30 May 2024
Two people from Hamelin have been honoured by the High Sheriff of Essex, David Hurst, for their commitment and dedication to helping others.
Mr Hurst visited Hamelin’s centre in Billericay to present awards to Executive Assistant, Janet Smith, and Trustee, Simon Pitts.
They were recognised for going ‘above and beyond’ to enhance the charity’s work in supporting autistic adults and people with learning disabilities across Essex to live the life they choose.
Janet’s award nomination recognised her decade of service, over which time she has continued to be a dedicated advocate for the people the charity supports and their families. She was also praised for her innovative and creative nature which is helping to drive Hamelin’s strategy forward.
Simon has been a Trustee for five years, a voluntary role which involves governing the charity and directing how it is managed and run. He was commended for always leading by example by organising and taking part in fundraising and awareness events and his passion for always ‘beating the drum’ to campaign about important issues.
As well as presenting the awards, Mr Hurst also took the opportunity to have a look around the centre and meet some of the people the charity supports. He also spoke to staff about Hamelin’s ambitious plan to transform and reimagine care for a better future.
Hamelin Chief Executive, Ru Watkins, said it was a fantastic opportunity to commemorate the talent within Hamelin as well as showcase at how the charity is evolving to better meet the needs of the community.
He said: “We are privileged to have such a dedicated team at Hamelin Trust and it’s only right that people’s efforts are recognised, congratulations to Janet and Simon.
“Speaking to the High Sheriff about the work the charity does, the challenges the third sector is facing, and what we are doing to overcome these was a really important moment. By having these opportunities we can build our collaborative efforts, think outside the box, and develop innovative programmes to change care for the better.”