LOCAL heroes who give up their time for good causes in Warwickshire can be put forward for the equivalent of an MBE.
Warwickshire County Council and the Warwickshire Lieutenancy are encouraging residents to nominate volunteering groups, charities and social enterprises across the county for a King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS).
The award, previously known as The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, has been shining a light on the work of voluntary groups across the UK since it was set-up in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee.
The newly named King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK, acknowledges the work of volunteers who benefit their communities. All recipients receive a certificate signed by the King, a domed glass crystal, and may also be invited to attend a royal garden party.
Tim Cox, Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire, the King’s representative in the county, recently met with members of Kissing it Better to present the charity with one of Warwickshire’s last Queen’s Awards for Voluntary Service in recognition of their work in the county.
The charity addresses social isolation among the elderly and helps young people to improve their confidence by matching young volunteers with older people who have similar interests.
Mr Cox said: “The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the ultimate recognition for charitable organisations and volunteer groups, and I invite everyone to help us in recognising these remarkable volunteers across the county who support Warwickshire in a multitude of ways.
“Let us shine a light on these exceptional groups and individuals and nominate them for a King’s Award for Voluntary Service.”
WCC spokeswoman Heather Timms said volunteers played a vital role in communities.
“We would like to thank Warwickshire’s volunteers for their time and dedication and believe it’s important that their efforts and contributions are recognised. One great way to do this is to nominate a group for The King’s Award for Voluntary Service this year.”
Visit www.gov.uk/kings-award-for-voluntary-service for more information, or tinyurl.com/j7wnkrrz to make a nomination before the deadline of September 15.
Contact Warwickshire Lieutenancy at [email protected] for support in completing a nomination.
