Deserved honours underline importance of work achieved and point to continuing need in our communities

Huge congratulations to NCVYS trustees Ashley Sweetland and Kevin Curley who have been awarded an MBE and CBE respectively. The recognition of both voluntary and community sector stalwarts is both reward and endorsement for their continued hard work.

In the Honours List, released on Saturday 16 June, Her Majesty The Queen recognised both Ashley and Kevin for services given; Ashley Sweetland, Vice Chair of NCVYS’s Board of Trustees, has been awarded an MBE for services to Young People, while Kevin Curley, NCVYS Trustee, has received a CBE for services to the Voluntary and Community Sector.

However, for neither NCVYS trustee does this mean the end of a journey, but rather confirmation of the value of their continued contribution.

This is most clearly the case with Ashley. At 28 years old, Ashley has already accomplished a great deal as a leading advocate of young people’s views for more than a decade, and in particular his work with the UK Youth Parliament as an elected Member, Trustee, Chairman and interim Executive Director between 2000-2011; “Receiving this acknowledgement is of course a special moment,” said Ashley, “but I’d like to think of it as a vote of confidence in so many people’s hard work, particularly the young people that lead UKYP – past and present.  For all that has been achieved in their name. I also want to acknowledge the tremendous debt of gratitude I owe to all those who supported me.  It’s an important time for young people – and the work that NCVYS does in providing a unique and powerful platform means that it’s never been more important to hear the voice of young people, so it’s no time to sit back!

At the other end of the spectrum, Kevin has been recognised for over 40 years of dedicated service. Throughout his distinguished career Kevin has led at chief officer level in five British third sector organisations, encompassing city, regional, UK wide and international levels. He is experienced with representing charities at the highest levels, and has also been involved in Trusteeship since 1972.

Commenting on his award, Kevin said “This award encourages all those who believe that local voluntary action is a vital part of our democratic life.  It needs a supportive government and supportive local councils if it is to flourish.  It needs local funders who understand how grants for local voluntary action and neighbourhood work can achieve so much more than restrictive contracts.  This is all under threat now and I will work with those who seek to mitigate this threat and defend local voluntary action.”

Kanchan Jadeja, Chair of NCVYS Board of Trustees, echoed these sentiments: “We’re very proud of all of our Trustees, MBE/CBE or not, but we’re thrilled for Ashley and Kevin – huge congratulations go to both from all of our Trustees and staff. The recognition not only rewards their enthusiasm and committed action on behalf of others, but also endorses their continued work in this area. We must keep working and speaking for those who have no voice; for those in our communities who ask for, and need, help. The voluntary and community youth sector needs such committed champions like Ashley and Kevin, and NCVYS who share their vision are delighted to have their expertise and insight on our Board.

“On the cusp of launching our new three year Strategy, all of our Trustees have helped shape our future direction and this fantastic news only strengthens our belief in the wisdom of those who do so.”