On 3 July 2018, the Westminster Community Awards were presented with a jubilant ceremony at Porchester Hall.

Organised by Westminster City Council and hosted by Jackie Rosenberg, Chief Executive of One Westminster, and Katrina Baker, Area Manager from Groundwork London, the evening was a celebration of Westminster volunteers and an opportunity to recognise their hard work and time given to helping projects across the City.

The Sir Simon Milton Award, which recognises someone for their outstanding contribution to the community working with older people and/or disadvantaged younger people, was presented to Olivia Bristol, a volunteer at Hestia support services.

At Hestia, Olivia works with some of the most vulnerable women and children in the City. She runs after-school sessions which offer the children an valuable opportunity to play, listen to stories, unwind after school and socialise with other children living in the refuge. Olivia has also set up a toy library in order for children to a toy after each session for them to enjoy playing with during the week. This has proved particularly popular, as many children arrive at the refuge with none or just a few toys so it helps to keep them entertained and also provides some comfort to them.

Our congratulations also go to Kayla Gregoire, who received a much deserved Highly Commended award for her work as a volunteer befriender at One Westminster Befriending Plus project. Kayla has made a huge impact with her work reducing her friend’s isolation and increasing her confidence and independence.

Julie Jones, Sir Simon Milton Foundation Trustee, who helped judge the awards said of both entries: “It is a good example of bringing the old and young together for mutual benefit, which is at the heart of what the Foundation are seeking to do in its work.”

More information about the Westminster Community Awards winners can be found here.