Congratulations to Better Lives Partnership Dumfries on National Art Competition Success

That the Parliament congratulates Better Lives Partnership Dumfries on winning the 16 and over category in the Marine Conservation Society’s art competition, One Year to DRS (Deposit Return Scheme), held as part of World Oceans Week; recognises the outstanding achievement of the young people involved, aged 16 to 25, who are supported by the charity to develop skills, qualifications and confidence while overcoming barriers associated with autism and other additional support needs; commends their creativity, research and collaboration in producing a winning poster highlighting the deposit return scheme and the need to protect marine life from plastic pollution; notes that the artwork incorporated a range of artistic techniques and recycled materials, reflecting both inclusion and sustainability; further notes that the winning entry has been selected for exhibition at Westminster as part of the Deposit Return Scheme event on 2 November 2027, providing national recognition for the young people’s work; acknowledges the positive contribution that Better Lives Partnership makes to communities across Dumfries and Galloway by supporting young people towards employment, independent living, further education and volunteering, and wishes all those involved continued success in their efforts to promote environmental awareness, inclusion and community participation while representing Dumfries and Galloway on a national stage.