Thatcham Swings & Smiles disability charity nominated for prestigious King’s Award

A Thatcham disability charity has been nominated for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service for its services to disabled children and their families.

Swings & Smiles has been named as one of Berkshire’s 14 nominees for the prestigious award for its work delivering accessible play spaces for disabled children, respite care for families and additional support for their siblings.

The Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Andrew Try, hosted all nominees at a reception at Wokingham Town Hall to celebrate the volunteer groups nominated.

Swings & Smiles chief executive Rhonda Nicklin said: “The nomination truly means the world to us.

“It’s a reflection of the hard work all of our volunteers and team members dedicate to the service we offer.

“By working together, we’ve been able to achieve something incredible.

“No child should ever miss out on the opportunity to play.

“We provide accessible equipment and spaces so that no matter how complex a child’s needs may be, we can welcome them.

“It has been a joy to watch our visiting children blossom and our families thrive during their time with us.”

Trustee Tor Sandars added: “Each and every team member should be immensely proud of this nomination.

“I’m truly grateful to every volunteer who gives up their time to support what we do and make a difference.”

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest honour given to volunteer groups to acknowledge the impact they have on local communities.

It is equivalent to an MBE and is awarded for life.

The awardees will be announced on the King’s Birthday on Thursday, November 14.