On 25th June the volunteers, trustees and staff of Bedfordshire Open Door enjoyed a royal themed Garden Party to celebrate the achievement of the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the equivalent of the MBE for volunteers. Volunteer Ravinder said “It’s so amazing to be recognised for our work and fab to have the chance to get together and have some fun, food and a few laughs with the rest of the team!”

Two key supporters of our charity sent warm wishes to the team, recognising the value and contribution of our counsellors and the rest of the team.

The Rt Hon Alistair Burt, who nominated our charity for the award, posted on Twitter “Many congratulations. A fantastic achievement and worthy recognition of the value of the work and the need for it”

MP Mohammed Yasin sent a lovely email: “Congratulations to you and all your team for the achievement of this extremely prestigious honour, recognising the outstanding work being carried out by Bedfordshire Open Door’s staff and volunteers. On behalf of myself and the constituents of Bedford and Kempston a huge thank you for the hard work and vital mental health services you provide locally.”