Local Mencap charity nominated for award
This award celebrates the work of local volunteer groups across the UK. It is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK, and they are awarded for life.
Happivale Social Club, located on Tamworth Road, provides activities for anyone with learning disabilities over the age of 16 from across the Borough. The Club enables members to participate in social activities which they may otherwise be unable to do, improving both their mental and physical wellbeing. They meet every Monday and Friday evening between 7pm and 9pm, excluding bank holidays, and run trips and extra social activities throughout the year.
The charity has a fantastic group of volunteers who deliver these activities. They currently have 20 volunteers, many of which have been volunteering at Happivale for over 10 years, and one individually around 40 years!
The Club was nominated by the support worker of a beneficiary who, as part of the application, collected glowing references. They were also visited by a Deputy Lieutenant who was very impressed and wrote a report which has been put forward to a final decision-making panel overseen by the King. Now, the club will be waiting with bated breath until the decision is announced in November on King Charles’ birthday.
Kelly Hart, Chair of Happivale Social Club - Long Eaton and District Mencap said: “'We are all so excited and very proud to have been nominated and considered for the award. Even if we do not win, this is great recognition for the hard work of our volunteers and the difference we make to our members.”
A Happivale Club member added: “'Happivale is fantastic, I love coming along each week and seeing my friends and joining in all the activities. I cannot wait to get a decision and hope that one day the King will come and visit, and we can meet him and the Queen!”
Erewash council deputy leader Cllr Becca Everett who is Lead Member for Community Engagement said: “This nomination is well deserved. The organisation is invaluable to our local community and the work they do to support residents with learning disabilities is wonderful. We are keeping our fingers crossed that Happivale Social Club will receive the award!“
Happivale relies on fundraising and the good will of volunteers to run the charity. The Club hold fundraising events during the year for the community to pop along, join in with activities and get a cake and a cup of tea. They are always looking for new volunteers and anyone interested in getting involved or joining as a participant should email info@happivale.org.uk for more information and a chat.