Upbeat Communities Proudly Receives the Beacon of Hope Award

Upbeat Communities are proud to be recipients of a Beacon of Hope Award, presented by CBE Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Elizabeth Fothergill.

On Monday 19th July, a group of staff, volunteers and participants were presented with a Beacon of Hope Award, for our work in welcoming refugees and supporting them through the pandemic.

Our Chief Executive, Andrew Jackson, who was there to receive the award said:

“We know how much impact the work of our staff and volunteers has had on the lives of those seeking sanctuary in Derby during this pandemic, however it is fantastic to be recognised by others for our tireless commitment.”

The award was developed as a joint initiative between the City Council, County Council, the High Sherriff and the Lord-Lieutenant to identify, and to express thanks to those groups or individuals who have worked tirelessly to keep our communities safe, and our businesses moving during the global COVID-19 crisis.

Councillor Chris Poulter, leader of Derby City Council, said: "On an almost daily basis, we see and hear of the adaptability, flexibility and the determined efforts of so many people, to support all those in need throughout our communities.

"Alongside the Lord-Lieutenant and the High Sheriff, we are looking to highlight the incredible efforts of just some of those people, who are selflessly prepared to go the extra mile without ever seeking recognition."

We were specifically commended for our work with pregnant and new mums, with our volunteers collecting and delivering essential baby clothes, nappies and maternity items who would have struggled to access these things due to lockdown.

In addition to our work with pregnant and new mums, we also provided a range of services throughout lockdown, including fortnightly emergency grocery deliveries to over 160 households, daily online English classes delivered through Zoom, and regular communication through WhatsApp (including useful info, news and positive messages) to almost 600 refugees and asylum seekers.

In addition to Upbeat Communities, recipients of the awards include individuals, charities, faith groups and schools. A full list can be found here.