We are absolutely delighted to share that our Chief Executive, Scott Darraugh, was awarded an MBE by Prince William at Windsor Palace — recognising his outstanding contribution to communities across Salford and beyond. It’s a moment we’re incredibly proud of, and one that can be shared with every single person who has been part of the Social adVentures story.

A Moment That Belongs to Everyone

The MBE is one of the UK’s most prestigious honours, awarded to those who have given significant, long-term service to society. For Scott, the moment was as much about the community as it was about him personally.

“It’s an incredible honour, but more than that, it’s a recognition of the power of community. Personally, it’s humbling to be acknowledged in this way. Professionally, it validates the belief that bold, people-centred innovation can reshape health, care, and wellbeing in a lasting way.”

True to form, Scott was quick to share the credit:

“The MBE is not about me alone — it belongs to the whole Social adVentures team, our commissioners, and the communities who put their trust in us.”

Fifteen Years in the Making

Social adVentures was founded in 2010, right at the height of the financial crisis — a time when resources were scarce and many doubted whether a social enterprise model could succeed. Fifteen years on, the organisation has grown into a vital part of Salford life, delivering health, wellbeing, and childcare services that have made a real and lasting difference to thousands of people.

Services like The Angel Centre and Garden Needs have created spaces for physical activity, mental health support, and genuine community connection — places where Salford residents can come as they are and leave feeling stronger.

Putting Children First

Social adVentures has also been quietly transforming the way children’s services are delivered — running three nurseries and, more recently, opening a children’s home. The social enterprise model means every decision is driven by outcomes, not profit.

Scott shared a moment that captures why this work matters so much:

“I’ll never forget a parent telling me that our nursery gave their child not just care, but a future — a place where they felt safe, inspired, and equal to any other child despite the odds stacked against them. That’s when you know the work matters.”

Grounded in Values

Scott draws his inspiration from figures like Nelson Mandela and Nye Bevan, guided always by fairness, courage, and community. He is honest about the challenges of leadership, too:

“I won’t pretend it’s easy, but I’ve learned to prioritise family time, tried to always stay rooted in community, and constantly remind myself that leadership is a marathon, not a sprint.”

What Comes Next

Far from seeing the MBE as the end of a chapter, Scott views it as a call to keep going — to continue reshaping services at local and national level, and to be part of a growing movement that puts communities at the heart of health and care.

“It’s the growing movement to rethink health and children’s services that excites me the most. We are part of a national and global conversation now — and I believe the next decade could be transformational if we keep centring solutions in community hands.”

From all of us at Social adVentures — congratulations, Scott. A big thank you from the whole community. 🤍