LIFT is proud and delighted that its volunteer-led project B3 / BSAFE is the winner of the 2012 Andy Ludlow Homelessness Prize for the Best Use of Volunteers.
B-3 is a group of volunteers based in Brent that meet weekly to address the risks of drug and alcohol use and to have a say in the running of local services and other aspects of community life.
Lift’s Involvement Co-ordinator provides training and support to strengthen the work of the B3 group.
In 2010 the B-3 group set up BSAFE - a Saturday drop-in service for people with substance addictions. BSAFE offers a safe space to get food, advice and friendship. BSAFE is entirely managed by volunteers.
The Andy Ludlow Awards are annual awards from the London Housing Foundation, on behalf of the London Boroughs and Shelter. Further information on the awards can be found at http://www.lhf.org.uk/Andy_Ludlow_Homelessness_Awards.aspx
Lift has been granted the prize for best use of volunteers for creating imaginative and innovative volunteering opportunities, providing training for volunteers and planning the evolution of volunteer roles.
The prize of £10,000 will be used to sustain the BSAFE service and to strengthen Lift’s volunteer training programme. The awards reception and ceremony will be held at 12.20pm on Thursday 18 October at Speaker’s House in the House of Commons.
B3 volunteer Ossie Yemoh said:
“To be recognized for what we have achieved is absolutely tremendous.”
Lift Chair Martin Cheeseman O.B.E. said:
“Handing responsibility to volunteers is part of Lift’s DNA. I am delighted that Lift’s commitment to volunteer-led services has been recognized. B3 is just one example of how Lift creates opportunities and provides training for volunteers to get involved in their communities and run self-help projects.”
Lift and B3 Volunteers Celebrate at the Andy Ludlow Awards.