King sends message of thanks to Merseyside volunteers

The King has sent his “warmest good wishes and thanks” to volunteers who provide emotional support to people in distress. 

His Majesty’s representative in Merseyside, Lord-Lieutenant Mark Blundell, passed on the message as he handed over an award on behalf of the monarch to Samaritans Liverpool and Merseyside. 

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) recognises the Clarence Street branch’s vital work in supporting the community over the past 65 years. 

Mr Blundell, who attended a special service at the Liver Building, said:

“The award has been shining a light on the fantastic work of voluntary groups from all across the UK for many years.  

“Equivalent to an MBE, the King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK and they are awarded for life. 

“The KAVS is awarded for outstanding achievement by groups of volunteers. And groups truly do need to be outstanding to receive a KAVS.  

“Samaritans Liverpool and Merseyside is one of 16 voluntary organisations in Merseyside to receive The King’s Award for Voluntary Service this year. 

“Their work, along with others from across the UK, reminds us of all the ways tremendous volunteers are contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them. “

The award was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and was previously known as the QAVS.

Receiving the honour on behalf of the Samaritans branch, which began life at Liverpool Parish Church on 1 March 1960, was director Helen Gilbert.

She said:

“A lot of things have changed in the past 65 years. Attitudes towards mental health and suicide have certainly changed. To think that suicide was still a crime in 1960, so that anyone in that desperate situation who attempted to end their own life, if they survived, could be arrested and thrown in prison. Luckily we have moved on as a society. Technology has changed, Samaritans as an organisation has changed, but our key principles of listening without judgement and with empathy, being there for someone, remains the same. 

“I’m delighted and proud to accept the King’s Award for Voluntary Service on behalf of Liverpool and Merseyside Samaritans. I’m accepting it on behalf of all of our volunteers past and present and the amazing work we have done supporting people in our community for the last 65 years.”

Samaritans can be contacted at any time on the free helpline number 116 123 or via email at jo@samaritans.org.

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