A Proud Moment for Helping Hearts Fylde
Our Team along with the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire celebrate being awarded the Kings Award For Voluntary Service.
We are incredibly proud and humbled to share some truly wonderful news: we announced few months ago that, Helping Hearts Fylde was awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honour given to volunteer groups in the UK and the equivalent of an MBE. This prestigious award recognises outstanding community service and is awarded for life.
Last week, we were honoured to formally receive the award at our centre. The Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire visited to present the award on behalf of His Majesty The King, marking an unforgettable moment for our volunteers, supporters, and the people we serve. Joining the Lord Lieutenant was the Mayor of Blackpool, Kim Critchley, who came to celebrate this incredible achievement alongside our team.
This special occasion was not just about receiving an award — it was a moment to recognise the compassion, dedication, and tireless efforts of our volunteers, who are the heart of Helping Hearts Fylde. Their commitment every week ensures we can support the most vulnerable members of our community.
Andrew Mills CEO of Helping Hearts Fylde, accepts the Kings Award on behalf of the charity.
From Humble Beginnings to a Lifeline for Many
Helping Hearts Fylde was launched in 2020 with a simple mission: to support people experiencing homelessness in Blackpool. What began as a small initiative has grown into a vital lifeline for some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
Today, due to an unprecedented rise in demand — more than 600% over the last five years — we provide far more than emergency food. Our services now include:
A non-referral food bank
A clothing bank
Baby and pet banks
Hot meals
Crisis support
Emergency accommodation
Every Thursday, our doors open to welcome between 150 and 170 people. Those we support come from all walks of life: single parents, rough sleepers, pensioners, and individuals and families struggling with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
As our CEO, Andrew Mills, explains:
“Every week we welcome people who simply need a bit of help to get through. We see 10 to 20 new faces every single week, and the need just keeps growing.”
A Place Where Everyone Is Welcome
Our newest volunteer and service user Darren bringing his lived experience to help those in need and pay it forward.
One of the things we are most proud of is that we are the only non-referral food bank in Blackpool. This means anyone can walk through our doors without judgement or barriers.
“Anybody is welcome to come and see us,” Andrew says. “Regardless of race, religion, or background.”
This openness is at the heart of Helping Hearts Fylde — ensuring dignity, kindness, and support for everyone who needs it.
Volunteers at the Heart of Everything We Do
The King’s Award belongs to our volunteers. They are the heartbeat of Helping Hearts Fylde.
Andrew shared his pride following the formal presentation:
“It is absolutely wonderful for all our volunteers. This award is a real testament to their dedication and compassion every single week, serving the people of Blackpool.”
Our volunteers come from all backgrounds, including those who are receiving support themselves.
One such volunteer is Darren, who has been living on the streets after losing his job. Despite his own challenges, Darren gives his time to help others.
“It’s the worst feeling not being able to have a hot drink first thing in the morning, not being able to get food,” he explains.
“The cold is the worst thing — just trying to survive and find somewhere safe to sleep.”
Yet Darren still chooses to give back:
“I wear my heart on my sleeve. If I can help somebody, I always will. That’s why I volunteer here — to give back and show how much I appreciate what Helping Hearts does for me.”
Looking Ahead
Receiving the King’s Award for Voluntary Service is a moment we will treasure forever — but our work is far from done. The need in our community continues to grow, and so does our determination to meet it with compassion, dignity, and hope.
To every volunteer, supporter, donor, and person who has walked through our doors: this award is yours. Thank you for being part of the Helping Hearts Fylde family.
Together, we will continue to make a difference — one heart at a time. ❤️
