A volunteer group based in North Lanarkshire has been honoured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service , the highest accolade a local voluntary organisation can receive in the UK, equivalent to an MBE.
The Well Foundation, established in 2008, has dedicated itself to supporting marginalised individuals and communities through sporting, cultural, and social initiatives. The organisation runs eight football teams and provides vital mental health support.
Originally founded as a water charity to deliver clean drinking water and sanitation to communities worldwide, the Foundation has since expanded its mission. While maintaining its international impact, it has become a cornerstone of the local community, offering an exceptionally varied and valued sports programme for people of all ages.
This year, the Well Foundation joins a distinguished list of charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups across the UK to receive this prestigious award. Their work exemplifies the outstanding contribution of volunteers to strengthening local communities and improving lives.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service was established in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and continues under His Majesty The King, who remains committed to recognising the exceptional efforts of volunteer groups. The recipients were announced on 14th November, The King’s Birthday.
Representatives of the Well Foundation will be presented with the award crystal and certificate by the Lord-Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, Lady Haughey CBE, later this year. Additionally, two volunteers will be invited to attend a royal garden party at Holyroodhouse in July 2025.
Lady Haughey, Lord-Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, said:
“The exceptional contribution of the Well Foundation is most deserving of The King’s Award for Voluntary Service. The group has consistently demonstrated a clear mission to uplift and support the less privileged in their community. I look forward to presenting this well-deserved award to the organisation later this year’.
Notes to editors
- Lord-Lieutenants represent the monarch in each of the UK’s ceremonial counties.
- This year there are 281 recipients of The King’s Award Voluntary Service from across the UK and Channel Islands.( 21 from Scotland )
- More information on the recipients and the Award can be found at https://kavs.dcms.gov.uk/
- Full details on how to nominate are available at https://kavs.dcms.gov.uk/
- Nominations for the 2025 awards will close on the 1st December 2024.