The King’s Award for Voluntary Service

Proud and delighted to share the news...

Move the Masses has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service!

This is a huge achievement which celebrates the incredible work of all our volunteers.

Thank you to...

The volunteers and beneficiaries who came along to the assessment day earlier in the year
Joe from Social Vision for nominating us
The individuals and organisations who acted as referees including: Karen Dransfield from Age UK, Area Coordinator Anna Harrison, Jacqui Fountain from the University of York, Social Prescriber Lora Stephenson from York CVS, Ruth Thompson-Vear from 54 Homes North, Craig Waugh from Community Health Champions, and Carl Wain, Paul Ramskill and Joe Micheli from City of York Council.

Volunteer Spotlights

Selby Volunteer Move Mate, Pauline says her favourite part of volunteering is seeing the smile on her paired walker’s face when she opens the door.

“It’s better than a thousand words to express what a difference it makes to her.”

Leeds Volunteer Move Mate, Katrina was inspired to volunteer with us because of how much walking can improve mental and physical health.

“It’s such a simple and effective way to ‘break up’ a bad day or keep the bad days away if done regularly.

I take my ability to just get up and go out for granted, but not everyone has that privilege. I really enjoy helping others to access this little gem of a mood/fitness buster/booster!

I love seeing those I walk with benefiting from our walks. I’ll never get tired of seeing their smiles when I come to the door. Helping others discover our local community is incredibly powerful.”

York Volunteer Move Mate, Danny wanted to give back to his local community following retirement.

“Move the Masses gave me the opportunity to walk every day, and help others at the same time.

It was and still is a marriage made in heaven.”

A word from our CEO, Becci Blues

“Move Mates is more than just a walking project; for many of our beneficiaries it’s a lifeline.

Our 300 amazing volunteers are the backbone of our work, providing regular support and encouragement to help beneficiaries get out of their homes and enjoy healthier, more connected lives.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is a testament to their dedication and the profound impact they have on our local communities.”

Join our Volunteer Move Mates Community

We have project areas in York, Leeds, Durham, Selby and Pocklington.

Volunteering with us is flexible, active and supportive.

Apply to join us here or click on your nearest area above to get in touch with your local Project Manager.