2005 Award Winners

A-H | I-Q | R-Z

Aghalee Village Hall Management Committee
Aghalee Village Hall Management Committee has run the Village Hall for over 70 years to provide local residents with a focal point for their social, educational and recreational activities which the local Councils are sometimes reluctant to provide. Hardly a day goes by without some activity taking place in the hall and these include Tiny Tots Playgroup who meet on four mornings a week, a Day Centre for the elderly on one day each week, dog training classes, junior ballet, a Junior Sports Club, Alcoholics Anonymous meet twice a week while local badminton clubs make frequent use of the facilities available, as well as local art classes. The local Development Association also hold their monthly meetings in the hall. However we do endeavour to keep Friday evenings clear of routine bookings as the hall is becoming increasingly popular as allocation for private functions and particularly birthday parties for both young and old.

Ever since the hall was built in 1933, in conjunction with the Carnegie Trust, it has been run by dedicated teams of volunteers who are elected each year at the AGM. The hall does have charitable status. One of the major concerns of the committee is to keep it in as good a state of repair as possible in order that it will continue to be appreciated by all the user groups. When the presentation is made later in the year, it is hoped that many of the previous members of the committee or their relatives will be present to share in the occasion. All of the committee were delighted with the news of the award and none more so than the Hon Secretary – Mrs Pauline Buller – who said ”It is a great privilege to receive such a prestigious award and a pleasure to accept it on behalf of both the current committee and all of those who have gone before. Each committee member merely acts in a caretaker capacity during their stewardship of the hall.”

On Saturday 20th August the Committee will run the Annual Sports and Fun Day on the local sports field which will be followed by a BBQ and Dance in the Village Hall. They have also been fortunate in persuading Lisburn City Council to run a “Childrens Summer Scheme” based on the Village Hall from 8th-12th August and in September the Management Committee will host a visit from Lisburn Community Forum to assist in the promotion of “best practise” for all local community groups in the area. Upper Bann Institute already provide assistance with the running of the art classes but this year we are negotiating with them to run additional courses in the hall. Hopefully these will cover PCs for Beginners, Aromatherapy/Reflexology and other women’s studies and Flower Arranging.

The Chairman says ” We have done it and won it”

Contact: David Twigg
Phone: 02892 651081
Email: david.twigg3@btinternet.com

The Aintree Volunteer Scheme

Established for ten years, The Aintree Volunteer Scheme aims to improve conditions for patients staying at Aintree Hospitals NHS Trust.

They assist with improving basic comfort, care needs and relieving the heavy non-clinical workload on nursing staff. Alongside this the Scheme provides volunteers with health care experience that has influenced many of them to pursue careers within the NHS.

The scheme covers most of the hospitals in the area.

Volunteer service manager Theresa Owen says she is very pleased the group has won this award, “ We try to work alongside the NHS to make sure people’s stays are as relaxed as possible.”

Barnabus
Established for over 14 years, 'Barnabus' provides practical and emotional support for women engaged in the street sex industry and homeless people in Manchester. With over 100 volunteers working three days per week the group befriends individuals and aims to meet the needs of those struggling with substance abuse, alcoholism and mental health problems in addition to their homelessness.

The group also provides practical support on the streets in the shape of food and soup runs and medical facilities via mobile facilities and a fixed resource building that offers food, showers, laundry and educational facilities.

Despite numerous government initiatives 'Barnabus' was established in response to the evident need of the homeless and destitute community in Manchester, which remains socially isolated.

Although a funded charity, 'Barnabus' finds the need for resources a constant demand especially since the group has had to constantly relocate due to the sometimes-hostile opinion of local residents and traders.

Project Director Peter Green says they are glad to be recognised for the dedication and hard work that has been stretched over the past 14 years.

"We are extremely happy to be recognised for the Queen's Award after the time and effort we have put into helping less fortunate people in our local community over the past 14 years. We will continue to help people in our community and hopefully this recognition will emphasise that our services are here and available."

Contact: Peter Green 0161 7934334
Email: barnabus.beacon@btinternet.com
Website: www.barnabus-manchester.org.uk

BCD Credit-Union
' BCD Credit-Union' is a community business that offers a range of important financial services to more than 5,000 local people who otherwise would not be able to get financial assistance. Members take out loans according to the amount of shares they have invested in and pay the money back at small interest rate.

Established in 1989 'BCD Credit-Union' has five paid employees with 14 volunteers who provide an essential service to the 40% of local people who do not have access to any financial services. In the last four years they have lent £6.5 million and have an annual turnover of almost £3 million.

Working hard to improve people's quality of life, the well-trained staff at 'BCD Credit-Union,' have a reputation for trust and confidence in the area. They have extended their service with house insurance (in partnership with Norwich Union), a death benefit scheme and a new group in Gownhead.

Elizabeth Redmond, Group Leader, says, "We are very grateful for receiving this award as it recognises all our hard work- it is owned by the members and works for the members."

Mrs Elizabeth Redmond
Ph: 0141 550 4171
Mr George Redmond ( Elizabeth 's son) and a founder member
Ph: 0141 550 4171
www.bcdcreditunion.co.uk

BCM Volunteers
BCM Volunteers ( Belfast , Northern Ireland ) work on behalf of BCM, a charity which is an agency of the Methodist Church and which was founded in 1889. Motivated by its Christian beliefs, BCM offers help through a range of community projects and professionally managed Social Work projects. The aim is to meet the needs within the community, irrespective of religion or politics.

The aim of the group is to help BCM in its work with children, young people and older people. It does this by providing a broad range of services which include amongst other things annual cross-community holidays, a weekly lunch club, sorting and distributing toys for thousands of disadvantaged children at Christmas, befriending and mentoring, and providing on-going support in a range of BCM's projects.They also help the fundraising department of BCM by filling envelopes for appeals and by participating in street collections.

In keeping with the Mission 's ethos the volunteers work for the development of the whole person, body, mind and spirit. In particular with the children who attend the holidays they provide significant opportunities for cross-community encounters and through play begin to teach the children respect for difference. As the children attend the holidays over a period of four years, with follow-up reunions, these values are considerably reinforced in their young lives. The children also develop self esteem which can be seen in their relationships with their peer groups and with adults. Similarly, the mentoring programme with young people enables them to develop self-confidence and provides them with the support to achieve goals and learn new skills.

The programme for older people has been designed to counteract social isolation amongst this group and to add quality to the life of the individual. In particular the holiday programme enables older people to develop new friendships, to share in reminiscences and to have fun, especially through the evening entertainment programme. The weekly luncheon club, through the winter months, helps to sustain these friendships and during the most difficult months of the year encourages people to leave their own homes on a regular basis. The befriending programme has further developed this work on a one-to-one basis for those older people who have expressed feelings of loneliness.

Finally the Christmas Programme makes a significant contribution to those families and older people who, because of lack of resources, find this time of the year particularly difficult.

Community Services Manager, Janet Sewell says:
"We are absolutely delighted to receive this award which recognises the ongoing commitment and dedication of our volunteers. The donation of their free time is a gift which they generously give to BCM and which enhances all aspects of the organisation's work."

Contact: Mrs Janet Sewell
Ph: 028 9024 1917

Beith Playpark Action Group
'Beith Playpark Action Group' is a Scottish charity established to build a play park for local children. Raising £140, 000, the group has achieved its initial aims with park equipment installed including a multi sports hall, a toddlers play area, a tennis court, a play area for 5-16 year olds and a teenage meeting shelter.

Since the group's formation in December 2000, the members have worked very hard for the small community. Everyone from young teenagers to OAP's worked together over four and a half years to ensure the projects success.

It is through the great support from North Ayrshire council, the public and the committee that 'Beith Playpark Action Group' has successfully negotiated the ups and downs. The results speak for themselves with the group recently receiving £25,000 to secure installation for a skateboarding area in the park.

Mrs Winnie Buckley Group Leader says:
"The award is phenomenal as this award means the world to us as it means our hard work has been appreciated and recognised. I was gob smacked when we found out! After the hard work it is really amazing to be rewarded."

Contact: Mrs Winnie Buckley
Ph: 01505 504 941

Biddulph East Resident's Association
This group was set up by a group of volunteers in 1998 to run a whole range of projects and activities including intergenerational events, fun days, computer training, jumble sales, smoke alarm referrals, a local jobs board and a watchdog service. A resource centre was built in 2001 which offers a wide range of services and a meeting place for local people. The group consists of about 15 volunteers who also work closely with the local high school to help those who require extra assistance with their schooling.

The group is delighted to receive the award as they work so selflessly and tirelessly for the good of the community and are such a great team of volunteers, many who are prepared to work 24 hours a day to help others.

Contact: Sylvia Rushton 01782 522 950

Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team
Established for 42 years, Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team provide basic life support and rescue to people injured outdoors in the Lancashire area.

As Lancashire contains many isolated rural areas this is a vital service. However the Group also help police search for missing people in urban parts of the county, being called out around seventy times a year.

Local funding and a number of skilled volunteers make the service available all year round.

Team Leader Tony Bond says he is delighted the Team has been recognised for their work, "We are proud of the job we do and it is fantastic to be given this award."

Contact: Tony Bond
Phone: 01200 448 682

Brunshaw Action Group
Established for four years, Brunshaw Action Group aims to improve community relations while reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

The Group has been responsible for a number of successful initiatives including the creation of a community centre and an outing for young and elderly residents, designed to encourage mutual understanding and communication.

Local fundraising and a number of volunteers help the Group exist and cater for a diverse range of needs.

Manager Michael Bailey says the Group are delighted to be recognised with this award, "We have worked hard to make the local area a better place to live."

Contact: Michael Bailey (Manager, Brunshaw Action Group)
Phone:01282 715 400

Caldercruix Youth & Community Development Project
The 'Caldercruix Youth & Community Development Project' is an organisation providing services for various communities within the village of Caldercruix .

Established ten years ago the project provides facilities for the young community in the form of music, drama, arts and craft and wall climbing. The older community are drawn together with the youth group via a lunch club four days a week and for two afternoons a week in the winter they organise indoor bowls.

Fundraising has been successfully achieved through grants and the local council with £240,000 raised to build a play park, providing village children and teenagers with an area to skateboard and play football.

Group Leader Jamie Tracey says:
"The project has created a warm and friendly environment where all the community can socialise. There is a crossover between pensioners and teenagers to create a diverse community project and an environment where people have a sense of ownership. The award will be great to generate publicity and will help with the funding to extend our facilities."

Contact: Jamie Tracey
Ph: 01236 843 503
Email: caldercruix@hotmail.co.uk
Website www.cruix.co.uk

Caring for Life
Set up in 1987 to help homeless young people in the Leeds area to re-establish their lives with two main projects which meet their housing needs - the residential project - two fully staffed homes (one for men and another for women) and the resettlement project, to house young people independently.

As well as this, the group runs a work experience project - which offers more than just training, and gives young people a sense of achievement and self-respect. The group has a network of volunteers to help with fundraising at events such as barn dances, coffee mornings, quiz nights and sponsored events which provide them with much needed funds to support their cause.

Group Leader Peter Parkinson says:
"We are honoured to be recognised for this prestigious award and to be given the royal stamp of approval. We will continue to help people re-establish their lives and build a better life for them."

Contact: Peter Parkinson
Phone :0113 230 3604
Website: www.caringforlife.co.uk

Carlisle and District Remap
Established for twenty years Carlisle and District Remap relieves and rehabilitates people with disabilities, by providing specialised equipment to help people complete everyday lifestyle tasks.

The group consists of unpaid engineers, technicians and practical crafts people who dedicate their time and expertise to find solutions to improve the person's quality of life.

Disabled people are often referred to Carlisle and District Remap by their Occupational Therapist. After referral, volunteers will visit them to discuss their requirements and analyse their situation. Thereafter, volunteers and health professionals discuss what can be done and production begins.

Despite the growing availability of commercial technical aids, the demand for one-off solutions continues to be high. Recent designs have included a chair and computer desk to allow a disabled student to study in greater comfort, and a device to enable a disabled gentleman to open his windows.

Group Secretary Margaret Kaye says the group are delighted to receive this prestigious award, "our volunteers deserve to be recognised for the tireless effort they put into helping those less fortunate lead an independent life."

Contact: Margaret Kaye (Group Secretary, Carlisle and District Remap)
Phone: 01228 576 603
Website: http://www.remap.org.uk/

Channel Islands Air Search
Channel Islands Air Search provides a rapid response airborne search facility in the waters surrounding the Channel Islands. The trust is registered as a charity in Guernsey. The trustees include residents of both Guernsey and Jersey.

The service owns and operates a Britten-Norman Islander aircraft, based in Guernsey, which is used to locate casualties at sea when called upon by the coastguard authorities in the Channel Islands, UK and Frnace. As secondary roles the Service assists in pollution control and is utilised by the Police in the Channel Islands to assist in searching for missing persons on shore.

To fulfil the role the aircraft has been fitted with specialist navigational and search and rescue equipment.

The service is available for call-out24 hours a day, 365 days per year.

Honorary Secretary of the group Ian Larby says the group are thrilled with winning the Award.

"We are thrilled with winning this prestigious Award. We hope to keep helping the community by providing a worthwhile service that will continue to help others in danger."

Contact - Mr Ian Larby (Honorary Secretary)
Phone - 01481 231007

Childhood Incest Survivors (C.I.S)

Established for nine years, C.I.S. supports women who have been victims of incest.

This year alone they have helped 660 survivors. They try to empower them and give them the care and support they need to get though their traumatic experiences. The group also seek to raise general and professional awareness of childhood incest.

Founder and core facilitator Gillian Finch says she is delighted about the award, “Our volunteers work hard to deliver this vital service and help victims of incest deal with their past.”

Contact: Mrs Gillian Finch
Phone: 02380 338 080

Christian Care Association
Established for fifteen years, the Christian Care Association helps the homeless by running a night shelter and day care centre where they can discuss their problems and learn life skills including numeracy, literacy and cooking.

The group provides assistance for young asylum seekers and substance abusers by offering them accommodation, medical services and counselling.

Volunteer Co-ordinator Sylvie Johnston says she is very happy the group has been recognised, "We are dedicated to helping those in need and are delighted to win this award."

Contact: Sylvie Johnston (Volunteer Co-ordinator, Christian Care Association)
Phone: 01243 537 934
Website: http://www.stonepillow.org.uk/

Cloud 9
Cloud 9 organise a 'dream holiday' for chronically sick children (age 8 -16 years) or those who have serious ill health and suffer from physical disabilities in the Gloucestershire area.

The Group enables children who would otherwise be denied the experience of a holiday to go on a dream trip to Disney World in Florida.

The group is unique in that it offers a holiday and an umbrella of medical care. It was formed in 1986 when a young boy with an incurable disease had a dream to go to Disney. His family couldn't take him as he needed 24 hour medical care and equipment so local residents raised money for a carer and doctor to go along and he had his dream.

There are two main prongs of the charity are the fundraising committee who organise events to raise money to fund the trip and the volunteers who organise the actual holiday and itinerary for the trip to Disney.

Cloud 9 send one group of up to 24 children plus carers to Florida every year for a 2 week all expenses paid trip. Prior to the trip (9 months before), the children get to meet their carers who will be accompanying them. The children are introduced to the group, usually by referrals from doctors.

The Group has gone through setbacks, but has managed to continue to run and exists because people care. There are always kids who are suffering. The group plans to continue raising money for these trips and continue to provide them.

Website: www.cloud9.org.uk

Codford Youth Group Network
The 'Codford Youth Group Network' (CYGNET) is an important initiative combating the alienation that occurs between the young and old. By finding ways of engaging the young community in activities and occupations that divert them from a potential path of criminality, they are given the opportunity to develop into contributing young adults.

'CYGNET' was set up in 2001 as a response to the damage and fear created by an increased campaign of minor vandalism carried out by a group of local teenagers. The subsequent adverse publicity in the local newspaper served to alienate the young community, as Codford village was increasingly perceived as a centre of anti-social behaviour.

'CYGNET' experienced fundraising difficulties in its first phase as it tried to raise funds for a much needed Meeting Place and Sports Area. However, persistence and the dedication of parents and young people have made the proposals a reality: with vandalism reduced and improved relations between old and young.

Simon Firth Group Leader says:
"We are honoured to have won this prestigious award. By speaking with the young people and finding effective ways to communicate with them we were enable to build and maintain successful relationships."

Contact: Simon Firth
Ph: 01985 850767

The Community Bereavement Service
The Community Bereavement Service provides a Bereavement counselling service for the Island of Jersey ; it is confidential and free of charge and has been developed under the umbrella of Jersey Hospice Care.

It offers support and counselling to anyone who has suffered a loss regardless of the nature of the Bereavement, our aim is to help clients achieve understanding and acceptance of their new circumstances, to support them through one of the most traumatic life events when they are at their most vulnerable, hopefully allowing them to move on and resume a fulfilling life albeit different from the one they knew before.

To allow the expansion of the Hospice Bereavement Service to embrace the wider community volunteers had to be recruited to assist the Service Manager.

Following extensive training the first 6 Bereavement Support Workers began working on 15 th February 1995, since that date our community referrals have increased from 59 to an average of 330 per year. Subsequently further training courses have taken place and we now have 14 volunteer Bereavement Support Workers who do the work of 4 full time members of staff, the service would not be finically viable without them.

Since 2002 our aim has been to provide education to the wider community, to this end we have hosted major seminars on "Families who Grieve," "Bereavement the Male Perspective," and this year our planned topic in "Sudden Death and Suicide" which takes place on June 10 th 2005 at a local conference centre.

To receive the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in our 10 th Anniversary year is a wonderful recognition of the volunteers' hard work and dedication to the service.

Contact: Mrs Sheila Warren
Ph: 01534 285144

Dacorum Talking Newspaper

Established for over twenty-six years, Dacorum Taking Newspaper provides access to local news and information for people suffering sensory disabilities.

The local gazette is issued on Wednesday and by Saturday it has been recorded on to tape, edited and sent out though the post to blind and partially sighted members of the community. The group has also been responsible for a number of charitable initiatives such as the refurbishment of the kitchen at the Hemel Hempstead Care Centre.

Secretary Audrey Mackie says she was very happy about the award, “We are committed to helping people with sensory disabilities keep up to date with local news and events.”

Contact: Mrs Audrey Mackie
Phone: 01442 217 918
Website: http://www.dtnhemel.org.uk/

Dedridge Good Neighbourhood Network
'Dedridge Good Neighbourhood Network' is a local voluntary organisation that provides a care scheme through a voluntary support network. There are several groups in the community centre providing exercise classes, lunch clubs for the elderly, a mother and baby group, craft classes.

Serving over 100 meals a week to the elderly, the organisation also provides a transport scheme with voluntary drivers taking people to and from the health centre, hospital appointments and social trips.

The volunteers strive to make sure all the requests are met and everyone is happy and hope that the service they provide is kept up to its current standards by securing future funding.

Group Spokesperson Eileen Milne says:
"The award would be very important and a great opportunity to thank the volunteers because without them the network wouldn't run."

Contact: Eileen Milne or Kim Robinson
Phone: 01506 416 137

Ebony Steel Band Trust
Established now for over 35 years the 'Ebony Steel Band Trust' is a highly successful organisation that encourages an appreciation of steel pan music and its associated culture. Working in partnership with other organisations such as 'Connexions' the group also provides important training opportunities for youngsters and has a pivotal role as a means to promote essential social cohesion for the Caribbean community in London.

The aim of Ebony Steel Band is to engage with local young people from deprived backgrounds and work with them to improve their self-esteem and increase their interest in learning about different types of culture.

The group also has bands performing at the Notting Hill Carnival each year and volunteers run interactive workshops teaching children how to play and the history of the steel pan. The group has also taken part in international festival and in 2004 was named the UK and European Champions.

Through winning the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service the group hopes to receive funding for new premises. Director of Ebony Steel Band Trust Pepe Francis says the group is delighted about winning the accolade and hopes the recognition will aid in seeking more funding.

"We are delighted to win the Queen's Award and to help young people understand the Caribbean Music and Culture. We hope that by receiving this recognition we will gain some funding for new premises"

Contact: Pepe Francis 02077 921418
Email: services@ebony.org.uk

Eastern Valley Tenants Panel
Established in 1996, Eastern Valley Tenants Panel work to ensure services provided by Eastern Valley Housing Association are in line with tenants' requirements.

The Panel co-ordinate activities focused on improving living conditions. Working closely with the Housing Association, the Panel have established agreed service standards and endeavour to ensure these are maintained.

Tenants are encouraged to become involved with the Panel and assist by distributing information, attending meetings and monitoring contractors from a customer service perspective.

Chairperson Val Evans says the Panel are very pleased to have won this award, "We are committed to making sure tenants' needs are met and it is fantastic to have our hard work recognised."

Contact: Val Evans (Chairperson, Eastern Valley Tenants Panel)
Phone: 08453 101 102
Website: http://www.evha.co.uk/tenantspanel/

East Surrey Domestic Violence Forum

Established for eleven years, the East Surrey domestic Violence Forum provides protection, support and assistance to victims of domestic violence.

A shelter is available to victims fleeing violence. The group also try to stop repeat offenders of domestic violence by targeting the causes of violence through therapy. They are trying to support the agencies that deal with the causes or effects of domestic violence, along with increasing awareness of domestic violence though forums and advertising campaigns.

Chairperson Mary Whitfield says she is very pleased about the award, “We try to make sure sufferers of domestic violence know where to come as soon as it happens, allowing them to move into a shelter and ensuring the violence stops.”

Contact: Mrs Mary Whitfield (Chairperson)
Phone: 01737 771 350
Website: www.esdvf.org.uk

Eritrean Muslim Community Association
Established for fifteen years, the Eritrean Muslim Community Association helps Eritrean people living in London by providing guidance, representation, counselling and interpretation for a range of issues including asylum applications.

The Association tries to preserve the Eritrean Community’s Cultural Heritage and offers supplementary schooling, language classes and recreational activities.

Chair of Management Committee Khaild Omer says he is very happy about the award, “We are dedicated to assisting the people of Eritrea and helping them maintain their culture and traditions in a foreign country.”

Contact: Mr Khaild Omer (Chair of Management Committee)
Phone: 020 7723 4001

Escape Family Support Ltd

Established for nine years, Escape Family Support supplies a range of services for people with drug and alcohol abuse problems. They also try to help their families and carers.

The group provides a helpline that is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. To complement this alterative therapies like Indian Head Massages and Reflexology are available to help people overcome their addictions.

Escape also tries to raise awareness of drugs and alcohol issues within the local communities of Northumberland. In helping around 777 people this year they have benefited the whole community by making the streets safer.

Project Manger Janet Murphy says she is very happy that the group has won this award, “We work very hard to ensure that help is provided for people who abuse drugs or alcohol and their families.”

Contact: Mrs Janet Murphy (Project Manger)
Phone: 01670 544 055

Families In Need (FIND)

Established for fourteen years, FIND is a Christian based charity whose objective is to relieve poverty in the Ipswich area.

They aim to support both individuals and families by giving them the necessary facilities, money and household items to survive. A number of volunteers help to make this service available.

Chairman Mrs Maureen Reynel says she very pleased about the award, “We endeavour to offer assistance to people struggling to make ends meet.”

Contacts: Mrs Maureen Reynel
Phone: 01473 833 351

Ferguson Lane Community Association
'Ferguson Lane Community Association' provides companionship and support for many vulnerable elderly people. Located in one of the most socially and economically disadvantaged areas of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, it provides a service that is in many cases a vital lifeline to individuals.

The association started 25 years ago and has since become a focal point for the community, attracting more than 100 people each week. The volunteers provide members with a range of social activities, luncheon clubs, celebratory events and excursions in the summer months.

The 'Ferguson Lane Community Association' is exceptional for its respected status in an area where praise is not frequently lavished. Their continued success of the association is attributed to the constant stream of new members it attracts, who bring in new energy and ideas.

Mr Sydney Gibson, Association Treasurer says:
"It's wonderful that the north is being recognised by the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. We are very proud and hope that the inspiration of the volunteers continues."

Contact: Mr Sydney Gibson
Ph: 0191 2741254

Ford Park Cemetery Trust
The Trust took over the ownership and management of Ford Park Cemetery, Plymouth, in April 2000 with the aim of restoring this 34-acre Victorian cemetery which was sadly overgrown and vandalised. The Trust’s objectives are the restoration of the Cemetery as a working cemetery, as an open space for the public benefit and as an educational and heritage resource.

Dr Henry Will, Chairman of the Trust, said: “The progress the Trust has made towards the achievement of its aims is astonishing and is in large measure due to the unselfish commitment of its volunteers. The success of the project illustrates what can be achieved when dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers have the wholehearted support of their local authority, the professionals in their industry and their community and we are very fortunate to have the unqualified support of all three.

Contact: Dr Henry Will 01752 770 311

Furniture Link
'Furniture Link' is an innovative group that re-cycles furniture and household goods for people in need in Bedfordshire. The volunteers are inspirational in themselves as most of them come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Since 1998 their reputation has strengthened in their local area as their ceaseless hard work and success at encouraging the disadvantage to come in and buy the recycled furniture has been recognised. They also have recently implemented a 'handyman' project, which provides the disadvantaged community with a means of having general jobs undertaken.

'Furniture Link' currently has 300 referral agencies but is encouraging people to use them more often. The organisation would especially welcome more volunteers and funding to extend their valuable work by enabling investment in more transport and a bigger centre.

Spokesperson Kathy Lewis says, "We have a reputation for helping people who find it difficult to volunteer and, through winning the award-the exceptional efforts of our volunteers have now been recognised."

Contact: Kathy Lewis 01234 353578
Email: mail@flb.org.uk

Gatwick Detainees Welfare Group

Established for over eight years, the Gatwick Detainees Welfare Group befriend and support detainees at Tinsley house at Gatwick Airport.

The group raises awareness of the detainees’ plight and seeks to reduce discrimination by giving talks, writing articles and speaking on local radio; drawing on their first-hand experience of asylum seekers and their concerns.

Many of Detainees are young, cut off from family and friends and unfamiliar with the UK’s asylum procedures. The group offer advice reassure them about any worries they might have.

Chairperson Felicity Dick says she is very pleased about the award, “We help those who may feel lonely or afraid in an unfamiliar country by listening to their concerns and doing what we can to alleviate their fears.”

Contact: Mrs Felicity Dick
Phone: 01293 434 350  

The Gladiator Programme
Established for over eighteen years, the Gladiator Programme was developed to promote physical activity to children aged between eight and twelve. The programme not only helps create the sporting stars of the future, but also encourages young people to adopt a healthy lifestyle and boosts their confidence.

The programme is based at the Auchinlea Centre in Glasgow, where children can partake in a range of sports and activities at a reasonable cost. Sports leaders also travel to poorer neighbourhoods, where they offer the service for free in local halls. This has the added benefit of keeping young people off the streets and away from drugs and crime.

Since its creation the Gladiator Programme has produced a number of successful sports men and women. It has also boosted employment in the area, with many of its participants going on to become sports leaders for the programme.

Project co-ordinator Alex Richardson says he is thrilled that the programme has been recognised for its hard work, "We hope that being granted such a prestigious award will publicise the work we do, and increase the support we get from the local community and beyond."

Contact: Alex Richardson (project co-ordinator, The Gladiator Programme)
Phone: 0141 771 7600
Email: alex@richardson37.wanadoo.co.uk

Grantham and District Talking Newspaper Association
Established over twenty years ago, Grantham and District Talking Newspaper Association provides blind and partially sighted members of the community with a recording of the weekly news. Around 250 individuals benefit from this service which is provided free of charge.

Working in rotation, teams of volunteers come together on a Friday to record the latest edition of the Grantham Journal on a ninety-minute cassette. These reach the recipients by Saturday morning.

For many of the recipients, this service does more than provide information - it also offers a much needed link to the rest of the community.

Chairman Barrymore Bell says he is extremely pleased that the group has been given this award, "We are very grateful to have received recognition for our hard work but would also like to thank our supporters, without whose donations we could not exist."

Contact: Barrymore Bell (Chairman, Grantham and District Talking Newspaper Association)
Phone: 01476 403 633

Guernsey Women’s Refuge
The Guernsey Women's Refuge opened its doors on the 1st October 1998 to provide a secure, friendly environment where women can take 'time out' from domestic abuse to consider their future. The Refuge is staffed by volunteers and a small number of paid staff, 24 hours a day, every day, to offer advice, accommodation and crisis help.

The refuge has helped hundreds of women who have been suffering from domestic abuse. The family and home should be a place of safety from threats, intimidation, violence and abuse. The reality is that for some women their home has become a prison. Priority is given to ensuring the immediate safety of the woman and her dependants. When this has been achieved, our aim is to offer positive response and support & listen.

All those involved are sensitive to her fears and anxieties and will help to identify options open to her. If the woman decides to return to, or continue the relationship, the Refuge offers ongoing support. Domestic abuse affects many women of all ages. The Refuge has extended their expertise this year and has launched an 'Outreach Service' where our volunteers or staff meet with women away from the Refuge offering support. Excellent relationships are maintained with the professional agencies which enables women are given first class help in their individual situations.

Mary Lowe the Chairman says, "It is a great honour to receive this prestigious award on behalf of all those involved with the Guernsey Women's Refuge. We are all delighted that our service has been recognized within the community and now to receive this award from Her Majesty the Queen is an absolute delight to all of those involved who give of their time so tirelessly. We would like to publicly thank our nominator for kindly submitting the Women's Refuge for this Award."

Contact: Mary Lowe 01481 255 984

The Heart Of Kent Hospice Volunteers
Established for thirteen years, The Heart Of Kent Hospice Volunteers provide care and support for the terminally ill and their families.

Volunteers account for over eighty percent of the Hospice team, and provide therapy and counselling, liaise between medical staff and patients and look after the facilities. Another part of their service involves home visits.

The group raise funds to keep the Hospice running through a range of local events including coffee mornings, dinner dances and walks.

Volunteer Services Co-ordinator Howard Marsh says the group is honoured to receive this award, "Our volunteers work tirelessly to care for the physical and emotional needs of the terminally ill."

Contact: Howard Marsh (Volunteers Services Co-ordinator)
Phone: 01622 792 200

The Holly Lodge Centre
Established for ten years, the Holly Lodge Centre provides an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities, to enjoy and learn from the natural environment of Richmond Park and its wildlife history, heritage and management.

The centre specialises in activities for disabled people and children with an age range from 3-100. Activities are based around: bird trails, bird nest building, simple arts and crafts, nature trails, pond dipping, tree trails, wildlife feeding stations and holds a Victorian classroom to name a few.

60 volunteers help with group visits, administration for the centre and a broad range fundraising activities for various charities. Their skill base is large ranging from graphic design, photography, education, IT and banking. The volunteers also consult with a Park Users Forum for ideas to develop the work of the centre.

Holly Lodge is also affiliated with the Royal Parks and is seen by them as a Centre of Excellence in terms of activities for children and adults by providing disability training for their employees and other institutions.

Project Manager Dr. Pat Ealey was awarded "Woman in Community" accolade for the Kingston District in September 2003 and believes the Centre's team of volunteers provide an excellent service to their community.

"We perform at our own pace with a high level of expertise and provide a quality service to the disabled community. The centre also gives an opportunity for people to experience the heritage, history and wildlife in their local park. By winning the Queen's Award we hope to have our services recognised and attract more people to visit Holly Lodge."

Contact: Dr. Pat Ealey
Phone: 0208 948 3209 ext 236
Email: pealey@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk

Hookstone Chase Community Centre
Established in 1999, the Hookstone Chase Community Centre provides local people with a place to meet. It is used for a range of purposes including playgroups, senior citizens and local societies.

The building was once a derelict bungalow, and took four years work with £40,000 worth of funding to convert it.

Support from the community has proved invaluable both in financing the project and overseeing the centre's running and maintenance. The groups that use the centre also contribute to its survival.

Chairman and Booking Officer Debbie Thornton says she is extremely pleased about the award, "The centre has become very popular with the Hookstone residents and contributes to a feeling of community."

Contact: Debbie Thornton (Chairman and Booking Officer, Hookstone Chase Community Centre)
Phone: 01423 887738
Website: www.hookstone3c.org.uk

Huddersfield and District University of the Third Age
The 'Huddersfield and District University of the Third Age' is an informal environment, not an academic institution. The society brings together people who wish to maintain and improve the quality of later life by keeping fulfilled and active through mental, recreational and physical exercise.

Founded in 1984, in response to the expanding size of the elder generation, the 'University' provides a vibrant and growing community framework for people over the age of 50 years (and those who may be registered disabled).

With life expectancy and retirement patterns producing a growing population of the elder generation, an initiative such as the 'Huddersfield and District University of the Third age' is more important than ever with funding and volunteers an ever-present demand.

Philip Walton Chairman of Huddersfield and District University says:

"We are delighted. We are a big organisation with over 200 volunteers offering their services. We offer our service to quite a large proportion of the community. Our services are proven to be a continued success by winning this award."

Contact: Philip Walton
Phone: 01484 327573
Email: pat.philwalton@ntlworld.com

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