my 26 years of volunteering. The network was set up by me in 1998 to take forward work that had been previously supported by community education staff. I don’t think it was part of my retirement plan to become so heavily involved but it has been a very worthwhile and enjoyable journey meeting lots of lovely, happy, healthy, active and enthusiastic older people and having lots of laughs and fun.

“The organisation, a registered Scottish Charity, is I believe, unique in Scotland, with 40 Older People’s Walking Groups from across Grampian. When we ask members about their groups, they not only highlight walks but other aspects of being in a group including the chatting, the sharing of ideas and interests, the company and fun. Many members live alone and being a member of a group helps with social isolation and loneliness.

“This award will mean a lot to the Network. Our strapline is ‘Promoting Health & Happiness in Later Life’ and that is what we try to do.”

Katherine Crawford, chief executive of Age Scotland, said:

“It is an honour to present Marjory D’Arcy with Age Scotland’s Volunteer of the Year award. Marjory has dedicated many years of her life to supporting and improving the lives of older people across the north east of Scotland through the Grampian 50+ Network.

“She has brought people together at challenging points in their life and skilfully created a community which some of the members say is a lifeline to them. There is no doubt that she will be hugely missed when she stands down and takes a well-earned break.

“Congratulations to Marjory and thank you for everything you have done to tackle loneliness, improve health and wellbeing and forge vital social connections among older people.”