Posted on Tuesday 2nd June 2020
Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Mr Ian Dudson CBE KStJ
Four voluntary groups from across Staffordshire have been honoured with Her Majesty the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
The honour recognises outstanding voluntary contributions in local communities and has an equivalent status for voluntary groups as the MBE has for individuals.
Groups recognised in this year’s awards include:
- Erasmus Darwin Museum Volunteers - Lichfield
- SARAC – Burton upon Trent
- The Friends of Hednesford Park (TFOHP) - Cannock
- The Hub, Fenton – Stoke on Trent
In the coming months, the 4 groups will receive their certificate signed by Her Majesty The Queen along with an exclusive commemorative crystal presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Mr Ian Dudson CBE KStJ who is Her Majesty's representative for the County.
Mrs Jennifer Arthur, Chairman of the Erasmus Darwin Foundation said:
“Our team of volunteers perform a wide range of roles at the museum including welcoming visitors, education sessions for children, and assisting with events. Without all their valuable commitment and support the museum would be unable to function. I was therefore thrilled to learn that their dedication had been recognised with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service”
Mr Kelvin Stephens, Chairperson of The Friends of Hednesford Park said:
“We are delighted to be awarded the Queen's Award for Voluntary Services. The award recognises the dedication of our amazing team of volunteers who deliver weekly support groups for Mental Well-being and regular activities for the community in Hednesford Park. Even in the current unprecedented time, we have continued to support the local community in any way we can.”
The Hub’s Volunteer Manager Carole Kind said:
“What fantastic news and wonderful reward for the hard work of our team of volunteers at The Hub Fenton. During the last year alone, they contributed an incredible 3,840 hours! Such dedication is vital in the day to day running of the centre. I am delighted that they have received the recognition they so richly deserve.”
SARAC Services Manager, Amanda Baker said:
“We are delighted and humbled to receive such a prestigious award. It is a huge boost to morale and we are proud that the dedication of our amazing volunteers, past and present, have been recognized in this way.”
Speaking about the winners, Mr Dudson said:
“I am delighted that we have again secured more winners this year. Once again they are shining examples of the hundreds of organisations in our wonderful County whose volunteers improve the lives of others every day.
“We are all extremely grateful for what they do and I send them my warmest congratulations. I look forward to presenting their awards to each of them later in the year as soon as we come through this very difficult period.”
Mrs Kath Perry, Chairman of Staffordshire County Council added:
“I am amazed at such diversity in The Volunteer Groups in Staffordshire.
“It is clear to me that the people of Staffordshire are always ready to help in any way they can without seeking reward. Only on days like today do we have the opportunity to pay tribute to the many people who give so freely of their time and expertise to the benefit of others. Staffordshire is a wonderful place to live, work and play and today confirms that. Once again my sincere congratulations on their achievements.”
Representatives from the groups have also received an invitation to attend a future Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.
To date 98 groups from Staffordshire have received this annual Award since it was created by Her Majesty in 2002.
There were a total of 230 winners this year. For further details and information on how to nominate a group visit https://qavs.direct.gov.uk/ where a nomination form can be completed and submitted online. Nominations for 2021 need to be submitted by 25th September 2020.