Bristol Water’s Sammy Cheeseman has been recognised for helping to address chronic loneliness among elderly people.
The Marmalade Trust connects volunteers with people suffering from loneliness by offering them support and social connection.
The trust has become a lifeline to many people over the last decade – with Sammy stepping up to volunteer after finding herself living alone during the 2020 lockdowns.
Sammy was soon matched with Irene, 88, who was also living alone.
What began as a simple phone call quickly grew into a long-lasting friendship. Today, they talk every Wednesday and enjoy regular outings to cafes, shops and pubs.
Irene has even accompanied Sammy on a social event with some of her Bristol Water colleagues.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the equivalent of an MBE for voluntary groups, celebrates the outstanding work of charities like Marmalade Trust and their volunteers.
Sammy, a Premises Officer at Bristol Water, said: "Irene and I hit it off straight away due to our shared love of gardening.
"She's so ingrained in my life now, I wouldn't know what to do without her and I know she feels the same.
“I look after her and she looks after me. My life is better for having Irene in it – and she’s good fun to take to the pub!
“It’s fantastic we have been recognised for this award.
“Everyone at the charity works so hard, I am very proud to be part of this.”
Irene said: “Sammy really is wonderful. She helps me with the garden and we go out to eat, I’m so glad we got matched together.
“Our friendship means so much to me, it’s made me secure as I know I’ve got someone who can help me if I need anything.”
Marmalade Trust’s COO, Tara Fisher, said: “Receiving The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is a tremendous honour for the entire Marmalade Trust team, our volunteers, and the people we support.
“This award highlights the vital role of addressing loneliness and social isolation, and it’s a testament to the dedication and compassion of volunteers like Sammy who make our work possible."
