The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, The Lord Shuttleworth KG KCVO, has officially presented The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service to seven volunteer groups from Lancashire, including two from the Blackburn with Darwen area.
The Award is the MBE for groups of volunteers who work in their local community for the benefit of others.
The award ceremony was held on Wednesday 15 September at County Hall in Preston.
Each of the groups received a certificate signed by HM The Queen and an exclusive commemorative crystal, presented by Lord Shuttleworth. Both Groups also received a special endorsement for their work in the community during the Covid pandemic.
Lord Shuttleworth said:
“This year The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service has been awarded to two Groups for their voluntary work in Blackburn with Darwen:
Arts 2 Heal, Blackburn
A Mental Health Charity which is transforming lives, providing mental health support and skill-building through an art-based approach.
Blackburn Youth Zone
The organisation is enhancing the lives of children and young people across Blackburn with Darwen.
The service given by these groups is the shared effort and achievement of many volunteers. Their generous gift of time, expertise and willingness to serve the community is a shining light for Lancashire and improves many thousands of lives.
I congratulate and thank each and every Volunteer and enjoyed meeting them and presenting them with their awards on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen”
This prestigious UK national honour recognises outstanding voluntary contributions and sets the national benchmark for excellence in volunteering. With the work of those awarded being judged to be of the highest standard.
Seventy-seven groups from Lancashire have now received this annual award since it was created by Her Majesty to mark the occasion of her Golden Jubilee in 2002.
The other Lancashire 2021 winners are:
Beyond Radio Community Radio Station, Lancaster
Beyond Radio is providing a locally relevant information service alongside support for individuals, charities and community groups.
Community Solutions North West Ltd, Hyndburn
Community Solutions is a charity helping to support local communities to live healthier, happier lives and to reduce social isolation, loneliness and inequality.
Lancashire Youth Challenge, Lancaster
An organisation that is nurturing, supporting and challenging young people to overcome barriers and obstacles to achieve personal success.
The Mid Lancs Colts Junior Football League, South Ribble
A group providing grassroots football to over 3,000 children, promoting anti-racism through kicking racism out of football programme.
The Olive Branch, Lancaster
A group supporting the distressed, marginalised and vulnerable, relieving hunger and enabling people to resolve their difficulties.
For more information, contact Terry Hephrun, Chairman, the Lancashire QAVS Panel: terry.hephrun@btopenworld.com
