Sir Ian urges support for charities for Queen’s Award
LT-GOVERNOR Sir Ian Corder is encouraging islanders to vote for groups which they feel deserve to receive the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
The focus of this year’s Volunteers’ Week has been local charities which have received the award, which is the highest accolade that can be given to volunteer groups in Britain.
‘It recognises and promotes excellence in the voluntary sector, which is an area in which the Bailiwick does particularly well,’ said Sir Ian.
‘I would encourage islanders to nominate eligible local charities whose volunteers really stand out, and make a valuable contribution to our community.’
Sir Martyn Lewis, chairman of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service Awards committee, said the award defines a group as being ‘at least two people’, meaning that even the smallest group can be worth nominating if its achievements have made a difference by tackling a need in society.
‘Since the first of these awards in 2003, Guernsey has done well,’ he said. ‘In fact, out of all proportion to the size of its population, 24 charities have been so honoured – a testament to the great charitable spirit that runs like a golden thread through the island – as I saw for myself on a visit a few years ago.
‘I have no doubt there are many more groups of volunteers worthy of consideration for this prestigious award.’
Volunteering For All has been the slogan of this year’s Volunteers’ Week, which concludes today.
Events around Britain have promoted the opportunities available to everyone who would like to help their community.
