Three fantastic Sandwell voluntary organisations have been awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS) for their work supporting our local community.
A huge congratulations to:
• Special Olympics Sandwell
• The Medical English Group
• Sikh Helpline
Equivalent to an MBE, the QAVS is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK.
Their well-deserved awards were presented by the Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Mr John Crabtree OBE.
Special Olympics Sandwell
Special Olympics Sandwell is a diverse group of 26 volunteers aged between 12 – 77 who share a passion to improve the health and well-being of local people of all ages affected by learning disabilities.
The team provides track and field, swimming, table tennis, golf and other activities that improve motor skills, self-esteem and create opportunities to develop friendships. Follow them on Facebook to find out more.
The Medical English Group
The Medical English Group aims to support immigrant, refugee and asylum-seeking health professionals, trained abroad, who are seeking to secure employment within the NHS. They offer expertise, interview role-playing and support for preparation with exams.
Their kindness and willingness to help others has been invaluable to the new NHS recruits who have had a smoother and more successful journey to securing employment.
Sikh Helpline
Sikh Helpline offers multi-lingual telephone, email and in-person advice and counselling to those suffering from abuse, mental health, substance addictions, marriage and relationship problems and other personal issues.
Over 70 volunteers help around 2,000 people each year.
The service, that started 25 years ago and is based in West Bromwich, is widely recognised for offering free and confidential advice and support. Follow them on Facebook or Twitter to find out more.
