Top voluntary service award for Lads Need Dads

The acclaimed Essex-based mentoring scheme scoops Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

Lads Need Dads, the innovative social enterprise based in Tendring, Essex, has been awarded the distinguished Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Founded in 2015 by Sonia Shaljean, the project supports boys aged 11-15 who are missing a father figure in their lives. Using mentoring programmes, activity days and diverse support and life-skills training, the organisation has since helped hundreds of boys towards improved mental health, better behaviour and educational attainment and, where possible, better and stronger relationships with their natural fathers.

Sonia Shaljean told Gendemic:

“In addition to feelings of intense pride, winning the Queens Award for Voluntary Services is an acknowledgement that the impact our organisation has on the lives of its boys, their families and the wider community is truly valued and recognised. Our team of male volunteer mentors contribute their time, skills, and experience but what makes our volunteers truly special is their ability to see the potential in each and every boy and their commitment to be in it for the long haul”.

For more information about Lads Need Dads, visit their website at www.ladsneeddads.org