Plymouth veterans win top award
Devon Community Foundation hosted its annual Volunteer of the Year Awards sponsored by Quilter Cheviot last week, honouring the hard work and achievements of the many volunteers making a real difference in our Devon communities.
Battling On were awarded the Sir Eric Dancer Thriving Communities Award for a local community group which most demonstrates the qualities of thriving communities, those that extend a helping hand to vulnerable people and make a real difference to their futures.
Battling On uses the skills and expertise of veterans to help turn young people’s lives around. Working with veterans who have been struggling to integrate back into society the group supports young people who have disengaged from education to build their confidence and develop their life skills.
Nikki said: “I cannot put into words how much this award means to us. We have been so fortunate to have had the support, help and guidance of Devon Community Foundation over the last few years. Thanks to them we have been able to develop, pilot and run unique programmes providing vital help to some of the county’s most vulnerable adults and young people.”
“We have been very privileged to see first-hand how these programmes change and improve people’s lives forever. The look on the volunteers and beneficiaries faces upon being shown this award was priceless and a memory I will cherish. Whilst they never seek recognition, I know this award means the world to them. Thank you for everything words are not enough.”
Martha Wilkinson, Chief Executive of Devon Community Foundation said: "Thriving Communities are places where people are accepted and supported to realise their potential. Battling On strives to bring people of all ages and walks of life together and helps to give people struggling to cope with daily life, the desire to build themselves and others a better future. Making the connection between veterans and young people, to the great benefit of both, is just genius!”
The nominated volunteers work with local groups to help and support others in their communities. Other winners included:
Rural Volunteer of the Year Award, sponsored by Mole Valley Farmers: Mary Nunn (Cheriton Fitzpaine Garden Club & Welcome Club)
Children & Young People Award, sponsored by Kitsons LLP: Charlie Aston (Youth Genesis)
Bringing People Together Award, sponsored by Cathedral Appointments: Irfaan Jhetam (Hikmat Devon)
Keeping People Safe & Well Year Award, sponsored by HSBC Devon: Liz Hitchins (Dementia Friendly Parishes Around the Yealm)
