Volunteers and staff from Citizens Advice South Hams have finally got together to celebrate the award they received in June last year. The gathering was delayed as a result of the pandemic.

Volunteers from the local charity were presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon, at their end of summer gathering. The charity was given the award last year but has only just been able to receive it due to Covid restrictions.

The Queen’s Award celebrates the amazing made by those volunteering within their local community. Equivalent to an MBE, it is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK.

Citizens Advice South Hams has 64 volunteers who generously give up their time to help others. Offering advice and support on issues such as debt, housing, employment and more, they help around 5,000 people each year.

Janie Moor, Chief Officer of Citizens Advice South Hams says: “Our volunteers really are the lifeblood of our charity. They bring so much empathy, patience and a real desire to help the people of their community - we quite simply wouldn’t exist without them. This award recognises all of their hard work and shows just how much they are appreciated.”

She added: “We are always looking for new volunteers to join our team, so if you’re interested in learning some new skills and helping people to find a way forward with their problems then please do get in touch.”

More information about volunteering with Citizens Advice South Hams can be found on their website www.southhamscab.org.uk. If you need advice call them 0808 278 7948 or video call them using the link on the website.