Compassionate care worker honoured with MBE

Neil Powrie MBE
Neil Powrie MBE

A housing support worker who has dedicated nearly 40 years to helping and supporting the community of Dundee has been awarded an MBE from the Queen.

Dundee born and bred Neil Powrie, 61, currently works with Blackwood Housing and Care and received the prestigious honour for his commitment to the provision of voluntary services across the city.

Neil currently holds the title of Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dundee and has volunteered in a wide variety of jobs across the public sector spanning over four decades.

His positions have included serving 28 years on the Dundee District and City Councils, as well as being a member of Tayside Police Board, a National Convener of the Asso of Prison Visiting Committees across Scotland and spending 15 years as a Scout leader, before taking up his current position with Blackwood in 2007.

(Back row, from left) Major Iain Powrie, Michael Wood, Rev Prebendary, William Scott CVO, former sub Dean of the Chapels Royal and chaplain to the Queen, Andrew Whelan,(Blackwood). (Front row, from left) Sue Powrie, Neil Powrie and Louisa Powrie
(Back row, from left) Major Iain Powrie, Michael Wood, Rev Prebendary, William Scott CVO, former sub Dean of the Chapels Royal and chaplain to the Queen, Andrew Whelan,(Blackwood). (Front row, from left) Sue Powrie, Neil Powrie and Louisa Powrie

The devoted housing support worker was presented the coveted Order of Chivalry at an honorary ceremony at Buckingham Palace, where he was praised by Charles, Prince of Wales for his boundless efforts.

Neil said: “It was a real surprise when I came back from holiday to discover the envelope waiting for me behind the door – but a very proud moment indeed, when I had got over the initial shock.

“Visiting Buckingham Palace with my family and getting to shake Prince Charles’ hand was a great experience, and being appointed to the membership of such a special Order was a true honour.

“My current role with Blackwood is incredibly valuable to me. Helping to make a difference to the lives of others is something I have always strived towards and supporting tenants across the Dundee community is something I find very rewarding.”

Fanchea Kelly, chief executive at Blackwood, said: “This is such a fantastic and well-deserved achievement for Neil and it is a real privilege to have him working with us at Blackwood. His commitment to and passion for supporting our tenants is truly inspirational.

“Everyone here is delighted that his dedication has been commended and we’re sure he will have many more successes in the future.”

The announcement was made on Saturday 13th June on the occasion of the Celebration of Her Majesty’s Birthday. The royal ceremony was held on Thursday 10th December at Buckingham Palace. Neil Powrie was appointed a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

@Blackwood_HC

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