Leicestershire groups receive King’s Award for Voluntary Service

The award holds the same value as an MBE.

Four voluntary groups in Leicestershire have been honoured with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service,

This is the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK.

All of the groups were nominated by the public.

The winning recipients will each be visited by the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mr Mike Kapur OBE CStJ, who will hold individual ceremonies to present them with their King’s Award.

This year’s recipients are:
Asfordby Amateurs Ladies, Girls and Inclusive Football Club, based in Melton. The club provides a welcoming and safe environment for all abilities and ages to develop their skills.

Bright Hope in North West Leicestershire, based in Swannington. The charity is committed to serving the community by providing a range of free and accessible support including: adult social care, counselling, wellbeing support services, and a community café in a purpose-built day centre. Bright Hope provide opportunities for beneficiaries to create friendships and take part in social and creative activities.

Heather Scarecrow Festival is a week-long annual scarecrow festival. The festival is open to residents, businesses, and schools in Heather to raise funds to support local groups that serve the village. The festival provides creative activities, social cohesion, and financial support to the local community.

Shama Women’s Centre, an organisation based in Leicester, have been recognised for the work they do in supporting women to gain independence through education, training, counselling, and peer support. They provide opportunities for women from all backgrounds to create friendships, develop new skills, and find employment.