Deborah Fitzpatrick and Jennifer Allen, from London are two of 28 remarkable individuals to be recognised at the Palace of Westminster with the prestigious British Citizen Award (BCA) in recognition of their extraordinary endeavours. The British Citizen Award in partnership with One Stop, is now in its 10th year and recognises exceptional people who positively impact their communities throughout the country. Dubbed ‘The People’s Honours’ this programme recognises true community heroes for their divergent endeavours and positive impact on society.

Deborah and Jennifer will be recognised at the Palace of Westminster on Thursday 18th January 2024 and honoured with The British Citizen Award for Services to Community, receiving the coveted BCA Medal of Honour and invited to use the post-nominals BCAc as a legacy of their achievements.

Jennifer, a Secondary School Community Librarian and Deborah, who runs The Reach Out Project at Mycenae House (Community Centre) worked in partnership to develop intergenerational projects between Mycenae House and The John Roan School, as well other local schools.

The joint partnership benefitted those who are isolated or lonely, with poor mental and physical health and those with learning disabilities. The Project challenged assumptions and broke down barriers between generations. Older adults also had a sense of purpose and the Project resulted in younger people having a value and respect of older adults. The pupils gained a better understanding of their own older family members’ challenges.

The impact of students’ involvement had a profound impact on those they met and their confidence grew in ways that could not have been foreseen, helping them grow into the young adults they are today. The pupils developed activities for those with complex needs and dementia, creating a happier environment. With guidance these enthusiastic youngsters spread their positive energy throughout the community. With this dedication they achieved some awesome successes including: becoming Dementia Friends, visiting Care Homes, establishing a school lunch club, reading and poetry in Care Homes; and teaching French.

“This year’s medalists have reminded us of how many amazing people are supporting our communities, especially during such a challenging time. At One Stop we serve many communities across the country, and we know how important voluntary work is to support those in need. We’re proud to be partnering with the BCA again and to play a small part in helping each medalist to be recognised. Our congratulations go to all honourees”, said Stephanie Wood, from BCA partner One Stop.

The Medal presentation will be hosted by TV presenter Matt Allwright, and attended by BCA Patrons, Dame Mary Perkins, Founder of Specsavers, and The Rt Hon Lord Dholakia. The British Citizen Award was established in 2015 to recognise exceptional individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive impact on their communities and society.

Each medalist is presented with their BCA at the Palace of Westminster by Senior Representatives from official partner One Stop, Places for People, Specsavers, Objective HR, and Uniserve who all support this unique programme. Medalists then board an Open Top Lap of Honour tour provided by Big Bus London, before attending a certificate presentation at the prestigious Church House to complete their recognition.

The British Citizen Award is widely viewed as the nation’s way of recognising extraordinary, everyday people from all cultural backgrounds from across the country for exceptional endeavor. The Medal presentation is held twice annually, to nominate an outstanding individual from your community to be considered for The People’s Honours visit www.britishcitizenawards.co.uk.