Community and volunteer-led groups across East Lancashire are invited to a workshop on the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, taking place on Wednesday, 26th June at 2:30 PM at Accrington Stanley’s 1968 Lounge.
The King’s Award is the UK’s highest honour for volunteer groups, recognising exceptional contributions to community life. Local groups attending the event will learn how to apply, understand the award’s criteria, and hear about the benefits it can bring — from national recognition to enhanced credibility and increased funding success.
Tony Grimshaw OBE encouraged local groups to get involved:
“This is a wonderful opportunity for our local volunteer groups to be recognised at the very highest level. The King’s Award shines a light on the incredible work being done every day in our communities — often quietly, and without expectation of thanks. I urge every eligible group to come along, learn more, and consider putting themselves forward.”
The event will also showcase advice sessions from Helen Bingley OBE JP DL, who spent an exceptionally busy year as High Sheriff of Lancashire last year. Through her own charity, The Abaseen Foundation, she is a holder of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, and can talk through how the process of application works. Peter Leatham of the Official Stanley Supporters Trust will speak on how winning the awards has benefitted the organisation; and Tony Grimshaw OBE, will give more detail on the Duchy of Lancaster fund for good causes and how to apply for it.
Peter Leatham, Chair of the Official Accrington Stanley Supporters Trust (OASST), shared how winning the award has made a difference:
“Receiving the King’s Award has been a huge boost for the OASST. It’s raised our profile and even opened doors to new funding opportunities. Most of all, it’s given everyone involved a real sense of pride and encouragement to keep making a difference.
“Being invited to the Buckingham Palace Garden Party was such a wonderful experience, and something we’ll never forget!”
Any group that has been running for over three years, is led by volunteers, and provides a clear benefit to the community may be eligible, so it is well worth attending to then apply and bring recognition to East Lancashire for all the excellent community work.
Event Details: 1968 Lounge, Accrington Stanley FC Wednesday, 26th June 2024 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
To reserve a free place, book onto Eventbrite: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-kings-award-for-voluntary-service-kavs-workshop-tickets-1376053967459
For more information about the award, visit: kavs.dcms.gov.uk
