Three outstanding community organisations from Antrim and Newtownabbey: Community Relations Forum, Mallusk Community Action Group, and Sensory Kids, have been recognised with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This is the highest honour awarded to volunteer groups in the UK, equivalent to an MBE, and recognises their exceptional contribution to local communities.
Announced on King Charles III official birthday on 14 November, the awards celebrate the extraordinary impact volunteers make across the UK. This year, 231 groups nationwide have received the accolade. Following the announcement, the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick visited each group to personally congratulate volunteers and acknowledge their dedication.
The awarded groups have all demonstrated exceptional community impact: the Community Relations Forum promotes equality, inclusion, and cross-community engagement; Mallusk Community Action Group delivers a wide range of programmes and heritage projects to enhance the local area; and Sensory Kids provides vital support and sensory-based activities for children, young people, and adults with disabilities, helping build confidence, practical skills, and social connections. Each of these groups are powered by dedicated volunteers.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said: “I’m so proud of these local groups and everything they do for our communities. Their hard work, passion and dedication make a real difference to people’s lives, and it’s wonderful to see them recognised with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.”
The official King’s Award for Voluntary Service plaque will be formally presented to each group by the Lord Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell KStJ, at a celebration event hosted by the Council next year.
