Caithness businesswoman Donna Booth wins silver award at Good Health Magazine’s Wellbeing Awards
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A Caithness-based therapist is flying the flag for wellbeing in the north after winning a silver award in Good Health Magazine’s Wellbeing Awards.
Donna Booth, founder of Vitality, claimed runner-up in the wellbeing ambassador category at the virtual awards ceremony, which recognised those working in the industry across Scotland.
One judging criteria of the awards was to showcase how the nominee has been able to adapt to the Covid-19 crisis. When the pandemic hit, the wellbeing coach, yoga and mindfulness teacher and retreat host, moved her business online with help from an £8494 digital enablement grant from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), as well as funding from the Caithness Business Fund.
The funding also went towards the development of an online retreat community as well as delivering online workshops, webinars and wellbeing courses for Dounreay, LGOWIT, MS Society Scotland, Diabetes Scotland and the NHS.
Donna said: “I was surprised and delighted to be nominated for the awards but to reach the finals and then achieve the silver award was a real boost in what has been a difficult year.
"Wellbeing is more important now than ever, with the mental health situation in Caithness reaching crisis point. It has been heartening to see groups like Caithness Cares, No More Lost Souls and Listening Ear offering support.
"I will keep doing what I can to raise awareness and provide support. Running the business online has allowed me to access a much wider client base and has meant clients can access support without having to travel, but I am also really looking forward to getting back to running in-person retreats and classes again.”
Claire Wilson, HIE account manager for Caithness and Sutherland, said: “It is fantastic to see how well Donna was able to adapt her business so that she could continue to provide her services virtually during the Covid-19 pandemic. Now that she has a strong online presence, new doors have been opened for her business and this award recognises her hard work and dedication during a particularly challenging time.
"We are delighted to offer our support and look forward to seeing her business continue to flourish.”
