Cornish charities receive highest award for voluntary service
DISC Newquay and Pegasus - Men’s Wellbeing Centre have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service
Last updated 14th Nov 2023
Two Cornish charities have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
DISC Newquay and Pegasus - Men’s Wellbeing Centre have received the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK, equivalent to an MBE.
The awards have been announced today (14 November), The King’s Birthday
DISC Newquay helps over 3,000 people in Newquay and the surrounding area by supplying and distributing fresh, homecooked meals.
Led by volunteers, the Drop in and Share Centre or DISC tackles some of the many issues affecting those living in one of the most deprived areas of Cornwall.
32 active volunteers make sure the DISC centre opens every day of the year in a building which is a part of a hotel in Newquay.
Pegasus - Men’s Wellbeing Centre provides a unique and expert counselling service from its base in Redruth to help men overcome life’s challenges, build resilience, and achieve emotional wellbeing.
70 volunteer qualified and in-training trauma counsellors provide a safe and supportive space dedicated to providing tailored and effective mental health services that empower men to thrive in all aspects of their lives.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service recognises 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.
Commenting on these newest awards, Colonel Edward Bolitho OBE, Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall says: "I am really delighted to be able to congratulate these two charities on winning The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
"In different ways they are both doing brilliant work in giving support to people at really difficult times in their lives and they do so with great compassion, understanding and energy.
"They are fine examples of Cornwall’s community spirit, compassion and desire to help and I hope will inspire others."
Beata Webb founder and CEO of Pegasus - Men's Wellbeing Centre adds: "I am overwhelmed with pride and gratitude as we celebrate the tremendous honour of receiving the esteemed King's Award for Voluntary Service.
"This recognition holds a deeply personal and profound meaning for me, as it represents the culmination of a vision, the dedication of countless individuals, and the transformative impact we have made within our community.
"This award holds immense significance for Pegasus. It serves as a resounding validation of our tireless efforts to create real change and transform lives for the better. To the Pegasus' volunteers, this award represents the culmination of their boundless enthusiasm, unwavering commitment, and countless hours of selfless service.
"This prestigious accolade not only recognizes our organisation's commitment to fostering a spirit of compassion and unity, but it also highlights the exceptional contributions made by each and every volunteer who dedicates their time, skills, and passion to our cause."
Monique Collins, Manager of DISC, explains her reaction to the announcement: "Receiving this award is absolutely amazing. It was mind-blowing when I got the email. I am so proud that DISC has received this prestigious award and we are all over the moon. It’s incredible to think our group has been awarded the voluntary group equivalent to an MBE.
"The volunteers at DISC work tirelessly to help others. The team we have at the moment is like family. Everyone knows their role and what needs to be done and it runs like clockwork. Although it is very hard work, we really enjoy helping our local community and we have lots of fun along the way. I call them my dream team!"
Representatives of DISC and Pegasus will receive the award crystal and certificate from Colonel Bolitho over the next few months.
In addition, two volunteers from each group will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace next year, along with other recipients of this year’s Award.