The Sussex Heart Charity, an organisation dedicated to supporting heart patients and improving cardiovascular health across Sussex, has been honoured with the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This accolade is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK, acknowledging exceptional contributions to local communities.
Founded over 35 years ago, the Sussex Heart Charity has been at the forefront of providing life-saving equipment, funding medical research, and supporting patients and their families. The charity’s work includes placing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across Sussex, funding specialist cardiac nurses and promoting heart health education throughout the community.
The award recognises the incredible dedication of the charity’s volunteers, who are the lifeblood of its operations. These volunteers work tirelessly to raise funds, offer support to heart patients and promote vital heart health awareness. Their efforts have had a lasting impact on countless lives in Sussex, from saving lives through the timely use of AEDs to supporting patients through their recovery journey.
In response to receiving the award, Jason Palmer, Trustee of the Sussex Heart Charity, said:
“Being awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service is an extraordinary honour for the Sussex Heart Charity and our incredible team of volunteers. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, passion and commitment of everyone involved in the charity. It acknowledges the importance of the work we do and the positive impact we have on the lives of heart patients and their families.
Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Their dedication and compassion drive our mission to support those affected by heart disease in Sussex. We are immensely proud of this achievement and grateful for the recognition of our efforts to improve heart health in our community.”
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service celebrates the outstanding work of local volunteer groups across the UK. The award process begins with nominations in June each year, followed by the King personally selecting the winners during the summer. The official announcement of the awards is made on His Majesty The King’s Birthday.
As the Sussex Heart Charity looks to the future, it remains committed to continuing its vital work in supporting heart patients, promoting heart health and making a difference in the lives of people across Sussex. This award is not just a recognition of past achievements but an encouragement to keep pushing forward, ensuring that no one in Sussex has to face heart disease alone.
