Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council hosted a celebratory evening at Lagan Valley Island to honour Live Life Well-Being Centre and Social Enterprises on being awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest accolade given to volunteer groups across the United Kingdom.
Approved by His Majesty The King, the award recognises the outstanding dedication and contribution of volunteers who make a significant positive impact in their communities. The evening brought together participants, families, volunteers, staff, civic representatives and invited guests to celebrate this prestigious national recognition.
Live Life Well-Being Centre and Social Enterprises provides high quality, inclusive day opportunities for young adults with severe learning difficulties in the Lisburn area. Operating from Sarah Crothers Hall and the redeveloped Grove Activity Centre, the organisation promotes wellbeing, independence and meaningful community engagement.
What makes the award particularly special is that it recognises the volunteering efforts of the participants themselves. Through a wide range of activities, they give back to the wider community by supporting foodbanks, fundraising for local charities, knitting items for neonatal units and bringing companionship and joy to nursing home residents.
The evening began with a welcome from our Mayor, Alderman Amanda Grehan, followed by dinner and a programme that included reflections on the organisation’s work, a video presentation by Live Life Well-Being, and the formal presentation of the King’s Award crystal, certificate and badges by the Lord Lieutenant, Mr David McCorkell.
Speaking at the event, Mayor, Alderman Amanda Grehan said: “Tonight is a proud and joyful celebration of an organisation that truly embodies the values of compassion, inclusion and community spirit. Live Life Well-Being does not just support young adults with disabilities, it empowers them to be active volunteers who make a real difference in the lives of others.
“My theme for the year is ‘Inclusivity for disabilities, a city that sees everyone’, and there could not be a more fitting example of that theme in action. I am delighted that the work of these volunteers has been recognised and that their tireless efforts to improve health, wellbeing and inclusion across Lisburn and Castlereagh have been honoured with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.”
Philip Reain-Adair, Live Life Well-Being Centre Director of Services added: “I am delighted that our participant’s volunteering work has been recognised through this prestigious award from His Majesty the King.
"This recognition is not just an award — it is a celebration of their spirit, their kindness and their unwavering commitment to others. It belongs to each and every one of them. I wish to pay tribute to their hard work and to making a meaningful contribution in their local community.”
Closing the formal proceedings, Chair of the Corporate Services Committee, Councillor Brian Higginson, paid tribute to everyone involved with the organisation.
Councillor Higginson said: “This award is a moment of immense pride, not only for Live Life Well-Being, but for our entire council area. It recognises years of dedication, commitment and partnership and highlights the powerful role that volunteering plays in building healthier, more connected and more inclusive communities.
“As a Council, we are proud to support organisations like Live Life Well-Being through our Community Investment Fund. This evening demonstrates what can be achieved when local government works alongside the voluntary sector to deliver meaningful and lasting change.”
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council extends its warmest congratulations to Live Life Well-Being Centre and thanks all volunteers, participants, staff and supporters for their remarkable service and positive impact on communities across the area.