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Chamber and committees

Jim McLaren Receives BEM Award in The King's Birthday Honours List 2025

  • Submitted by: Dr Pam Gosal MBE, West Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party.
  • Date lodged: Tuesday, 01 July 2025
  • Motion reference: S6M-18181

That the Parliament congratulates Jim McLaren, founder of Golden Friendships in Clydebank, on being awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) as part of The King’s Birthday Honours 2025 for his outstanding work with people with disabilities and older adults in Clydebank and Glasgow; notes that Golden Friendships, which started in 2017, has grown from a small club into an important community hub under Jim's leadership; further notes Golden Friendships' significant role in reducing loneliness and promoting inclusivity through various initiatives, including over 20 weekly sessions and activity clubs; recognises the charity's innovative Red Ramp events, which provide wheelchair-accessible entertainment; further recognises its award from Age Scotland as the national member group of the year; appreciates Jim's commitment and hands-on style, and wishes Golden Friendships continued success in its future efforts.


Supported by: Jeremy Balfour, Colin Beattie, Miles Briggs, Tim Eagle, Annabelle Ewing, Russell Findlay, Meghan Gallacher, Dr Sandesh Gulhane, Jamie Halcro Johnston, Craig Hoy, Liam Kerr, Bill Kidd, Douglas Lumsden, Fulton MacGregor, Roz McCall, Douglas Ross, Paul Sweeney, Annie Wells, Tess White, Brian Whittle