Dumfries and Galloway Council is thrilled to announce that its Youth Work Team won the “Large Team of the Year” award at the LGC (Local Government Chronicle) Awards 2025, held in London on 11th June.
This national recognition celebrates the team’s exceptional contributions to local communities through weekly youth engagement, the delivery of Scotland’s largest free youth music event—Youth Beatz Festival—and their commitment to community-based youth work.
The LGC Awards honour excellence in local government across the UK, spotlighting the dedication and innovation of teams and individuals who make a real difference in their communities. The “Large Team of the Year” category recognises high-performing teams that demonstrate outstanding collaboration, leadership, and measurable impact on local people.
The award acknowledges the Youth Work Team’s continued success in delivering the UK’s largest free youth music event – the Youth Beatz Festival – which attracts over 20,000 attendees each day. The event is uniquely organised by the Council’s Youth Workers in partnership with young and adult volunteers, rather than professional event staff. Central to the festival’s success is The Toon Experience—an immersive educational drama that addresses real-life issues affecting young people.
Young people are actively involved in shaping the festival, working alongside Youth Work staff to co-design key elements such as the Fringe Festival, Second Stage, and Youth Work Tent, ensuring the event remains relevant, inclusive, and empowering.
The judges of the award said that they were hugely impressed by Dumfries and Galloway Council’s entry for large team of the year. “By turning a popular event into a service across education, they have inspired young people and boosted their confidence.” What most impressed the judges was the real, lived experience in their team, and the difference it made across the region and beyond.
Councillor Maureen Johnstone, Chair of the Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, said: “I am absolutely delighted for our Youth Work team to receive this national Award, and it is a fitting testament to their passion, professionalism and dedication to creating safe, inclusive and inspiring experiences for young people across our region. I am very proud of the team, and it is fantastic we have been able to represent Dumfries and Galloway on a national level and win this prestigious award.”
Councillor Lynne Davis, Vice Chair of the Committee, added: “This is a huge achievement for our Youth Work team, and I am very proud of them and thank them for their efforts. The Youth Work team work hard, and most importantly they work alongside young people the length and breadth of Dumfries and Galloway to make a real lasting impact. This national award highlights the excellent work that is being delivered here in our region, and a huge well done to everyone.”
Chelsay McDill, who is a young volunteer in The Toon and presented to the judges as part of the judging panel process said: “Being a part of Youth Work through The Toon experience has helped me to build my confidence and supported me to learn new skills. Youth Work is important to young people because it gives them a fun and exciting space to be themselves, have fun with their friends, as well as opportunities to learn and grow. I am thrilled we were able to win this award and can’t wait for Youth Beatz 2025!”
Dumfries and Galloway Council extends its congratulations to all nominees and celebrates the
