Caithness KLICS and Wick Development Trust praised in voluntary sector awards
A Caithness charity that supports young carers and a Wick organisation that has developed the town’s campsite were among the winners at a prestigious awards ceremony.
The founder of Caithness KLICS – Kids Living In Caring Situations – was recognised at the Highland Third Sector Interface awards for her dedication to the charity and young people in the county.
Wendy Thain founded Caithness KLICS in 2013 to support young carers aged 5 to 18, who look after family members with disabilities, addictions, or mental health issues. Today, KLICS supports over 100 young carers, offering a safe space for them to unwind and connect with peers.
She received the Outstanding Achievement award, with judges praising her tireless work, managing a team of 15 and securing funding to keep KLICS running. “Her passion for the well-being of these children extends beyond the service, as she continues to help former carers when needed. Wendy’s commitment has made KLICS a lifeline for young carers in Caithness, offering not only respite but also friendship, support, and self-esteem building,” they added.
Caithness KLICS was also given the award for Reducing Vulnerability Through Third Sector Activity at the event last week, which shines a spotlight on the contributions and transformative work achieved by individuals, organisations, and initiatives in Highland communities within the voluntary sector.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “We were elated to find out that Caithness KLICS had won the award for reducing vulnerability in the community in the HTSI awards 2024. Caithness KLICS supports over 100 young carers across Caithness and is forever a growing service where we offer support to children aged 5-18 who have been recognised as having a caring role.
“KLICS has worked hard in the community to be recognised as a reliable and consistent service and to be finally recognised for the hard work and dedication of all the staff is amazing.”
Wendy added: “My heart and soul has gone into this project for the last 12 years so I am very excited and honoured to receive this award. I don’t do it for the recognition – for me it’s all about the kids, but I am delighted that HTSI has recognised all my passion and hard work that has gone into KLICS over the years.“
Meanwhile, Wick Development Trust, which aims to help with urban generation and economic growth in the town, was made the Social Enterprise of the Year at the awards.
The trust took over Wick Campsite in 2022, aiming to transform it into a five-star facility. Phase 1 upgrades, completed in winter 2022/23, included a new road layout, increased electric hook-up points, and new play, barbecue and picnic areas.
Phase 2 began in January this year, adding a £450,000 state-of-the-art facilities block with modern amenities and a large solar array.
The next phase, due to start next month, will see a new reception building with accessible facilities built at the site. Profits from the campsite will be used to support other projects in the town.
Sarah Lamb, project manager for Wick Development Trust, said: “We are thrilled to be awarded Social Enterprise of the Year in recognition of the transformational works at Wick River Campsite over the past two-and-a-half years under the management of the trust.
“We’ve seen visitor numbers increase year-on-year during this time, and the feedback on the improvements that have taken place has been overwhelmingly positive. Our new toilet and facilities building in particular now places us among the best in the Highlands, if not beyond.
“We hope that the success of the campsite will be felt throughout the town, not only as a not-for-profit enterprise that is re-investing back into the community but as a key asset to the local tourist economy whereby increased visitor numbers will be a welcome boost to local business, and will perhaps even inspire new business start-ups as we work to encourage visitors to stay longer and discover everything our town has to offer.
“This award is a testament to the hard work and commitment of everyone involved, and we extend our sincere thanks to all who contributed to this achievement.”
Another Caithnessian, Pharnell Geddes, received a Saltire Summit Award at the ceremony. Pharnell has volunteered more than 1000 hours with the 1st Thurso Boys Brigade and at Caithness Voluntary Group.
