Menphys volunteers recognised by High Sheriff for ‘dedication and commitment’

• High Sheriff Awards presented to three volunteers
• King’s representative visited charity, which supports children with disabilities
• Awards are further recognition for work of Wigston-based non-profit

Three charity volunteers have been presented with High Sheriff Awards, recognising their dedication in helping children and young people with disabilities.

The High Sheriff of Leicestershire, Mrs Henrietta Chubb JP, visited Menphys at its Wigston hub to present awards to Chair Ian Knight and volunteers Fiona Kirk and Marie O’Rourke.

During the visit, the High Sheriff learned about the award-winning charity’s work supporting children with disabilities and their families across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.

High Sheriffs are appointed to represent His Majesty the King in each county. They can give awards in recognition of the work of individuals or community groups.

The awards are a way of recognising and celebrating the work of individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the communities in which they live or work.

Chief Executive Ian Caldwell said: “Ian, Fiona and Marie are all deserving of the recognition that comes with such a prestigious award.

“Their dedication and commitment is crucial in helping us as a charity support our children and their families.

“We were delighted to welcome the High Sheriff and to mark this special occasion together.”

Fiona has been volunteering with Menphys for just over a year and has already had a huge impact.

Her nomination states: “During Fiona’s time volunteering for Menphys she has gone above and beyond in her role. No job is too much to ask, and it is always greeted with great enthusiasm and passion.”

Upon receiving her award, Fiona said: “Everyday volunteering here is an absolute pleasure.
It’s an honour to receive this award and to feel so appreciated.”

Marie began volunteering for Menphys two years ago and spends five days a week across its donation centres, charity shops, and coffee shops – as well as running inductions for all new volunteers.

Her nomination reads: “Marie is a very selfless person who always has a smile on her face, she is willing to contribute to the charity in any way she can.”

Marie said: “I had a lovely afternoon spent with the Menphys team, and it was such an honour to meet the High Sheriff.

“I’m so proud to have been given this award.”

Ian Knight has been an active member of the Menphys Board for nearly 20 years, both as a board member and Chair, providing leadership and guidance to the board and officers.

His nomination reads: “Ian is passionate about, and committed to, his community. He gives a considerable amount of time freely, willingly, and generously.

Ian said: “ I was surprised and honoured to receive the award from the High Sheriff. I have greatly enjoyed working with fellow volunteers and Menphys staff over more than twenty years for the benefit of the children and young people the charity supports.

“It has been particularly rewarding to see the growth of the number of families receiving our assistance in recent years.”

The awards are the latest to be added to Menphys achievements.

The charity, which received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2021, was last year named Small Business of the Year at East Midlands Chamber’s Leicestershire Business Awards.

Menphys also won the Outstanding Contribution Award at the LeicestershireLive Business Awards 2023.

● Are you interested in volunteering with Menphys? We have a wide range of roles for volunteers. Contact info@menphys.org.uk or call 01455 323 020 to learn more.