The dedication and kindness of special volunteers from across the city was celebrated at the Portsmouth Inspiring Volunteer Awards.
The annual awards ceremony recognises the incredible contribution of those who give up their time to make the city a better place, expecting nothing in return.
More than 300 people attended the ceremony on Tuesday 30 September at Kings Theatre Portsmouth, which was organised by Together in Hive Portsmouth and Pompey in the Community.
Lindsey Piasco, described as “a huge source of inspiration for so many people” was named as Volunteer of the Year thanks to her dedication to The Elizabeth Foundation and for setting up her own charity, the Saturday Kids Zone for Deaf Children.
The Young Volunteer of the Year Award went to Roxy Derry, who has been with Stamshaw Adventure Playground since she was a young child and has grown into an: “outstanding young person of character, despite the many external pressures to choose other paths”. Her nomination praised her: “enthusiasm to do good, which makes he an invaluable asset and incredible role model to others”.
The Community Inclusion Individual Award was won by Sophie Meechan, who has been volunteer chef at Loves of Love since its inception over four years ago, while Spark Community won the Team Award. Their volunteers were praised for incredible work supporting isolated individuals: “these volunteers didn’t let their struggles define them, they’ve smashed through those barriers and are making a huge impact”.
Angie Needle picked up the Health & Wellbeing Individual Award for her volunteering at Spa61, which offers a haven of care and support for women in Portsmouth who are in need. The 26 volunteers who make up Wellbeing Walks Portsmouth, offering walks seven days a week to help people get back into their community, picked up the Team Award in the same category.
The Trustee & Committee Award, which celebrates those who’ve demonstrated excellent leadership skills and supported organisations to change, grow and develop, was won by Geoffrey Wilson, from Friends Without Borders, where he’s volunteered since 2017.
The Cross Cultural Women’s Group was awarded the Arts, Culture & Heritage Award, which celebrates those who give up their time to support culture and diversity within the city. The group allows women to learn new skills, engage in new activities they might not otherwise have access to, and make meaningful connections.
Praised for “bringing and fresh, energised approach to what had become a tired list of ideas”, Shelley Usher picked up the Education & Wellbeing Award for the time she spends volunteering at Butterflies Bereavement Support, while Veterans Outreach Support picked up the Team Award in the same category.
Michelle Tennant, who co-founded Helping Hands, picked up the Community Individual Award for her support of the homeless. “She is there every single week, regardless of the weather, and never asks for any thanks or recognition. She just does it because she passionately believes in helping people that are struggling” her nomination said.
Friends of Southsea Rock Garden were handed the Community Team Award thanks to their work breathing new life into a historic garden.
Chief Officer of HIVE Portsmouth Lorna Reavley said: “These awards remind us that Portsmouth thrives because of its people. Through everyday acts of care, volunteers
make our communities stronger, more compassionate, and more united. It is a privilege to be able to honour their selflessness and dedication.”The awards are supported by a number of local businesses and organisations including Comserv, Irwin Mitchell Solicitors, Liquid Friday, BioBubble Technologies and Portsmouth City Council.
Kings Theatre Portsmouth kindly donated the use of the venue for the night.