2 days ago
Bathgate mum awarded MBE in King's Birthday Honours for service to the community
Victoria Dunnett is the former Chair of the Boghall Drop-In Centre
A mum-of-four from Bathgate is 'incredibly humbled' after it was revealed she's being awarded an MBE in King Charles's Birthday Honours list in recognition of her service to the people of West Lothian.
Victoria Dunnett is the former Chair of the Boghall Drop-In Centre, a grassroots charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families across the local authority area.
The Boghall Drop-In Centre has become a cornerstone of the local community, particularly during the festive period. Its Christmas programme includes free meals, Santa's Grotto experiences, pensioners' parties, and other inclusive events aimed at bringing joy and support to those who need it most.
The charity's services are designed to be free wherever possible, ensuring that no one is left behind.
During the Covid pandemic, Victoria, along with Kelly Drummond, Heather McCormack, and Graham Cavan, worked tirelessly to prevent hardship in the local community — often putting in 16-hour days, seven days a week for six months to deliver essential support.
Victoria's leadership, compassion, and relentless commitment have been central to the success of the centre. The MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) award from the King is a testament to the life-changing impact she has made in her community.
Alongside her voluntary work, 46-year-old Victoria is employed locally as a Personal Assistant with Persimmon Homes East Scotland, where she plays a key role in the smooth running of construction sites across the Lothians and Forth Valley.
Persimmon supports local communities through its Community Champions programme, donating £750,000 each year, and its Building Futures scheme with donations of over £1 million.
Reacting to news of the award, Victoria said: 'I'm incredibly humbled to receive this recognition. It reflects the commitment of an amazing small team that continues to provide vital support through the Boghall Drop-In Centre.
'I'm also deeply grateful to Persimmon Homes East Scotland, whose generous support and ongoing charitable donations — contributed by employees and backed wholeheartedly by senior management — have enabled us to assist families for up to six months at a time.
'I'm proud to be part of such a compassionate organisation, and proud to stand alongside the incredible and resilient people of Boghall and West Lothian.'
