A Whitby-based charity supporting children with hidden impairments has been formally presented with the highest honour given to volunteer groups in the UK.
A Whitby charity dedicated to supporting families whose children have hidden impairments, disabilities, or Special Educational Needs has been formally recognised with the highest honour given to volunteer groups across the United Kingdom.
On Tuesday the 21st of April, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, Mrs Johanna Ropner, formally presented the WHISH organisation with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
The prestigious accolade is considered the equivalent to an MBE and serves to highlight the exceptional dedication, impact, and commitment of the charity to the lives of local families.
During the special ceremony, representatives of the charity received a crystal award and a certificate from the Lord-Lieutenant. The event brought together volunteers, supporters, and local councillors to celebrate the achievements and lasting impact of the organisation.
Those in attendance included Whitby Mayor Sandra Turner, alongside Councillor Swannick and Councillor Chance, who gathered to acknowledge the invaluable contribution the group makes to the local area. The presentation was also attended by Mrs Helen Collin DL and The Countess Charlotte Peel DL.
Speaking at the presentation, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant praised the commitment of the organisation, stating that their efforts exemplify the very best of community spirit and service.
Mrs Johanna Ropner said:
"WHISH is a gemstone in North Yorkshire."
Established in 2008, the local registered charity provides a wide range of services specifically tailored to meet the needs of children and young people residing in the Whitby and Esk Valley rural area. Through support groups and social activities for both children and adults, the organisation currently provides essential support for over two hundred children and young people.
The charity was originally founded by volunteers and continues to be run by dedicated volunteer trustees today. The organisation notes that every volunteer plays a vital role in helping them continue their daily work, and that the charity simply could not deliver its amazing range of activities without their ongoing commitment, passion, and generosity.
Steve Bremner, the Chairperson of WHISH, said:
"We are truly honoured to receive this award. It means a great deal to be recognised for helping young people and their families in our community. We share this with everyone who makes our charity what it is: our brilliant staff and volunteers, the parents who support us, and our partners and funders who believe in what we do. We can’t wait to continue helping make a positive difference to young people with disabilities."
Yvonne Harrison, the Charity Manager at WHISH, said:
"WHISH was started by a group of volunteers in 2008. I have had the pleasure of working alongside volunteers since 2011. Volunteers, whether parents/carers or people from our community who want to give their time to a worthwhile cause, are a key part of the WHISH team. Our volunteers have helped hundreds of children and their families. Without them, we would not be as successful as we are today. It is a thoroughly deserved award."
Shona, a volunteer at the charity, said:
"Working as a volunteer at WHISH is an enjoyable experience. It was wonderful to hear that WHISH has been recognised for The King’s Award, it’s an absolute honour. WHISH has become a lovely community and I couldn’t imagine our town without it."
In further recognition of their outstanding work, two volunteers from the charity will be attending a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace in May 2026.
The award stands as a celebration of community, compassion, and commitment, paying tribute to everyone who helps the group make a lasting difference to children and young people across the local area.
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