Tamworth charity honoured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service

A Tamworth charity which provides a vital lifeline for people affected by cancer and other chronic conditions has been recognised for its exceptional work in the community with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Trustees, volunteers and the two members of staff at Tamworth Wellbeing and Cancer Support Centre (TWCSC) are over the moon at receiving the accolade, which is the highest honour that can be given to voluntary groups.

Approved by his Majesty the King, the award is often described as the MBE for voluntary organisations and is a way of acknowledging those who work tirelessly to improve and support their communities. Tamworth Wellbeing and Cancer Support Centre has helped thousands of people affected by cancer and other serious illnesses, and their families, for more than a decade, from a dedicated building in Stonydelph.

Reacting to the news, charity manager Paula Da Silva said: “Honestly I just can’t believe it. I’m absolutely thrilled for our volunteers. They work tirelessly to create a safe haven for people during incredibly difficult, and sometimes tragic, times in their lives to make sure no-one faces that alone. To have that effort recognised nationally means so much.

“This award validates everything we’ve tried to build here, which is a place of comfort, connection, and care. Anyone who walks through our doors will receive a warm and friendly welcome, a listening ear, and the help and support they need to get through.”

Practical and emotional support

Paula, together with an admin assistant, five trustees and a dedicated team of around 25 volunteers offer a range of practical and emotional support four days per week, including wig fittings, massage, yoga, foot health, knit and natter, craft sessions, singing, male and female support groups, coffee mornings and social events.

TWCSC relies mainly on donations from the public, along with support from celebrity ambassador, TV comedian Joe Lycett, who has won more than £50,000 for the charity over the years on celebrity versions of TV’s Tipping Point and Catchphrase gameshows.

Joe said: “I’m delighted that the centre has been recognised with this special award, which is much deserved and a testament to the incredible work done by Paula and the team. Although I expect this now means Paula will be wearing a crown and demanding I feed her grapes.”

‘A safe space to say as much or as little as you want’

Many of the trustees and volunteers are either former patients or their family members who have gone from receiving help to giving help.

Volunteer Sue Smith started visiting the centre in 2019 after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer. After receiving support through her treatment, she wanted to give back.

“I initially came because I wanted to talk to people who had either been there or understood,” Sue said. “I’ve got family, but sometimes you don’t want to burden them with your fears, so it was good to be able to have a weep and just say ‘I’m scared’.

“After I’d been a couple of times and visited a few craft sessions, it turned into a social event as well. I didn’t feel as lonely. I was comfortable to say as little or as much as I wanted in a safe space. It’s inclusive, no-one is ever left on the sidelines.”

‘When your partner is going through that, you have to stay strong’

Margaret Eaton first came with her husband Steve, who was given a terminal diagnosis after his prostate cancer spread. They would come together, and Margaret would also visit when Steve was in hospital having his chemotherapy. When Steve sadly passed away five years ago, Margaret kept on coming, and now volunteers her time to help others.

“Steve found real comfort here and it was beneficial to his mindset, just meeting other people and not feeling alone in the suffering,” Margaret said. “It has also helped me considerably, because when your partner is going through that, you have to stay strong for them, but here, you don’t have to keep that up.”

‘Always someone to talk to’

The volunteers are on hand to support dozens of people who come through the doors each week. These include Dan Garratt, who has been receiving treatment for prostate cancer for two years and visits the centre regularly with his wife, Linda.

He takes part in exercise and singing classes, and attends the monthly men’s support group. “I haven’t missed one yet. It’s made a real difference to me because you can always come and talk to someone, and get a good cup of tea,” Dan said.

About the King’s Award for Voluntary Service

The award to TWCSC was announced following a nomination from the community and then an assessment by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Lee Bates, who described it as among the best groups in the UK due to its ‘deep commitment to addressing the emotional, psychological, and practical needs of individuals facing serious illness in a uniquely compassionate and inclusive way’.

“The Tamworth Wellbeing and Cancer Support Centre is a genuine lifeline for our community, always offering a warm welcome despite dealing with challenging subject matter every day,” he said.

“The strength of their support lies in the volunteers’ own lived experiences, which shine through in everything they do. Well done to all – you truly deserve this recognition from His Majesty the King.”

The charity joins recent local recipients of the award including Heart of Tamworth, Tamworth Street Angels, HomeStart and Changes.

TWCSC will receive a special certificate, domed crystal award and an invitation for representatives to attend a Royal Garden Party.

Paula added: “Our aim has always been simple – to make sure everyone in Tamworth knows we’re here if they need us. This award shines a light on the power of volunteering and the difference ordinary people can make when they come together with kindness.”

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