SIX charities across East Sussex have been recognised for their work by receiving the coveted King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS).
They are amongst an elite group revealed nationally today, the King’s birthday, as this year’s recipients of the KAVS.
This award is the highest accolade a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.
They are among 281 local charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups from across the UK to receive the prestigious award.
Those in East Sussex who impressed the national assessment panel include Sanctuary in Eastbourne, which welcomes people seeking refuge, offering them a safe space for community, connection and counsel, along with a group providing a safe place for men struggling with emotional and mental challenges.
The Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve (RHNR) have also been honoured for supporting and developing the area and its wildlife.
Mankind, a charity which provides a safe place for men struggling with emotional and mental challenges, has also been recognised in the King’s Honours.
A group which provides accessible community volunteer drivers, Havens Community Cars, will also receive the Crystal Award and certificate from Andrew Blackman, Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex.
Stephanie Byrne, Trustee of Havens Community Cars said: “This recognition expresses the gratitude we feel every day for our dedicated and committed team of wonderful volunteer drivers who make a life-changing difference in the lives of so many local residents.”
The last two charities highlighted in the Awards are: Rotherfield St Martin which provides a comprehensive support network for the community in Rotherfield, and, Time to Talk Befriending, which supports older people, responding to their needs and overcoming loneliness in meaningful ways.
The KAVS aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and following his accession, His Majesty The King emphasised his desire to continue the Award.
Recipients are announced annually on the King’s birthday.
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex, Mr Andrew Blackman, said of the announcement: “We are incredibly proud of all the volunteer groups who have been awarded the highly sought after King’s Award for Voluntary Service. Even being nominated is testament to the hard work and dedication of all the volunteers who work tirelessly in service of their communities.
“For them to have been recognised in this way is a reflection of the rich tapestry of charities within East Sussex who give their all to care for others.”
The six charities will each receive a commemorative piece of award crystal and a certificate presented by HM Lord-Lieutenant at ceremonies to be planned over the coming months.
