Hampshire public servants and volunteers were honoured at the High Sheriff of Hampshire Community Awards on Thursday 6 March.

The High Sheriff of Hampshire, Jon Whitaker, presented awards to the 17 recipients in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the community, particularly in law and order and fostering community cohesion, especially among young people across Hampshire.  

High Sheriff, Jon Whitaker said: “I am truly honoured to celebrate the incredible individuals who go above and beyond to make Hampshire a safer and more supportive place to live. The Community Awards recognise volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to strengthening our criminal justice system and improving lives across our county. Throughout my time as High Sheriff, I have met so many inspiring people who quietly pour so much effort into creating positive change in their communities. I was so pleased to be able to reward so much work being done with young people who we really want to keep out of the criminal justice system. These awards are an opportunity to shine a light on their kindness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to helping others.”

The High Sheriff Awards are a mark of distinction and recognition given to Hampshire-based volunteers, groups and public servants making a significant contribution to society through enhancing safety and cohesion in our communities.  This year, the High Sheriff had a particular focus on initiatives aimed at helping young people stay out of the criminal justice system.

Among the individuals and projects receiving awards include Bishop’s Green Community Association’s Megan Winfield. She said: “I get to witness, first-hand, the progress that has been made within the community, the relationships that have been formed between families and seeing the difference in the community spirit and knowing that we’ve played a huge part in that. We can provide services that a lot of people in the village would struggle to access otherwise.  To be recognised for an award came as a surprise but a very welcome one – I feel immensely proud of our work.”

Tony Hill, a voluntary leader for Portsmouth-based A Band of Brothers who was also recognised at the awards said: “We work with young men between 18 and 25 who are involved with, or a risk of being involved with the criminal justice system. We provide a safe space for these young men to share experiences, get to understand themselves and what has led them to this point, and then through our rights of passage weekend and quest for community programme, we support them in taking steps to become the men they want to be. I’m extremely humbled to be recognised for this award.”

More than 100 people attended the awards ceremony in Winchester, which is supported by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Community Foundation. Jacqui Scott, Chief Executive, commented: “We are proud to support the High Sheriff in recognising the exceptional individuals and groups who work tirelessly to make Hampshire a better place to live. Often working behind the scenes, these remarkable people, including magistrates, volunteer fire and police cadets, Special Constables, and prison theatre groups, go above and beyond to help others. Their efforts have a profound impact, often without widespread recognition. We are continually inspired by their dedication and have enjoyed celebrating this year’s awardees.”

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