Area Society: Scottish Borders

'Dedicated to the protection, preservation, study and appreciation of Scotland’s historic buildings ... We have around 1000 members throughout Scotland and beyond, with six regional groups organising local activities and carrying out casework. We are supported by a fantastic network of volunteers without whom we could not operate.'

'Local groups are based in the Borders, Edinburgh, Fife, Glasgow and the Highlands (Inverness). These groups offer members (and non-members) a chance to meet other Humanists for interesting talks, discussion, socialising and much more. Membership of Humanist Society Scotland entitles you to attend their meetings, film nights, debates and social occasions.'

'We are the IET and we inspire, inform and influence the global engineering community to engineer a better world. As a diverse home across engineering and technology, we share knowledge that helps make better sense of the world in order to solve the challenges that matter. It’s why we are uniquely placed to champion engineering ... Local Networks are groups of members that come together to deliver a series of activities designed to promote the importance of science, engineering and technology to the general public, encourage young people to enter the profession and provide opportunities for engineers to share and develop knowledge and network with each other.''

'We are a dynamic educational charity with far-reaching influence and a mission to inspire and inform. By thinking geographically, championing good practice, working with leaders and experts, and engaging with public audiences, we are precisely placed to inform policy, influence joined-up decision making, and inspire action, all to help address national and global challenges. We use our networks, knowledge and reputation to shape positive, practical policy solutions ... We run the best national talks programme in Scotland, Inspiring People, with illustrated talks from September to March each year. Our inspiring speakers – explorers, scientists, artists, academics, naturalists, leaders, communicators and enthusiasts – bring us amazing stories of journeys and adventures, and refreshing insights into current issues.'

'The purpose of the Scottish Beekeepers Association is to support honey bees and beekeepers and to improve the standard of beekeeping, and to promote honey bee products in Scotland through: * The advancement of education in relation to the craft of beekeeping; * The advancement of the heritage, culture and science of beekeeping ; * The advancement of environmental protection by conservation of the honey bee.'  Over 40 Affiliated Beekeeping Associations support the work of the SBA.

'SOC exists to promote the study, enjoyment and conservation of wild birds and their habitats across Scotland. On the face of it, the SOC is a birdwatching club with 15 local branches across the country and a growing membership of over 3000. We bring together like-minded individuals with a passion for birds, nature and conservation, through a programme of talks, outings, conferences and via the Club's quarterly members' journal, Scottish Birds. We are heavily dependent on keen volunteers and the support of our membership.'

Founded 1933: 'We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming to all who share our interest in the wide range of plants that fall under the scope of the "rock garden" from the tiniest cushion plants to trees ... The SRGC supports local Groups in many parts of Scotland and the North of England and is always open to helping form new groups. The main remit of the SRGC is to spread the word and share the fascination for the plants at every level of expertise catering for all from the absolute beginner and the world’s top professionals at the same time'.

'Formed in 1947 to preserve the Antiquities of the district and provide a meeting ground for like minded people to enjoy and protect the exceptionally wide and fruitful field of historical, literary and archaeological lore which is available throughout the county ... Our evening talks are open to all.'