Ann Bridle has volunteered at Home-Start Epsom, Ewell and Banstead since it opened in 1997. 

She was nominated for her award by a mother she is helping through chronic mental health problems:  “Ann is always there - reliable, constant encouraging and trustworthy. I am so grateful for this, because most tend to view people like me as a project that they can sort out. Sometimes life isn't as black and white as that, and unlike others Ann didn't just ‘drop me’ when there were no easy answers or quick solutions. Ann has been prepared to be alongside me and my family on the bumpy journey of life, and we are so grateful.”

Watch how Ann first heard the news of her win:

Debbie McGee, manager of Home-Start Epsom, Ewell and Banstead said, “This category is for a volunteer who has shown extraordinary commitment and excellence during their volunteering - and Ann has.  She may be the only consistency in these children’s week when their mother is ill and their world is very uncertain. Without her support the family would have been a very difficult position.  She has helped the family to put in place a network of support for when their mother does need to be admitted. Ann is a true Home-Start champion. And she even finds time to help out at events, fundraising and our children’s parties.  We are so proud of her.”

Ann’s glass trophy and a certificate signed by the charity’s royal patron, HRH Princess Alexandra, were presented to her by the daughters of Margaret Harrison, founder of Home-Start (left).  The awards celebration took place at the charity’s national convention in Nottingham, on Monday 21 March. 

Before the awards ceremony, Ann and the winners of the other Home-Start national volunteer award categories were treated to a pamper afternoon, courtesy of The White Rose School of Health and Beauty, and to afternoon tea with Kirstie Allsopp.

Find out more about our other ten amazing volunteers who won awards in 2016.