Hart Gables, an LGBTQ+ support service in Teeside and East Durham who have been around for more than two decades, have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2025. This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is the equivalent to an MBE.
The service provides emotional support to individuals living with poor mental health, those who are seeking asylum, and those who are living with physical and hidden disabilities. Many of their service users face the harsh realities of recurring hate crimes, discrimination, poverty and social isolation.
“We are absolutely thrilled that our charity has been recognised, especially at a time when our community faces many challenges. Receiving this award during our 20th year anniversary as a registered charity makes it even more special, marking a huge milestone in our journey. We’re extremely proud of our incredible volunteers and team, whose dedication, compassion, and hard work drive everything we do. From our trustees and facilitators to our focus group participants, each volunteer plays a vital role in shaping Hart Gables and changing lives for the better” – Sarah Lewis, CEO, Hart Gables
Hart Gables is one of 231 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 all of the ways fantastic charities are contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them.
“I am absolutely delighted that Hart Gables has been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. The support they give to reduce isolation and to improve the mental wellbeing of people with gender and sexuality concerns is truly outstanding. They are richly deserving winners of this award” – Dame Susan Snowden, DCVO, Lord Lieutenant of County Durham
“As Trustees, we are deeply honoured that Hart Gables has been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This prestigious recognition celebrates the passion, resilience, and dedication of every volunteer, trustee, and staff member who has supported our community for over two decades. Hart Gables is, for many, a family at heart, a place of acceptance, kindness, and belonging for those who are often overlooked or underserved. This award honours the compassion and commitment that define our work” – Hart Gables Trustees
More information on the recipients and the King’s Award for Voluntary Service can be found HERE.