Redditch woman presented with prestigious High Sheriff's Award

Ian Smith visited Inspire, based in Winyates Craft Centre, to present a High Sheriff’s Award to Karen Martin for the work she does for the community.

Inspire is a community-based Community Interest Company (CIC) which provides many services to local residents, including: poverty support, domestic abuse support, crisis intervention, a charity shop, a food bank, a baby bank, and a community café.

Karen was presented with a certificate and badge by the High Sheriff to commemorate the award.

Mayor of Redditch, councillor Joanna Kane, who nominated Karen for the award, said: “Karen and her team of volunteers are a shining example of the unsung heroes in our community who work tirelessly to help local people.

“They are an invaluable asset to Redditch. I am very pleased that Karen’s hard work has been recognised by the High Sheriff.”

The office of the high sheriff has origins which date back to the Saxon times, though duties have changed over the years. Now the role largely focuses on working with local crime prevention agencies, emergency services, and the voluntary sector to support crime reduction initiatives.

High sheriff of Worcestershire, Ian Smith, said: “Karen is exactly the kind of individual these awards are designed for. Through years of selfless hard work and dedication she has developed an organisation and facilities that make a huge difference to local people’s lives.”