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14
Nov 2023
Harrogate district charity receives King's Award for Voluntary Services
A charity that supports visually impaired people across the Harrogate district has received the highest honour for voluntary groups in the UK.
Vision Support Harrogate District has been given the King’s Award for Voluntary Services, the equivalent of an MBE that recognises the country’s most inspiring volunteer-led groups.
Tanya Stimpson, the charity’s director of services, said everyone was “delighted and overwhelmed” to receive the award.
She said:
Vision Support Harrogate District offers practical services as well as emotional support, friendship and kindness to help visually impaired people live a full and independent life.
Among its long-serving volunteers is Ann Routledge, 85, who described the King’s Award as “wonderful news”.
She said:
Volunteer Jerry, third from left, with his bowling group members
Ripon volunteer John with retired volunteers Doreen, right, and Joan.
Vision Support Harrogate District helps people develop new skills and take part in a range of social and wellbeing activities, both at a drop-in centre in Harrogate as well as satellite meetings in Ripon and Pateley Bridge. It also offers a helpline, telephone befriending service and home visits.
Helen McGrath joined as a member when she lost her sight suddenly nine years ago at the age of 42. She now volunteers for the charity, using her experience to help others. She said:
Val Pilkington, 75, worked at the charity before becoming a full-time volunteer along with her husband Steven when she retired around ten years ago. She said:
Sculptures made by members of Vision Support Harrogate District will form part of an art exhibition at St Peter’s Church from November 21 to 26.
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