The Queen's Golden Jubilee Award

Last year the Queen, in celebration of her Golden Jubilee, announced an annual Award to recognise excellence in voluntary activities by groups in the community. The Award recognises the vital role played by the hundreds of thousands of 'unsung heroes' in the voluntary and community world and emphasises the importance of continuing recognition of their work. The Award covers the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man and is made to groups rather than individuals.

Government Offices play a vital role in the selection process. Once groups have been nominated the details are sent to Government Offices who carry out verification checks, along with the local Lord Lieutenant. Regional Director Liz Meek also chairs the London Selection Panel, which recommends a shortlist of nominations to the national Golden Jubilee Award Committee, who then make their recommendation to the Queen. Winning groups receive a certificate signed by The Queen and a commemorative piece of crystal for display at the group's main place of operation.

1400 nominations were received nationwide for the Award and the first 200 winners were announced on the anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation on 2 June 2003. 167 nominations were received in London and 20 groups were successful. The organisations cover a wide range of activity reflecting the diverse nature of the city itself, including those working with specific ethnic minorities, nightshelters for the homeless and groups working with young people. One organisation from each region had the honour of being presented with their Award by the Queen at a Garden Party. The Neutral Ground Child Contact Centre, a support centre in Abbey Wood where children of separated families can meet their estranged parents, represented London.

More Information

More information on the awards and all the successful groups can be found at http://www.goldenjubileeaward.gov.uk.