Margate community volunteers are recognised with Mayor’s awards
The Mayor’s Community Awards were hosted by Margate mayor Rob Yates, and director of Resort Studios, Ayanna Bulale on Saturday 19th August. A community picnic in the Westbrook Sunken Gardens enabled the community to share in the success of friends, neighbours and colleagues who had been recognised for their commitment and dedication. Visitors enjoyed entertainment, a raffle with prizes from local authors, artists and restaurants, along with celebrating the achievements of grassroots community groups and individuals.
Mayor Rob said: “As Mayor of Margate, it gives me so much joy to be associated with the numerous community groups who are the heart of our Town.
“It has been my pleasure and privilege to personally thank these groups, a lot of whom work without the recognition they deserve.”
Almost 50 individuals and organisations received awards during the event, with everyone enjoying a community picnic in the sunshine, while being entertained by the Social Singing Choir.
Steven Turner – Pilgrims’ Ward Support Volunteer accepted the award on behalf of the Volunteer Team.
Pilgrims Hospices amazing ward support volunteers, received recognition for their dedication to the clinical team and patients in the hospices.
The Mayor personally thanked and presented handcrafted awards from Clayspace to the community groups across the seven wards of Margate, they all had an opportunity to speak about the important work they deliver day in day out.
The speakers from the organisations continually highlighted the kindness and talent within the community. The hard work of all the volunteers who dedicate their time to support organisations and charities, is highly valued and speakers agreed the community awards were a fine opportunity to say thank you.
Annie Hogben, Pilgrims Hospices Expert Volunteer Project Lead, spoke at the event, and shared her delight with all those present, acknowledging the importance of her volunteer team, and the value they add to the care that Pilgrims provide for the local community.
Steve Turner, Pilgrims Ward Support Volunteer with Health Care Assistant (HCA) Cathryn Weston attended the event. Steven accepted the award and thanked his fellow volunteers at the presentation.
Artist Tracey Emin and Margate councillors Jack Packman, Heather Keen, John Edwards, Leo Britcher and Elysa d’Abbro, county councillor Barry Lewis, Margate mayoress Iris Johnston and Ramsgate mayor Pat Moore were among the guests.
It’s heartening to learn that the Margate Community Awards event recognised individuals with awards. Acknowledging and honouring the efforts of these dedicated individuals and organisations can have a positive impact on the community, fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation.
Community events like this often serve as a platform to showcase the incredible work that often goes unnoticed in local neighbourhoods. By celebrating these grassroots efforts, the event helps inspire others to get involved and make a difference as well.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people who are facing a terminal diagnosis, and their families, by providing skilled and compassionate care and enabling them to live well in every moment. Your donation can help us to be there for the next family who need us.
6th September 2023
Hikers go the extra mile at the Folkestone Downs Challenge!
On Saturday 2nd September, over 400 brave hikers put their best foot forward to conquer the Folkestone Downs Challenge for Pilgrims Hospices.
The sun was shining as supporters tackled the challenging 36km course, taking them along some beautiful paths that showcased the spectacular scenery of Kent’s South coast. Starting from the Folkestone Harbour Arm, supporters climbed Kent’s famous white cliffs, and enjoyed breath-taking views over the English channel, Folkestone and Romney Marsh. Walkers even spotted some exotic animals as they passed by Port Lympne Safari Park, before making their way along the canal paths and promenade of Hythe to return to riotous applause at the Folkestone Harbour finish line.
We couldn’t be prouder of our brilliant supporters
Robert – Pilgrims
Almost 22,000 km were collectively hiked by Pilgrims supporters on the day; the equivalent of walking from London to Istanbul more than 4 times! The day was a huge success and early estimations are that more than £50,000 has been raised for local end-of-life care services, exceeding the charity’s anticipated fundraising target! The money raised will help Pilgrims Hospices to continue caring for thousands of patients each year, so that everyone living with a terminal illness can access the quality care, comfort and support they deserve, when and where they need it.
Max Sheppard, from Folkestone, completed the challenge and raised over £1,000 in memory of his father, Barry. He told us, “Dad passed away at Pilgrims Hospices in Ashford. Not only was the care for him at the hospice exceptional, the support for us as a family at the time was also incredible.
“Whilst Dad was only in the hospice for 6 days, Pilgrims Hospices provided a huge amount of support and guidance in the lead up to his admission. This assistance made a huge difference to Dad and us at a very difficult and stressful time.”
Not only was the care for him at the hospice exceptional, the support for us as a family at the time was also incredible
Max Sheppard
Robert Grew, Events and Digital Fundraising Manager said: “We couldn’t be prouder of our brilliant supporters who, quite literally, went the extra mile for Pilgrims on a very warm day. It was truly inspirational to see a community come together to support Pilgrims Hospices, and to celebrate and fundraise in memory of those they care so deeply about.
“We’ve already received fantastic feedback from our amazing participants, who have expressed their gratitude to our brilliant team. Our staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure that participants had plenty of support along the route and well-stocked refreshment stops, to keep spirits up throughout the day. We are so grateful to everyone involved who made the event such a huge success, and especially to our fantastic volunteers, we couldn’t do it without them!”
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This year alone, Pilgrims Hospices has to raise £11 million through voluntary donations and fundraising activities in order to run their full range of services. Sponsorship raised through events like this help the charity to continue caring for local people, and their families, as they near the end of their lives.
Each year Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
