Volunteers of Fermanagh-based charity Cancer Connect NI are being recognised with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The announcement of this year’s award recipients was made on June 2, which happened to coincide with Volunteers’ Week which ran from June 1 to 7.

Cancer Connect NI Volunteers will be presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service by Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Fermanagh at a Presentation Ceremony to be held in September 2019.

The Award is the highest form of civic recognition that can be granted to an organisation in acknowledgement of the outstanding work of volunteers.

Breda McGrenaghan, Cancer Connect NI said: “I am very proud of Cancer Connect NI’s achievement in being awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. This is a particularly important year as the charity celebrates its 10th year and this prestigious award endorses the work of the charity.”

She continued: “It is an award for and about our very valued volunteers and recognises their dedication and unstinting support for cancer clients and their families in Co. Fermanagh.”

Breda noted how the substantial amount of work and commitment charities put into their local communities is surpassed only by the passion and motivation of the individuals who volunteer.

She added: “Cancer Connect NI instills a person-centred approach, supporting volunteers to develop, flourish and work collectively to make a difference and to make the cancer journey less lonely for cancer clients.

“It specifically recognises the vital role played by our Board members and the contribution they make in achieving our mission - to provide support services and guidance to cancer clients, their families and carers in a safe, respectful and confidential environment.”

Highlighting the charity’s Patrons, Nathan Carter and Lisa McHugh, Breda noted how they both have been “instrumental and inspirational” within the charity.

The Northern Ireland Representative for the Award, Walter Rader OBE said: “This is a wonderful achievement for Cancer Connect NI as it recognises the dedication, commitment and skills of volunteers who every day of the week invest their time to help others.”

Cancer Connect NI provides emotional and practical support and guidance to cancer clients and their families in Co. Fermanagh and its environs.