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Motion · S6M-20123 · 11 Dec 2025

Congratulating Robert Smith of GRACE on BEM Award

Lodged by Rona Mackay Standard Motion 24 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament congratulates Robert Smith, who is the founder and CEO of Group Recovery Aftercare Community Enterprise (GRACE) in Kirkintilloch, on being awarded a BEM in The King’s Birthday Honours 2025 for services to charity and the community in East Dunbartonshire; notes that Robert was formally presented with the medal on 20 November by Jill Young MBE, the Lord-Lieutenant of East Dunbartonshire; considers that this honour recognises Robert’s vision and his over 13 years of dedication in building GRACE into a cornerstone of support for individuals facing life traumas, mental health challenges, isolation and addiction; notes that the charity provides a safe, peer-led environment offering diverse activities, including yoga, digital learning and gardening, to help members rebuild confidence; commends Robert’s specific efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic to establish community support networks and his work establishing the Sharing Time group and Help Yourself hub to assist with the cost of living crisis; believes that Robert serves as an inspiration by turning his lived experience into a positive, long-lasting resource that transforms lives, and wishes Robert, the board, staff and volunteers at GRACE continued success in their vital work.

Supporters (24)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.