Aberdeenshire Council ends whisky gifts for milestone celebrations

Local authority shifts focus from whisky to cards amid budget cuts and health concerns.

Aberdeenshire Council has announced a significant change in its approach to celebrating milestone anniversaries and birthdays for elderly residents. The local authority will no longer distribute bottles of whisky as gifts, a decision driven by both financial constraints and health considerations.

This move marks the end of a tradition that has cost the council approximately £3,000 annually over the past five years.

Financial constraints and changing perceptions

The decision to discontinue the whisky gifts comes amid a broader effort by the council to tighten its budget.

Councillors have expressed concerns that the practice of gifting alcohol, particularly whisky, may not present the best image for the council, especially considering the health implications associated with alcohol consumption among the elderly. Councillor Gwyneth Petrie, a member of the Scottish National Party (SNP), voiced her support for the change, stating, “I disagree with giving whisky anyway for various reasons, particularly around some of our health factors.”

Transitioning to cards and small gifts

In place of the traditional whisky gifts, the council will now recognize milestone events with a simple card. While some councillors have expressed nostalgia for the previous practice, they acknowledge the need for a more appropriate approach. Councillor Mark Findlater reminisced about the positive reception of gifts in the past but agreed that adjustments are necessary given the current financial climate. “We are in challenging times financially, but it is a relatively small amount so I agree there is maybe something we should do,” he stated.

Future considerations for celebratory gifts

As the council navigates these changes, there is a call for more thoughtful consideration of how to honor residents during significant life events. Councillor Petrie suggested that if the council opts to send cards, it might be more efficient to mail them rather than have councillors deliver them in person. This shift not only addresses budgetary concerns but also aligns with a growing awareness of health issues related to alcohol consumption.

While the council has decided to halt the distribution of whisky and medals during citizenship ceremonies, discussions are ongoing about how to best celebrate residents’ milestones in the future. Council leader Gillian Owen has committed to revisiting the topic and exploring alternative ways to recognize these important occasions.

This decision reflects a broader trend among local authorities to reassess traditional practices in light of changing societal values and economic realities. As Aberdeenshire Council moves forward, it will be essential to find a balance between honoring residents and adhering to responsible governance.