West Norfolk homelessness charity honoured with award from the King

The Purfleet Trust is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious 2024 King’s Award for Voluntary Service, a remarkable recognition of the dedication and hard work of its volunteers.

This accolade was announced to the team on Tuesday during a celebratory gathering where staff, volunteers, and trustees were delighted to learn of this significant achievement together.

The King’s Award, equivalent to the MBE, was established in 2002 and previously known as The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. It is celebrated annually on November 14, coinciding with King Charles’ birthday. This year, The Purfleet Trust is proud to be honoured for its exceptional efforts in supporting vulnerable individuals and those experiencing homelessness in King’s Lynn.

Purfleet trustees with replica King's Award trophies

Since its founding in 1993, The Purfleet Trust has been deeply grateful for the commitment of its volunteers. Last year marked an incredible 30 years of supporting individuals in West Norfolk. Over the years, the service has grown significantly, expanding from a couple of rooms on Purfleet Quay to now operating across three sites and providing support through six Pathway Training Houses. With a volunteer force of over 50 dedicated individuals, The Purfleet Trust continues to innovate and make a profound impact on the community through initiatives like the Purfleet Pantry. Opened in 2023 and primarily volunteer-operated, this social supermarket has already assisted more than 1,200 individuals facing hardship in King’s Lynn by providing access to affordable food, essential items, furniture, and access to the full range of support services on offer through the Trust.

King's Award replica trophy

Paula Hall, Chief Executive of The Purfleet Trust, expressed her gratitude, stating, “We are humbled and honoured to receive such a prestigious award. This recognition highlights the phenomenal commitment of our volunteers and supporters, not just over the past few years but throughout the 31-year history of The Purfleet Trust. Without their dedication, our vital work in King’s Lynn would not have been possible.”

In addition to the Purfleet Pantry, volunteers play a crucial role at The Purfleet Trust’s Health & Wellbeing Centre and Purfleet Pathways, their warehouse in the North Lynn Industrial Estate. Together, these projects provide essential support to over 600 individuals each year, offering housing advice, training and employability services, mental health support, and daily meals, clothing, and showers.

To celebrate this remarkable achievement, The Purfleet Trust is planning a special event in the new year for all volunteers and supporters. During this event, Lady Dannatt, the Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk, will present the award and the team will have a well-deserved chance to celebrate their achievements.

Purfleet volunteers

As the winter season approaches, The Purfleet Trust invites the community to support its ongoing efforts. Follow their social media pages for updates on the winter appeal and upcoming events. The Trust will also share news about the King’s Award on its social media channels, and any comments shared will contribute to a commemorative booklet honouring the volunteers' dedication.

For more information about The Purfleet Trust and how to get involved, please contact – kierangamble@purfleettrust.org.uk

For more updates from The Purfleet Trust, please search for The Purfleet Trust on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

https://www.facebook.com/purfleettrust/

https://www.instagram.com/purfleettrust/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-purfleet-trust/