What is the QAVS?
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s Golden Jubilee. Recipients are announced each year on 2nd June, the anniversary of The Queen’s Coronation.
Equivalent to an MBE, QAVS are the highest awards given to local voluntary groups in the UK, and they are awarded for life.

PCrefurb is one of 244 local charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award in 2022. Their work reminds us of all the ways in which dedicated volunteers are contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them.
How did PCrefurb receive this honour?
12th September 2021
PCrefurb was nominated by David Brereton, MD of Myson Pages, with letters of support from Ian Maddison (Commissioning Communities and Policy Derbyshire County Council), Vicky Bunnage (CEO Crossroads Derbyshire) and Alison Bowry (Programme Manager, High Peak Community Arts).

September 2021
Eligibility of submitted nominations was checked.
17th November 2021
The due diligence process began, Mrs Dianne Jeffrey CBE DL visited PCrefurb on behalf of the Derbyshire Lieutenancy. Months of scrutiny then took place to create a comprehensive picture of the work of the charity.

February – mid March 2022
National Assessors considered recommended groups and decided on a shortlist.
April 2022
Royal approval of shortlisted groups.
2nd June 2022
Awards officially announced in The Gazette, GOV.UK and on the QAVS website.

28th September 2022
HM Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs. Elizabeth Fothergill CBE presented Russell Gard, Deputy Chair of PCrefurb, with the Crystal Award. Deputy-Lieutenant Mrs. Jackie Bird MBE DL presented Mary Jessop, founding Trustee (retired), with the signed certificate.
May 2023
Two representatives from the awarded groups to attend a Royal Garden Party.

Related articles
QAVS announcement – press release
PCrefurb celebrates!