The charity has spent over 50 years offering support and a helping hand to people affected by homelessness and other forms of crisis in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Aberdeen Cyrenians is one of 241 charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year. The number of nominations remains high year on year, showing that the voluntary sector is thriving and full of innovative ideas to make life better for those around them.

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is considered ‘the MBE for volunteer groups’ aiming to recognise exceptional service and impact within communities, and is the highest honour for volunteer groups in the UK. Recipients are announced each year on 2nd June, the anniversary of The Queen’s Coronation.

Representatives of Aberdeen Cyrenians will receive the award crystal and certificate from Barney Crockett, Lord-Lieutenant of Aberdeen later this summer. Furthermore, two volunteers from Aberdeen Cyrenians will attend a garden party at Holyroodhouse in July 2022 (depending on restrictions), along with other recipients of this year’s Award.

Yesterday also marked the beginning of ‘Volunteers Week,’ an annual campaign entering its 37th year, which sees charities, voluntary groups, social organisations, and volunteers themselves come together to recognise the incredible impact that volunteering has had on local communities.

Mike Burns, CEO at Aberdeen Cyrenians, said: “To win this prestigious award is a wonderful achievement for our volunteers and services that have dedicated their time and compassion to supporting people going through overwhelming and traumatic circumstances. It’s also fantastic that we get to celebrate this achievement on Volunteers Week when everyone comes together to celebrate all of the volunteers within our communities.

“It goes without saying that volunteers have played a key role in the Covid-19 pandemic response. During an exceptionally difficult year, people from all walks of life have stepped up to help some of the most vulnerable people in our community – just as they do every year.

“Our volunteers inspire us every single day with their amazing attitudes and infectious energy. Without them we couldn’t carry out vital activities such as making up and delivering food parcels, sorting donations, and helping us behind the scenes: they are all very important in keeping Aberdeen Cyrenians operating and helping those in need.

“We’re looking forward to celebrating with all our volunteers once restrictions are eased and cannot wait to show our appreciation and gratitude for all their exceptional work.”