Leaders and volunteers of local charity, Compassionate Kenilworth, gathered at The Kenilworth Centre on Friday 17 April to receive The King's Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award given to local volunteering groups in the UK. 

The charity, which supports local people experiencing loneliness, bereavements, and other hardships was joined at the event by local dignitaries.

Tim Cox, Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire (His Majesty's Representative) presented the award at the ceremony, which was also attended by Pal Sanghera Vice Lord Lieutenant, Jill Samuda, Deputy Lieutenant, High Sheriff Susan Rasmussen, the Chair of Warwickshire County Council Dale Keeling and the Mayor of Kenilworth, Cllr James Kennedy. 

Borne out of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, where large numbers of vulnerable Kenilworth residents were forced into isolation, Compassionate Kenilworth has striven to reduce loneliness in the town, creating a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.  

One of the charity's beneficiaries shared their experience with Compassionate Kenilworth: "I walked in completely alone, and within minutes felt welcomed, seen, heard and supported. Now I have friends, confidence and hope again."  

By offering free-to-access opportunities for social engagement, creativity, learning and support, they have helped improve residents' well-being and bring people together, forming valuable social connections and support. Run by a dedicated group of around 40 local volunteers, they have tackled the social isolation and loneliness witnessed in the years subsequent to the pandemic, improving health outcomes, and making Kenilworth a happier place to live. 

Volunteers of the charity gathered together to celebrate being presented the award

Tim Cox, Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire, said: "It was a great honour to present The King's Award for Voluntary Service to Compassionate Kenilworth.

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"This recognition reflects the extraordinary commitment of its volunteers, whose work has strengthened the fabric of the local community and provided vital support to those facing loneliness and hardship. They truly embody the spirit of service that this award represents." 

Pauline Hayward, founder of Compassionate Kenilworth, said: "We are deeply honoured to receive The King's Award. This recognition belongs to every volunteer, partner, funder and resident who has helped to make our community more connected and supported. 

"For vulnerable people in Kenilworth, human connection can be a lifeline, and we're dedicated to ensuring not a single soul in the community feels alone."  

The list of charities receiving The King's Award for Voluntary Service for 2025 numbers just 231 nationwide and being awarded one is equivalent to receiving an MBE.