HealthBus Trust honoured and receives the King’s Award for Voluntary Service!

HealthBus Trust was awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This accolade, the highest a local voluntary group can receive in the UK, is equivalent to an MBE and recognises the significant impact of HealthBus volunteers and work in the community.

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell, hosted a special ceremony on 24 May 2024, at the Marsham Court Hotel to officially present the award to the HealthBus team. The charity’s representatives, Gail and Reg received a crystal award and a certificate, marking their exceptional contribution to voluntary service. This celebration follows an announcement made in November 2023 regarding the award.

Additionally, two volunteers from HealthBus Trust had the honour of attending a garden party at Buckingham Palace on 8 May 2024, along with other recipients of this year’s King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Christopher Wakefield, Chairman of HealthBus Trust, expressed his delight at the recognition: “What an honour it is to be recognised in this way! I am delighted that the contribution we are making to individual lives and the wider community is acknowledged in such a distinguished way.”

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell, stated “Its a pleasure and honour to be involved and to acknowledge the outstanding work that the HealthBus has done and continues to do for some of those marginalised on our community. I deeply believe in their cause and applaud their determination and resilience as they continue to save lives!”

HealthBus Trust is renowned for its comprehensive approach to healthcare, partnering with both clinical and non-clinical teams to offer services that improve physical and mental health, aid in addiction recovery, and support individuals in moving beyond homelessness. By reducing the demand for NHS secondary care and collaborating with hospital teams, the charity addresses the ‘revolving door’ syndrome, where individuals frequently cycle through hospitals and A&E departments.

This year, HealthBus Trust is one of 262 charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups to be honoured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. Their dedication and hard work, along with that of their fellow awardees across the UK, highlight the profound impact of volunteers in enhancing community life and supporting those in need.