Join us as we shine a spotlight on the extraordinary achievements and unwavering dedication of our Blue Light Services, celebrating the remarkable individuals who keep our communities safe and strong.
These prestigious awards provide a platform to acknowledge the commitment, bravery, and dedication of those working in the emergency services. The award categories are free to enter and are open to any individual or station within the emergency services. Nominations can be made by the public,
Entries will be evaluated by an independent panel of judges, carefully selected for their expertise and experience in the emergency services sector, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
The winners will be announced at a glamorous gala at the Double Tree by Hilton Glasgow, Thursday 30th October 2025.
Regional winners will then have the opportunity to be recognised on a national stage at the Grand Final of the Blue Light Awards, held in London 2026
These professionals embody selflessness, courage, and service, often working behind the scenes with little recognition for their dedication and sacrifices.
These prestigious awards provide a platform to acknowledge the commitment, bravery, and dedication of those working in the emergency services. The award categories are free to enter and are open to any individual or station within the emergency services. Nominations can be made by the public,
Entries will be evaluated by an independent panel of judges, carefully selected for their expertise and experience in the emergency services sector, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
The winners will be announced at a glamorous gala at the Double Tree by Hilton Glasgow, Thursday 30th October 2025.
Regional winners will then have the opportunity to be recognised on a national stage at the Grand Final of the Blue Light Awards, held in London 2026
The Blue Light Awards were founded by Connect Through Service, an organisation dedicated to building success by connecting proven talent with businesses. Through a trusted network, Connect Through Service supports service leavers by creating opportunities for employment and growth across various sectors.
Alongside the NI Veteran Awards. the Blue Light Awards celebrate the selfless commitment, dedication, and achievements of those who serve. In partnership with businesses, these awards honour individuals and teams who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to public safety and emergency response.
Members of Connect Through Service gain access to a wide range of benefits, including exclusive events, a financial well-being hub, and additional resources designed to support and enhance their lives.
Join our trusted network dedicated to connecting service leavers with business and opportunities for employment and growth in various sectors. Through the NI Veteran Awards and Emergency Services Awards we celebrate with our business partners the self-less commitment, drive and achievements of our service leavers. Members benefit from many unrivalled benefits which will give access to our events, financial wellbeing hub and much more to enhance their lives.
Regional Commander Community Rescue Service
Sean McCarry OBE is the founder and Regional Commander of the Community Rescue Service (CRS), the primary lowland search and rescue organization in Northern Ireland. Established in 2007, the CRS operates with a team of approximately 280 search and rescue volunteers and 60 support team members, utilizing 28 emergency response vehicles and 16 rescue boats to provide lifesaving services across the region.
With over four decades of experience in search and rescue operations, Sean has held various significant roles, including serving with the Coastguard and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). His extensive expertise has led to leadership positions such as Vice-Chairman of Lowland Rescue and trustee roles within related organizations.
In recognition of his dedication, Sean was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s New Year Honours. Further acknowledging his contributions, he was unanimously elected as Chair of the Association of Lowland Search and Rescue (ALSAR) in October 2023, overseeing 34 search and rescue teams across the UK and Ireland.
Beyond his rescue service commitments, Sean is actively involved in managing family-owned businesses and serves as a director for multiple companies. His leadership and unwavering commitment have significantly enhanced search and rescue operations, ensuring community safety throughout Northern Ireland.
Assistant Chief Constable – Humberside Police
Assistant Chief Constable (ACC) Thom McLoughlin serves as a key member of the leadership team at Humberside Police, contributing to the force’s strategic direction and operations. In his role, ACC McLoughlin has been involved in various initiatives, including overseeing investigations and representing the force in public communications. For instance, he provided updates on the Legacy Independent Funeral Directors investigation, highlighting the submission of a comprehensive file to the Crown Prosecution Service following a meticulous ten-month inquiry.
Additionally, ACC McLoughlin has addressed public concerns, such as responding to social media speculation regarding potential protests in Hull. His leadership reflects Humberside Police’s commitment to transparency, community engagement, and the pursuit of justice.
Lord Provost of Glasgow
Councillor Jacqueline McLaren represents the Scottish National Party
She was elected in 2017 to represent Canal Ward 16 and then again in 2022 when she became Glasgow’s Lord Provost.
Glasgow first citizen was born in Maryhill in the north of the city. Her first home was in Rolland street, she later moved to the Valley area of Maryhill and grew up in and around the Forth and Clyde Canal.
Before being elected to represent Canal Ward the Lord Provost worked in her partner’s legal practice Ian C McCarthy Solicitors in the Partick area of Glasgow.
Her partner is a Solicitor-Advocate and has been in business for over thirty years with offices in both the East End and West End of Glasgow.
The couple have one son Christopher, who is a Doctor.
Lord Provost McLaren came into politics to empower her community and improve the lives of others.
Director & Chief Executive Scottish Chambers of Commerce
Coming Soon
Entering the awards is free. The first step is to fill in the contact information for you and your nominee. Nominations are open to the public, self-nominations, and emergency service organisations. To be eligible, nominees must work or volunteer within Scotland’s Emergency Services, and both individuals and organisations must be work based or registered In Scotland.
Please email info@bluelightsawards.com if you need any further assistance with the entry process.
For each category you must provide
This black-tie event brings together leading professionals from across Scotland’s Blue Light Services for a night of recognition, inspiration, and connection. It’s a unique opportunity to celebrate achievements, share stories, and honour the individuals and teams who go above and beyond in keeping our communities safe.
Individual Tickets: £120 + VAT
Table of 10: £1100 + VAT
• Drinks reception
• Networking opportunities with industry peers
• 4 course meal with table wine
• Awards presentation
• Entertainment
To reserve your ticket for the upcoming event, simply fill out the form below and a member of our events team will be in touch.
