Island disability dog charity granted Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

Isle of Wight disability charity honoured by Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. 

On a proud and emotional afternoon on Wednesday (July 11), the volunteers for Ability Dogs 4 Young People were presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Along with volunteers and supporters of the charity, the event was attended by Lady White, The High Sheriff, The chairman of the Isle of Wight Council and new patron, Charlotte Corney. There were also 250 people and over 20 Ability Dogs and puppies in training at the event.

The award was created by The Queen in 2002 to recognise excellence in voluntary activities carried out by groups in the community. It is the MBE for volunteer groups, the highest award possible for a volunteer group.

High Sheriff, Lady White at Ability Dogs 4 Young People – Credit: Ability Dogs 4 Young People

The work Ability Dogs 4 Young People does for the community was very much admired by the independent Assessment Committee. The award represents a tremendous achievement for the Isle of Wight charity.

Carol Court, founder of Ability Dogs 4 Young People said, “I can’t believe how far the charity has come in 6 years.  I started Ability Dogs 4 Young People because I saw that there was a need on the Island for assistance dogs to help disabled young people and children.

“With the help of some willing volunteers, the charity started with one puppy, called Georgie.  Other volunteers joined and from those humble beginnings, we now have 24 working Ability Dogs and 12 Ability Dog puppies in training.

“In addition, we have 10 dogs on our “Own Trained” programme, of which three are now jacketed.  Our Therapy and Team Ability Dogs between them help over 200 disabled children and youngsters a year.”

The volunteers, Lady White and their faithful pups – Credit: Ability Dogs 4 Young People

Ability Dogs 4 Young People IoW is an Island charity which trains assistance dogs to improve the lives of physically and mentally disabled young people and children on the Isle of Wight. If you think you can help by fundraising or are interested in becoming a Puppy Parent please get in touch.

Visit www.abilitydogs4yp.org.uk, email info@abilitydogs4yp.org.uk or phone 01983 216246.