Seven volunteer organisations announced among groups honoured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK - the MBE for volunteer groups.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is an annual award made to recognise and reward the most exceptional and innovative groups who provide voluntary-led activities in the community.
262 charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups have this year received the prestigious award across the country, among them from Cumbria are:
• BEEP Doctors
• Cumbria Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs
• Kirkgate Arts and Heritage
• Maryport Inshore Rescue
• Maryport Solway Sea Cadets
• Self-Harm Awareness For All (SAFA)
• Susan’s Farm
The successful organisations will receive a certificate signed by HM The King and a glass crystal which will be presented by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Mr Alexander Scott. Furthermore, two volunteers from each group will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in 2024, along with other recipients of this year’s award.
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Mr. Alexander Scott said:
“The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest accolade for any voluntary organisation and I am thrilled that so many in Cumbria have achieved this exceptional national recognition. I would like to thank those recognised for their tireless work and commitment to the communities they serve. I warmly congratulate them. They are all thoroughly deserving of this singular recognition.”
“I am also immensely grateful to the many other voluntary groups across Cumbria doing excellent, innovative work, enhancing the lives and experiences of many in their local communities. I hope that this will prompt more nominations for next year’s round of awards.”
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said:
“Each year, millions of volunteers give up their time to provide care and support, and this award recognises those truly making a difference to the lives of others across the United Kingdom.”
“It’s brilliant to see the King continue the legacy of Her Late Majesty and reward those who support their local communities with kindness and compassion. Congratulations to all those who have been awarded.”
Sir Martyn Lewis CBE, the KAVS Chair said:
“I have no doubt that these awards will delight His Majesty The King, with his well-known commitment to volunteering, on his birthday. This year’s 262 King’s Awards for Voluntary Service honour truly impressive recipients across the length and breadth of the UK.”
“The awardees work selflessly as groups of volunteers to address every conceivable kind of local issue across all our communities. We owe them huge congratulations, but also much more than that for the inestimable value they bring to our society.”
BEEP Doctors provide critical emergency care to casualties beyond the level possible by ambulance/paramedic staff. They carry specialist equipment to use at the scene of incidents, stabilising patients before removal by ambulance to hospital. Their work is wholly voluntary and in addition to normal duties.
The Cumbria Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs is a democratic charitable youth organisation, run by members for members. Its members have the opportunity to learn new skills, take on responsibilities and organise events and activities for fellow young farmers within a safe and supportive environment. Older members mentor younger members, ensuring a robust support network for all.
Kirkgate Arts and Heritage is an entertainment, cultural and community venue in Cockermouth. They provide professional live music, theatre and cinema along with heritage activities and a weekly youth theatre group. Their spaces are used by many other community groups. They also run ‘Arts Out West’ with village halls throughout West Cumbria.
Maryport Inshore Rescue save the lives of both people, animals and property in danger. They have the training and expertise to support other emergency services: Coastguard; Police; Fire; Ambulance; Air Ambulance, and educate schools and community groups about water safety. They also undertake training, maintenance of their property, boats, vehicles and equipment, and fundraising.
Maryport Solway Sea Cadets promote the development of young people in order to achieve their physical, intellectual and social potential as individuals. They provide opportunities for young people to obtain qualifications and community involvement, and deliver a structured environment in which to develop.
Self-Harm Awareness For All (SAFA) is based in Barrow and provides high quality counselling for those who are self-harming and their families. Self-harm includes a wide range of behaviours from over/under eating, excessive consumption of drugs or alcohol, and other excesses such as work and exercise. The resulting harms can manifest themselves in many ways from depression to physical self-harm.
Susan’s Farm provides Care Farming to a small number of vulnerable beneficiaries as well as providing educational visits for local primary and secondary schools, and visits for other community organisations including the Girlguides and Scouts, and the general public.
Penrith and The Border MP Dr Neil Hudson said
"I'm delighted to see so many exemplary local volunteer organisations in the heart of Cumbria, embodying the very essence of community spirit.
"This prestigious accolade reflects the unwavering commitment and selfless dedication of the volunteers who tirelessly contribute to the betterment of our community.
"Their commitment to volunteering not only enriches the lives of individuals but also strengthens the social fabric of our community and I am proud to represent and advocate for them in Westminster."
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