Charity honoured for reducing social isolation

Compassionate Kenilworth was formed in 2019 during the pandemic to help battle loneliness and isolation

A charity said it was proud and humbled to be rewarded the highest award given to local volunteering groups in the UK.

Compassionate Kenilworth said it was deeply honoured to be recognised by The King's Award for voluntary service 2025 for its work to reduce social isolation.

The charity was formed during the pandemic in 2019 when 500 volunteers came together with an aim to keep local residents safe and connected.

The group is set to receive the award crystal and certificate from Tim Cox, the Lord-Lieutenant of Warwickshire as well as attend a royal garden party in Buckingham Palace next year.

Today the group runs social, support and learning events as well as bereavement cafes for both adults and young people.

The award, which recognised 231 charities nationwide, was announced on Thursday.

Founder, Pauline Hayward, said: "We are deeply honoured to receive The King's Award.

"This belongs to every volunteer, partner, funder and resident who help to make our community so connected and special."

The group said it was proud of its work after it responded to the "longstanding loneliness and isolation" that it witnessed in the town.

People attending its hubs said it helped them gain confidence.

One person said: "I walked in completely alone, and within minutes felt welcomed, seen, heard and supported.

"Now I have friends, confidence and hope again."

'Heart of everything we do'

A statement on the charity's website said the award is a reflection of the "compassion, kindness and teamwork that runs right through our community".

It thanked its volunteers and local organisations for their support.

The statement said: "Your belief in us allows Compassionate Kenilworth to continue reaching those who need connection the most."

Speaking to the people who attend, it added: "Thank you for trusting us, for sharing your stories, and for being part of this movement.

"You are at the heart of everything we do. Together, we're proving that when a town comes together with care and kindness, amazing things happen.

"From all of us at Compassionate Kenilworth — thank you, and congratulations to our town."