Sunderland children's charity Love, Amelia bags an honour from the King

It is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive. It is equivalent to an MBE. Recipients are announced on the monarch's birthday.

Love, Amelia supports children aged 0-16 across the North East who are experiencing poverty and hardship. The charity provides new and top quality pre-loved essential items to meet their needs; including clothing, safe sleeping places, nappies, toiletries and toys.

Since its foundation in 2019, the charity has supported nearly 20,000 children and families, distributing over £2 million worth of essential items.

It is committed to giving children the best possible start in life, ensuring they have access to the items they need to be safe, happy and able to thrive.

Love, Amelia welcomes individual volunteers, as well as volunteers from businesses, education and public sector services. Over 60 volunteers contribute more than 500 hours every month.

The charity will receive the award crystal and certificate from the Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear next summer. Also, two representatives from Love, Amelia will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May and June 2025, along with other recipients.

Steph Capewell, founder and chief executive of Love, Amelia said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, an honour that truly belongs to our incredible volunteers.

"At Love, Amelia, our volunteers are the backbone of everything we do, dedicating their time, effort, and compassion every day to support the youngest members of our society.

"Each month, we are proud to welcome over 60 volunteers from a range of backgrounds; from individuals balancing work and family commitments, to retired professionals and those volunteering through businesses, organisations, or educational institutions.

"Every single person plays a vital role here, sharing our passion for tackling child poverty. This award is a testament to their hard work and commitment, and I am thrilled to pay tribute to each of them in this very special way.”

For more information or to get involved, visit www.loveamelia.org.uk or get in touch at [email protected].

Sunderland’s North East Land Sea & Air Museum (NELSAM) has also been given the The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.