Declarations of Interest and Transparency Statements
Members are asked to declare an interest or make a transparency statement in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief explanation of the nature of the interest or the transparency statement.
"Declaration of ‘Dolly Day’ in Renfrewshire
Council notes:
• That 2026 marks the 80th birthday of Dolly Parton, an internationally respected artist, philanthropist and advocate for literacy.
• That Dolly Parton is the founder of the Imagination Library, a globally recognised early years literacy programme which gifts free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five.
• That the Imagination Library operates successfully in Renfrewshire, supporting families, improving early language development, encouraging a lifelong love of reading, and helping to reduce educational inequality.
• That early years literacy is strongly linked to improved educational outcomes, wellbeing, confidence, and life chances for children across all communities.
Council recognises:
• The significant positive impact the Imagination Library has had for children and families across Renfrewshire, particularly in supporting early learning, parental engagement, and inclusion.
• The value of partnership working between the Council, community organisations, and national partners in delivering the Imagination Library locally.
• Dolly Parton’s enduring commitment to children, education and opportunity, which aligns closely with Renfrewshire Council’s priorities around tackling inequality, improving wellbeing, and investing in our youngest residents.
Council therefore resolves:
• To formally declare a ‘Dolly Day’ in Renfrewshire, to be marked annually, in honour of Dolly Parton’s 80th birthday and her outstanding contribution to literacy and early years development through the Imagination Library.
• To use ‘Dolly Day’ as an opportunity to celebrate reading, imagination and learning, and to promote the benefits of the Imagination Library to families across Renfrewshire.
• To encourage schools, early years settings, libraries, and community organisations to participate in age-appropriate celebrations and activities which highlight the importance of books, storytelling and imagination.
• To reaffirm the Council’s support for initiatives that improve early years outcomes and help ensure every child in Renfrewshire has the best possible start in life."
"Renfrewshire Carers Centre 30th Anniversary
Council notes that January 2026 marked the 30th anniversary of Renfrewshire Carers Centre, established from the campaigning work of “Carers Action Renfrew District” and funding from the Princess Royal Carers Trust. A year of celebratory activity follows.
Council recognises the growth of the centre, which started with 2 members of staff and has grown to 81 staff and over 30 volunteers, to help meet the identified needs of carers locally.
Council recognises the major social and economic contribution the centre has in Renfrewshire and congratulates all the staff, volunteers and carers involved over the last 30 years."