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Age UK Westminster Celebrates Exceptional Volunteers at 2024 Awards Ceremony

Ian Adams at podium

Published on 08 July 2024 02:12 PM

We recently hosted our annual Volunteer Awards Ceremony, recognising the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations dedicated to improving the lives of older people in the community. The event, attended by 68 guests including Age UK Westminster staff and Honorary Alderman Ian Adams MBE representing Westminster City Council, honoured 22 volunteers across six award categories.

The ceremony highlighted the following award categories:

  1. Make A Difference Award: Recognising volunteers in Befriending, Information & Advice, Office Admin Support, Dementia Service, Fit4Life, and Digital Inclusion programs.
  2. Older Volunteering Award: Honouring volunteers aged 65 and over who demonstrate that age is no barrier to making a positive impact.
  3. Long Service Award: Celebrating volunteers who have shown dedication for four years or more.
  4. Fundraising Award: Acknowledging efforts in raising vital funds for Age UK Westminster services (awarded privately).
  5. Corporate Volunteering Award: Presented to GIC Singapore for their exceptional partnership and support.
  6. Volunteer of the Year Award: Awarded to Stefania Claudia Petcu for her extraordinary commitment and impact.

GIC received the Corporate Volunteering Award for their multifaceted support since 2018. Their contributions include packing Christmas hampers, providing Christmas lunches at the Beethoven Centre and their offices for our clients, donating funds for the Digital Inclusion project, and providing volunteer support.

Stefania Claudia Petcu, named Volunteer of the Year 2024, has made a remarkable impact in just 18 months of service. She has formed a strong bond with her client and continues to support us through event participation, involvement in organisational assessments, and regular donations.

The Make a Difference Award, presented to the majority of volunteers, underscored the wide-ranging impact of Age UK Westminster's volunteer programs in combating social isolation and enhancing the well-being of older residents in Westminster.

Mehfuz Ahmed, Age UK Westminster CEO said:

"Our volunteers are the heartbeat of Age UK Westminster. Their dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts make an immeasurable difference in the lives of older people across our community. From providing companionship to offering digital support, each volunteer plays a crucial role in combating loneliness and enhancing the well-being of our clients.

The impact of their work extends far beyond the hours they give – it transforms lives, builds lasting friendships, and creates a more inclusive society for our older residents. We are profoundly grateful for their commitment and are continually inspired by their selfless service. These awards are just a small token of our appreciation for the enormous contribution our volunteers make every single day."

We extends our heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers and corporate partners whose dedication and compassion are instrumental in supporting older people in the community. Their efforts in various capacities, from befriending to digital support, play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for Westminster's older residents.

For more information about Age UK Westminster and volunteer opportunities, please visit www.ageukwestminster.org.uk or call 020 3004 5610.