From revolutionising Deaf healthcare to transforming dementia care with music, the ScottishPower Foundation Awards have celebrated four inspiring charities making waves across the country.
At a ceremony honouring outstanding impact across four categories, the prestigious Charity Champion Award was presented to Robin Ash, a passionate advocate and educator at Deaf-led charity SignHealth, for his groundbreaking work improving healthcare access for the Deaf community.
Drawing on lived experience, Robin travels across England and Wales delivering British Sign Language (BSL) workshops that empower Deaf people to understand their rights under the Accessible Information Standard (AIS) and advocate for themselves in medical settings. His sessions also support healthcare professionals in meeting AIS requirements - a vital step, given that only 35% currently receive regular training.
SignHealth’s research reveals that 81% of Deaf patients have attended appointments where their communication needs weren’t met. Thanks to Robin’s workshops, many professionals now routinely ask about communication needs and ensure BSL interpreters are booked in advance.
Known for his warmth, patience and tireless commitment, Robin often works evenings and weekends to reach more communities. His workshops are fully booked for the next year - a testament to their impact. Judges praised Robin for building change from the ground up and helping create a more inclusive NHS.
Robin, an Engagement Manager at SignHealth said, “I’m honoured to have my work recognised by the ScottishPower Foundation. Campaigning for fair and equal healthcare access for Deaf people has been my lifelong passion. This prize money will help our fantastic team here at SignHealth to reach even more people within the Deaf community, delivering life-saving workshops across the country.”
The Community Engagement Award went to Playlist for Life, which is transforming dementia care through the power of personally meaningful music. In 2024, its campaigns - including National Playlist Day, backed by Sir Alex Ferguson - reached over 5 million people, encouraging them to reflect on the music that shaped their lives.
Supporting over 60,000 families through 2,500 Help Point partners, Playlist for Life has seen remarkable outcomes, including an 80% reduction in medication for some patients in Fife. Its gold-standard engagement brings together communities, professionals and public figures to show that music is both joyful and life-saving.
Michael Timmons, Executive Director at Playlist for Life, said, “It’s fantastic to be to be recognised by the ScottishPower Foundation for our work supporting communities across Scotland and the UK with free resources, advice and support. This award is shared with everyone living with dementia, their families, carers and all who’ve helped Playlist for Life bring the soundtrack back into people’s lives. The additional funding will help us reach even more people nationwide. Our heartfelt thanks to the ScottishPower Foundation for championing the power of playlists.”
The Education Award was presented to The Oswin Project, which is transforming lives through education, training and employment for prisoners and ex-offenders. From catering and horticulture to heritage skills and bicycle engineering, its tailored programmes help individuals rebuild confidence, reconnect with families and reintegrate into society.
Fiona Sample MBE, Founder and CEO at The Oswin Project, said, “This award from the ScottishPower Foundation will provide us with additional funding to help us continue reducing reoffending through our transformational mentoring and education, giving hope to those once considered hopeless.
“By tailoring our support to each individual, we empower them to rebuild self-esteem, provide for their families and contribute positively to society. Together we can create safer communities, fewer victims of crime and a future where no one is defined solely by their past.”
Finally, the Innovation Award went to the Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust for its floating classroom, which brings marine science to life for children in remote coastal communities. Aboard the ‘Silurian’, the organisations’ research vessel, young learners hoist sails, spot wildlife, listen to porpoise clicks and connect their experiences to real-world science and sustainability.
Sadie Gorvett, Education and Sightings Officer, said, “This recognition is so important to us as it celebrates our floating classroom and the communities that make it possible by sparking passion and interest in the local environment and encouraging conversations about the actions that we can all take to help protect it.
“With no comparable project in the country it has become a unique and highly sought after experience. With this additional support from the ScottishPower Foundation we’ll inspire young ocean ambassadors and expand education and research to protect Scotland’s west coast marine wildlife together.”
Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said, “At the ScottishPower Foundation, we believe in the power of people to change lives - and this year’s Award winners have done just that. Their passion, resilience and creativity are nothing short of inspiring.
“Stories like Robin’s are the reason we do this. Every winner is a true champion, tackling vital challenges. We’re incredibly proud to support these changemakers who are lighting up communities, breaking down barriers and building a brighter future for all. It’s a privilege to stand beside them and help their impact grow.”
Further details on the winners and runners-up are available on the ScottishPower Foundation website: scottishpowerfoundation.com.