Banff Beulah Support and Outreach group presented with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service
A community support group has been presented with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Banff-based Beulah Support and Outreach was presented with the special crystal and certificate marking its success in gaining the accolade.
The presentation was performed by the Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire Andrew Simpson, supported by Deputy Lieutenant Valerie Cheyne. Also present was Councillor Judy Whyte, Provost of Aberdeenshire.
Receiving the award on behalf of the group were Jenny Lee BEM and Alan Lee. The presentation took place at Beulah’s regular coffee morning held in the hall of Banff’s St Andrew’s Episcopal Church.
The group provides outreach activities which engage with individuals who tend to be excluded or marginalised.
The volunteers run a weekly community café which is a safe and inclusive environment where all are welcome.
They also provide food support to augment and encourage healthy eating and lessen food waste along with several other supportive activities.
Beulah café acts as a mini community for individuals with issues and with none, but all are valued and encouraged to take part as they wish or are able.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest accolade a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to a MBE.
Only 281 charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups received this prestigious award in 2024.
Recipients were announced on November 14, The King’s birthday. The King’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities.
It was created in 2002 to celebrate The Queen’s Golden Jubilee. Following his accession, His Majesty The King announced his desire to continue the award.
Two volunteers from each group will attend the garden party at Holyroodhouse, along with other recipients of this year’s award.
Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire Andrew Simpson said: “Congratulations to everyone involved with Beulah Support and Outreach on achieving this award.
“For many years the volunteers have quietly been offering a warm and welcoming environment where people from across the area can meet and feel supported.
“The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is very well deserved recognition for the success of all that has been achieved.”
