Stirlingshire Community Link Worker recognised as finalist in national awards
Local Community Link Worker Tony Channing has been named a finalist in the Outstanding Scottish Community Link Worker of the Year category at the Scottish Community Link Worker Network Conference and Awards 2026.
The CLW programme is hosted jointly by CTSI and SVE on behalf of Clackmannanshire and Stirling Health and Social Care Partnership. Tony, Lead Community Link Worker for the Stirling area, has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to Community Link Worker services across Stirlingshire, combining frontline support with leadership to strengthen services, build partnerships and improve outcomes for local people and communities.
Community Link Workers (CLWs) are based within GP practices and provide person-centred support to people experiencing a wide range of challenges that can affect their health and wellbeing. This can include mild to moderate mental health difficulties, social isolation, financial worries and difficulties accessing appropriate community support.
Across Clackmannanshire and Stirling, the Community Link Worker team has developed strong connections with local groups and organisations, helping people access the support, services and opportunities that are right for them
Tony said:
“I'm thrilled to be shortlisted for the Outstanding Community Link Worker of the Year award. I'd like to thank the Stirling & Clacks Community Link Worker Team, Stirling Voluntary Enterprise and Orchard House and Viewfield Medical Practices for their support and encouragement. It is a privilege to be able to connect people with the support, services and opportunities that can make a real difference to their health and wellbeing.”
The nomination follows the success of the wider Clackmannanshire and Stirling Community Link Worker team, which previously won the Community Link Worker Team of the Year award at the Voluntary Health Scotland (VHS) CLW annual conference last year.
The team was recognised for its collaborative approach across the two local authority areas and its extensive connections with community groups and organisations providing specialist support.
Dr Kainde Manji, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of SVE, said:
“We are incredibly proud to see Tony’s dedication and commitment recognised through this national nomination. Community Link Workers make a real difference to people’s lives by providing time, support and connections to services that can improve health and wellbeing.
“Tony embodies the compassion, partnership working and community focus that are at the heart of the Community Link Worker role. We wish him every success at the awards.”
The recognition highlights the vital contribution Community Link Workers make within primary care and local communities, supporting people to address the wider issues that can affect their health and wellbeing, while helping to connect them with the wealth of support available in their local area.
Everyone at SVE and across the wider Community Link Worker team is incredibly proud of Tony and his achievement and wishes him the very best at the Scottish Community Link Worker Network Conference and Awards 2026.
