SoundCafe Leicester has been granted the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.
As a small charity providing safe creative spaces for those who are homeless, isolated and vulnerably housed in the city, volunteers are at the very heart of the services they deliver.
SoundCafe recently celebrated 10 years as a charity and says it would not be here today without its volunteers, supporters and partner organisations, including Leicester Samaritans and Leicestershire Cares.
Post pandemic, the charity moved its services to St Mary de Castro Church in the cultural quarter of the city, which has become its new home, reflecting the roots of the charity within local parish churches and the diocese.
Bishop Martyn, Patron of SoundCafe, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to hear this news of the Kings Award for Voluntary Service for SoundCafe Leicester.
“The people I meet and the stories I hear on the occasions when I visit are always an inspiration and this is a testament to the vital service SoundCafe offer to some of the most vulnerable people in our society and celebrates the dedication and commitment of the volunteers who selflessly make it all happen on a regular basis.
“My heartfelt congratulations to all who have contributed to this prestigious award.”
As a charity, SCL provides weekly safe creative spaces, including singing with SoundCafe choir, health and well-being with monthly SoundCafe Foxes football sessions, and a café incorporating arts, crafts and creative writing.
SoundCafe Leicester is one of 281 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year. Their work, along with others from across the UK, reminds us of all the ways fantastic volunteers are contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them.
Rachel Griffiths, Director of SoundCafe, said: “I am delighted that the work of our volunteers has been recognised. As a small charity, we are only still here and able to offer support to our guests as a result of the determination and commitment of our volunteer team – they are amazing!
“Our volunteers enable our guests to realise their potential and find a voice, inspiring us all about what is possible when we come together.”
For more information on SoundCafe and how you can support their work, visit their website.