A Royal Recognition: The King's Award for Voluntary Service!
We are absolutely thrilled and immensely proud to announce that the Caribbean & African Community Health Support Forum (CACHSF) has been honored with the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service to the Community! This incredible recognition celebrates the tireless dedication and hard work of our founders and volunteers in supporting Suffolk’s African and Caribbean community.
On Wednesday 11th June, we gathered at Burlington Baptist Church for a truly special occasion, where we were honored with a visit from Lady Clare, Countess of Euston and Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk. Lady Clare delivered heartfelt words, emphasizing the significance of this achievement: “I cannot exaggerate how difficult it is to win this award, but win it you did, and here you are, flying the flag for us”. She also highlighted our impact, stating that CACHSF has become "a trusted voice in the local health authority, one that is heard, listened to, and whose willingness to discuss and highlight specific issues is always welcomed".
Our Journey and Mission: CACHSF was established in 2010 with a clear and vital aim: to address the health issues that disproportionately impact the Caribbean and African community. Over the years, our group has grown significantly, offering a wide variety of support. We provide assistance on diverse issues, including:
• Support managing diabetes
• Advice for a healthy diet
• Exercise classes
Founding member Gloria Simon, who joined to support community members with diabetes, beautifully articulated our ethos: "This is a community. Colour and creed doesn’t matter – we are all here to learn”.
A Celebration of Dedication: Our Chair, Clem Turner, expressed his delight in receiving the award on behalf of the team. He underscored the volunteer spirit that drives us: “We are a very small team, and the majority of us are volunteers. This is a major achievement. Seeing all the people here today, it makes it all worthwhile”.
The ceremony was attended by many esteemed guests who came to congratulate us, including The Deputy Mayor of Ipswich Patricia Bruce-Brown and the new Chair of Suffolk County Council Jessica Fleming. We were also delighted to have members of the BSC Multicultural Services present. Mojlum Khan, secretary of BSC Multicultural Services, shared his admiration, stating: “This is an amazing organisation, which caters for the Caribbean and African community in Ipswich. To do this consistently over such a long period of time is an exceptional achievement. Long may it continue”.
This award is not just a recognition of our past efforts; it is an inspiration to continue our vital work for many years to come. We extend our deepest gratitude to all our volunteers, members, and supporters who make our mission possible.