The Queen has given her seal of approval to a Brighton charity which is dedicated to helping disabled people and the volunteers who give their time.
Possability People was recognised in a ceremony at the American Express Community Stadium in Brighton.
The Queen’s representative, the Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex Peter Field, presented the charity, its staff and volunteers with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service – equivalent to a group MBE.
Possability People chief executive Geraldine Des Moulin said: “Quite simply, Possability People couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers.
“They make us the great organisation that we are – and we are extremely grateful for their time, expertise and enthusiasm.
“Over 70 per cent of them identify as disabled themselves which of course means they bring a very useful perspective with them.
“We are delighted they have been honoured with this award.
“It is the UK’s highest acknowledgement any charity or community organisation can receive and it shows how much our volunteers are valued.”
Possability People is based in Kemp Town and works across Brighton and Hove and the wider Sussex area.
The charity, formerly known as the Fed Centre for Independent Living, works with disabled people, older people, younger people or anyone with an impairment or long-term health condition.
From helping people to find more support and help at home, or providing moral support and advice, its team has a range of knowledge and expertise. It believes in a society where anything is possible, regardless of ability.
Possability People has an extensive volunteer programme, which supports about 90 volunteers at any given time.
One volunteer, Maureen, said: “It was scary at first as a volunteer but now doing the work is a joy.
“Possability People have such faith in their volunteers, it has shown me how valued I am and knowing that is bringing my confidence back on track.”
For more information about volunteering at Possability People, contact Katharine Russell on 01273 894040 or email katharine@possabilitypeople.org.uk or go to www.possabilitypeople.org.uk.
