The Robert Burns Humanitarian Award is a globally-respected honour bestowed annually on a group or individual who shows selflessness and dedication in a bid to save, enrich or improve the lives of others through the protection and promotion of human rights and work to deliver social reform.
Named in honour of Scotland’s son, Robert Burns, this much sought after humanitarian award applauds the efforts of people who bring hope and inspiration, often in desperate situations, and help change lives for the better.
Award:
The winner receives a specially commissioned award handcrafted in Scotland and the equivalent of 1759 guineas – a sum which signifies the year of the Bard’s birth and the coinage in circulation at the time – equating to £1,800 in today’s currency.
Eligibility:
- They are looking for a person, or a group of people, who follow in Rabbie’s footsteps and devote themselves to others and push the boundaries for social change.
- Applicants should demonstrate clearly – either through a particular achievement or a series of efforts – one of more of the following:
- A courageous deed involving personal self-sacrifice, going beyond the call of duty in the name of humanity.
- A commitment to serving others and making a difference through humanitarian acts of selfless service.
- A generosity of spirit and dedication helping improve the quality of life for people in need through the provision of shelter, food, clothing, education or meaningful employment.
- Direct ‘hands-on’ participation in humanitarian works that directly benefit an individual/groups of individuals/community.
- Outstanding involvement and dedication that makes a significant contribution to volunteer leadership or service which has improved or enriched the lives of others and the welfare of humanity and society as a whole.
- An act of kindness done without expectation of reward that has resulted in recognition by members of a community/organisation.
