Royal reward for Care in Crisis

Celebrating the 20th anniverary of Care in Crisis. Included are (front from left) John Beggs, chair of Trustees, Karen Moore, Director of Counselling and Craigavon Mayor Cllr Mark Baxter.

Lurgan-based Care in Crisis, which also celebrates its 21st anniversary this year, is one of almost 200 UK charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award in 2015. The award, announced at the beginning of Volunteers’ Week - which is held across the UK from 1-7 June - is recognition of the work of Care in Crisis, which provides a counselling service to the community.

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to local volunteer groups across the UK to recognise outstanding work in their communities. The awards were created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee, and winners are announced each year on 2 June - the anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation. Two of the charity’s Trustees attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace on May 20, where they met the Queen, as well as other award winners.

Care in Crisis has been offering a counselling service in Lurgan since 1994. The service began as a crisis pregnancy centre, and has developed over the years to be the professional, quality service it is today. Care in Crisis has an experienced team offering confidential counselling support to all in need, and from whatever background or community.

The team celebrated both the award and their anniversary during their team dinner at Edenmore Country Club this week, where volunteers received certificates of appreciation for their voluntary service.

Care in Crisis will receive the award from the Lord Lieutenant for Co Armagh later this Summer.