It had been 15 long months since our last event but the day dawned at last. Our first programme since the pandemic struck saw 28 delegates gather in Dunblane Hydro in late June for three intense, happy days. The Spring 2021 Young Scotland Programme was, of course, suitably masked and distanced, but that did not prevent the delegate group from creating a warm, mutually supportive atmosphere. On the final evening, Dylan Howel, Social Security Scotland, was awarded the Scotland Young Thinker of the Year title (shared with the winner at the Autumn YSP in September), Catriona McDonald, Scottish Water, was runner-up, Meghan McGrory, Social Security Scotland, was highly commended, and Sophie Holcroft, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland was commended. Click here for photos.

Next, we will be heading to Lancaster for the 2021 Young Local Authority of the Year (24 to 26 August, click here for brochure and booking form). Looking further ahead, our plans are: Autumn Young Scotland Programme, Dunblane (28 September to 1 October, click here for brochure and booking form), Autumn Young England and Wales Programme, Lancaster (26 to 29 October, click here for brochure and booking form) and the 2021 Young Ireland Programme, Dunblane (23 to 26 November, information to follow).

The time has gone so fast it is hard to believe it, but next year is our 20th anniversary. The dates for events in this special year will be available soon.