PR 1924
COUNTY COUNCIL REWARDS GOOD NEIGHBOURS
Hampshire County Council paid tribute to the achievements of volunteers across the county last night (15 March) at its Good Neighbour Awards reception.
The Good Neighbour Award scheme has been developed by the County Council in partnership with the Hampshire Voluntary Care Group Advisory Service to recognise the invaluable contribution volunteers make to helping older people live comfortably and safely.
The awards reception was hosted by the Leader of the County Council, Councillor Ken Thornber, who thanked all the volunteers for giving up their time to help older people within their communities. Awards were given to both individuals and volunteer groups, and the 40 winners were given a scroll and gifts in recognition of their hardwork and dedication.
Councillor Thornber said; "I think it's wonderful that people in our communities give up their own time to help others, and I give them my heartfelt thanks for helping to improve the lives of our elderly residents.
"We introduced the good neighbour award scheme as part of the work being carried out under the cabinet priority for older people. It aims to publicly acknowledge the work that volunteers carry out everyday to help make older people's lives easier. It is particularly fitting that we should introduce this award in the year of the volunteer."
Councillor Sue Glasspool, the County Council's Older Person's Champion, and on of the judging panel for the awards added: "Across the county there are many volunteers providing support to older people and helping them to retain their independence. It can often be the little things that make a big difference to an older person's life, such as collecting their prescription for them, helping them fill in forms or helping them get to the shops.
The awards reception was held at the Great Hall, Winchester. Around 200 people attended to recognise the achievements of volunteers across Hampshire.
ENDS
Notes for Editors
Photo: attached is a photo of Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor
Ken Thornber (2nd row far left) and Jackie Paterson of the Hampshire Voluntary Care Group Advisory Service (botton left, green necklace)with some of the award winning volunteers.
The Good Neighbour Award scheme had three categories:
· volunteers who provide a direct service to an older person
· volunteer co-ordinators who organise the work of others in providing a service to older people
· groups of volunteers who provide added value to their local community and which has a direct benefit to older people
For media enquiries please contact: Kirsty Gunner on 01962 847110
16/03/2005