We have been awarded…..The Kings Award for Voluntary Service

SoundCafe Leicester is delighted to announce that they have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.

As a small charity providing safe creative spaces for those who are homeless, isolated and vulnerably housed in the city, volunteers are at the very heart of the services delivered. SoundCafe has just celebrated 10 years as a charity and would not be here today without its’ volunteers, supporters and partner organisations, including Leicester Samaritans and Leicestershire Cares.

Post pandemic, SoundCafe moved its services to St Mary de Castro Church in the cultural quarter of the city and this is the new home for the Charity.

Bishop Martyn, Patron of SoundCafe said,

‘I am absolutely thrilled to hear this news of the Kings Award for Voluntary Service for SoundCafe Leicester.

The people I meet and the stories I hear on the occasions when I visit are always an inspiration and this is a testament to the vital service SoundCafe offer to some of the most vulnerable people in our society and celebrates the dedication and commitment of the volunteers who selflessly make it all happen on a regular basis.

My heartfelt congratulations to all who have contributed to this prestigious award’.

As a charity SCL provides weekly safe creative spaces: singing with SoundCafe choir; health and well-being with monthly SoundCafe Foxes football fun play sessions; and a café incorporating arts, crafts and creative writing.

SoundCafe is one of 281 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year. Their work, along with others from across the UK, reminds us of all the ways fantastic volunteers are contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them.

Rachel Griffiths, Director said, ‘ I am delighted that the work of our volunteers has been recognised. As a small charity we are only still here and able to offer support to our guests as a result of the determination and commitment of our volunteer team – they are amazing. Our volunteers enable our guests to realise their potential and find a voice, inspiring us all about what is possible when we come together.”