This year’s VODA AGM saw the welcome return of the VODA VCSE Awards, a time to celebrate the outstanding contributions of North Tyneside’s volunteers, trustees, voluntary organisations and community-friendly businesses. With many nominations this year, these awards recognise the hard work and dedication of individuals and groups who make a difference in our communities.
Here is a look at this year’s deserving award recipients
Trustee of the Year: Terry McDermott, North Shields Fishermen’s Heritage Project
As the awards took place during Trustees’ Week, it was only fitting that the first award presented was for Trustee of the Year, to highlight the essential role that trustees play in the voluntary and community sector. A good trustee is generous with their support and willingly offers their skills, expertise and networks and this year’s recipient is no exception.
This year, we were delighted to present the award to Terry McDermott, Chair of the North Shields Fishermen’s Heritage Project. Terry’s leadership has been instrumental in helping the organisation grow, creating local landmark sculptures and a hub to celebrate and explore North Shields’ fishing heritage. His commitment and good humour have driven the project forward, making a positive impact in the community.
Volunteer of the Year: Robert Carpenter, Age UK North Tyneside
The Volunteer of the Year award went to Robert (Bob) Carpenter, who has volunteered with Age UK North Tyneside since 2012. Bob has delivered hundreds of seated exercise classes, bringing fun and energy to thousands of participants. Well-loved by those who attend his classes, Bob is a great ambassador for Age UK North Tyneside and his energy and enthusiasm are infectious.
Young Volunteer of the Year: Thomas Mackie, Walking With in North Tyneside
Selecting the recipient of the Young Volunteer Award is always difficult. The young people nominated are all winners in our eyes, which is why this category also features Special Commendations.
However, this year’s recipient of the Young Volunteer of the Year award is Thomas Mackie from Walking With in North Tyneside. Thomas began volunteering as part of his sixth form’s enrichment programme. He quickly established himself as a valued volunteer who puts people at ease, helping them to feel safe and supported. Thomas has earned respect for his patience, commitment, and willingness to help in many areas, from fundraising to community events. Thomas’s school is also becoming a School of Sanctuary, largely due to Thomas’s engagement with the charity.
Special Commendations in the Young Volunteer of the Year category:
Amy Oliver – for her work with North Tyneside Carers’ Centre, supporting young people’s groups and representing them on the Young Carers’ Forum.
Bailey Wilson – for his fundraising efforts for Live Well with Cancer, providing teddy bears for children whose family members are undergoing cancer treatment.
Acorns Youth Panel – for their support to young people affected by domestic abuse, raising awareness and creating resources for professionals.
Voluntary Organisation of the Year: Support and Grow North-East
Support and Grow North-East received the award for Voluntary Organisation of the Year. Dedicated to alleviating poverty and reducing social isolation, the organisation made a substantial impact in 2023. They distributed over 3,000 emergency food parcels, 1,700 hygiene kits, and 850 clothing parcels, along with 650 hours of community activity. Their work has brought vital support to those most in need across North Tyneside.
David Bavaird Award for Community-minded Business: Hadrian Safety Management
Hadrian Safety Management, led by Rob Chambers, received the David Bavaird Award for Community-minded Business. Rob worked closely with Sector Connector to provide free Emergency First Aid training to over 30 small voluntary organisations in the past year. His commitment to health and safety training has been a valuable resource to these groups, helping them better support their communities.
VODA Volunteers of the Year: Jim Latifi and Carlos Correia
The final awards were presented to two dedicated VODA volunteers.
Jim Latifi has been active in the Help Me Be Digital project and supports isolated residents with errands and other needs.
Carlos Correia has been a valued volunteer in the Good Neighbours project, assisting with shopping, gardening, and companionship for people facing health challenges.
Their work has made a meaningful difference in the lives of those they support.
Congratulations to all our award recipients! Each of them has made a significant impact on the North Tyneside community, and we are grateful for their dedication and service. Thank you for helping to make North Tyneside a better place.
