On Wednesday 7 June, Volunteer Centre Sefton held their annual Volunteer Celebration Event to mark National Volunteers’ Week. Volunteers received certificates of thanks from The Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside, The Mayor of Sefton and Councillor Paul Cummins.

Additionally, nominations were received for Volunteer of the Year and Young Volunteer of the Year awards. The awards are a special recognition for volunteers in Sefton who have gone above and beyond their role and shown real dedication and commitment to the organisation they support. The young volunteer of the year award is open to those aged 25 and under.

The Winner of Volunteer of the Year 2023 was Andy King from Crisis Cafe and the winner of the Young Volunteer of the Year 2023, sponsored by Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa, was Freya White from Independence Initiative.

Andy King – Southport Crisis Cafe
Nominated by Sherran, manager of the Crisis Cafe

“Andy has very difficult physical health problems, he is registered disabled, and has his own mental health challenges on top of that. Despite this he has consistently volunteered every single week (despite a few times off sick) for 3 nights a week and has done so since we opened Southport in July 2021. And he still has a smile for those that need it.

We could not be more grateful to Andy, he is so valued amongst the team and the service users adore him too.

He has helped so many of our service users who are there to receive vital support because they are at Crisis point themselves. He says helping others helps him with his own recovery and well-being.

Last October Andy did a talk for Sefton In Mind about the correlation of having physical health and mental health problems; he got upset whilst speaking to a large crowd, but this wasn’t a sign of weakness, if anything it showed such tremendous strength, tenacity, determination and courage. He was applauded by all and people personally thanked him afterwards for being so open and honest. This led to a day at Radio City where Andy is now one of several voices on a new radio advert, soon to be released, promoting Sefton in Mind. So, thank you Andy for all your continued hard work, and we mean that from the bottom of our hearts. From Sherran and the Crisis Cafe Team”. 

Freya White – Independence Initiative
Nominated by Tracy, staff member at the Independence Initiative

“Freya came to our organisation after leaving school. She has continued to volunteer as well as attending college where she is doing a sport course and refereeing girls football during weekends and evenings. Freya is a good and positive role model to her peers.

She is inspirational to others.

She has always got a smile on her face offering a warm friendly welcome to any one who meets her. She is dependable and a self starter. Freya has has been successful gaining part time employment and still has time to volunteer. She is also raising money for our community pantry by running the 97 run with a staff member”.

Thank you to Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa for sponsoring the Young Volunteer of the Year Award.

Learn more about all the organisations and volunteers recognised at the event by visiting volunteeringsefton.org.uk/vol-celebration-meet-the-organisations/