A LONG-SERVING volunteer at St Giles Hospice has been recognised with one of the country’s highest honours for her dedication to the local community.
Joan Fairley has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of her outstanding voluntary service and commitment to supporting others over many years.
The 94-year-old has devoted countless hours to volunteering with the Whittington-based hospice after her husband Norman was cared for by the hospice at the end of his life.
Joan has raised over £30,000 for St Giles, with more than £10,000 generated entirely through her homemade jams and chutneys which she sells at the hospice and outside her home.
Her work has also gained national recognition. In 2023, she was invited to join members of the Royal Family at Westminster Abbey for the Together at Christmas concert hosted by the Princess of Wales, an honour extended to just 1,600 people nationwide for their community and charity work.
Joan was presented with her BEM on behalf of His Majesty the King at County Buildings in Stafford.
As part of the celebrations surrounding her award, Joan was also invited to Buckingham Palace last month, where she attended a special garden party.
She said:
"I love volunteering at St Giles because of the incredible care and support my husband received at the end of his life.
"Norman said to me 'you will help them for me, won't you?' – and that’s what I have been doing ever since.
"The people at St Giles are like an extended family to me. They are wonderful people, and it means so much to be able to give something back."
In total, more than 800 volunteers play a vital role in helping the hospice deliver its vital services.
Sarah Keenan, group volunteer manager at St Giles, said:
"Joan’s kindness and support have touched the lives of so many people connected to St Giles Hospice.
"This recognition is incredibly well deserved and all of us at St Giles are immensely proud of her."
To find out more about volunteering at St Giles Hospice, visit www.stgileshospice.com/support-us/volunteer.
