The chief executive of a community-inspired charity says he is “taken aback” after he was recognised as part of the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations.
Erim Metto, who leads the Turkish Cypriot Community Association, has been awarded a Platinum Champion Award.
The award was launched by the Royal Voluntary Service in honour of Her Majesty’s 70 years of service.
Mr Metto, who lives in Chingford, was nominated as recognition for his efforts supporting people during the pandemic.
After launching the association’s Covid-19 support initiative, Mr Metto organised volunteers to produce up to 800 meals a week for vulnerable people in Waltham Forest, Enfield, Haringey, and Hackney.
The elderly, those with special needs, and key workers were supported by the association’s kindness.
Other work included organising a 24 hour helpline, setting up a Whatsapp Group, creating a befriending service for 100 elderly people, before encouraging uptake of the Covid vaccine, particularly within the BAME communities.
After receiving his award, Mr Metto said: “I was taken aback when I received the letter telling me I was to receive a Platinum Award I had no idea I had even been nominated.
“I’m delighted that all the hard work the volunteers have been unselfishly dedicating towards helping the community during Covid, has been recognised.”
Erim Metto
Royal Voluntary President, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, said the awards are a celebration of “the outstanding volunteers across the country who are making a difference every day…they truly are the backbone of our country”.
A total of 490 Platinum Award winners were chosen from thousands of nominations. They received a specially designed pin and signed certificate, presented by the Duchess herself. Seventy volunteers attended a special edition of The Big Jubilee Lunch in London on June 5.
Erim Metto
In addition to his role as chief executive of the Turkish Cypriot Community Association, Mr Metto has set up a number of not-for-profit organisations to support the most vulnerable including Health Screen UK, which is a charity providing health support to the vulnerable and haven for the homeless in London.
RAaW Film and Theatre helps young people from deprived areas of London to be able to be inspired with life choices through creative arts.
https://www.guardian-series.co.uk/news/20191289.man-named-platinum-champion-charitable-efforts-pandemic/
