Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI, a dedicated charity based in Bessbrook, has been honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest accolade given to local voluntary groups across the UK. This award, often referred to as the equivalent of an MBE for volunteer groups, recognises the outstanding contributions made by volunteers in their communities.
The award, established in 2002 during the Queen’s Golden Jubilee, celebrates excellence in voluntary work that has a positive impact on the lives of others. For Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI, this recognition underscores the vital support and advocacy they have provided for individuals living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and Fibromyalgia across Northern Ireland.
Celebrating the Achievement
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the formal presentation of the award was delayed. However, the long-awaited ceremony was held on 28 October 2022, at a special reception hosted by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. During the event, Councillor Michael Savage, the Council Chairperson, acknowledged the charity’s remarkable contributions to the local community.
In his speech, Councillor Savage commended the work of Joan McParland, the charity’s founder member and current Treasurer, who is herself a patient of these conditions. He emphasised that Joan’s dedication, alongside the efforts of other volunteers, has been instrumental in providing much-needed support and raising awareness for those who often feel isolated in their struggles with ME and Fibromyalgia.
The award was presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Co Armagh, The Earl of Caledon KCVO JP, who expressed his honour in finally being able to hand over this prestigious award to the group after the pandemic-related delays. The ceremony was also attended by Deputy Lieutenants David Reaney and Jill Armstrong, as well as Sandra Adair MBE, Northern Ireland’s representative for the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
The Significance of the Award
Receiving the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is a testament to the tireless work of Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI in advocating for and supporting individuals with these chronic conditions. The charity’s initiatives have not only helped patients manage their conditions better but have also fostered a sense of community and understanding within Northern Ireland.
As Joan McParland remarked, the award is a collective recognition of the charity’s volunteers, many of whom are patients themselves, and their unwavering commitment to making a difference. This accolade not only highlights their past achievements but also inspires continued efforts to support those affected by ME and Fibromyalgia.
The Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s reception concluded with a presentation from Councillor Savage to the charity, marking the Council’s pride in the success of Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI in attaining this distinguished honour.
Continuing the Mission
Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI remains dedicated to its mission of raising awareness, providing education, and offering support to those affected by ME and Fibromyalgia. The recognition from the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service serves as a powerful endorsement of their work and motivates the charity to continue advocating for better understanding and resources for these often misunderstood conditions.
