We're honoured

From the Oxford Mail, first published Friday 28th Jul 2006.

Oxford's first lesbian and gay charity, run by volunteers for the past 26 years, has been presented with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

Oxford Friend is the first Lesbian and Gay Helpline to be singled out for the award, made annually by Buckingham Palace, to recognise an outstanding level of community service by volunteers.

The Queen's Oxfordshire representative, Lord Lieutenant Hugo Brunner, made the presentation to Dr Harry Dickinson, who helped set up the helpline in 1980, at an Oxford Town Hall ceremony on Wednesday, watched by about 20 volunteers, past and present Dr Dickinson, 61, from Cumnor, said: "We're honoured to receive this award. Twenty-six years ago, we never imagined that our efforts would get this kind of recognition from Buckingham Palace.

"It's a tribute to the 100 or so people from the lesbian and gay community who have volunteered over the years."

Mr Dickinson, the treasurer of the group and a Vale of White Horse district councillor, added: "Our staff of 12 were surprised and immensely honoured to learn they had received the accolade.

"The Queen's Awards were only started in 2002, so to become the first lesbian and gay group to be recognised is a huge privilege."

Based in Oxford, Oxford Friend provides confidential advice, counselling and information on lesbian, gay and bisexual issues.

Its helpline runs three nights a week and is staffed by volunteers, who offer support by phone and in one-to-one sessions.

The charity has also introduced an email counselling service, which is now bringing in requests for help and support from people in their late teens and early 20s.

Oxford Friend is one of only two Oxfordshire voluntary groups, and one of only 104 groups nationally to get the award this year.

Members of the Wychwood Project, which is based in Woodstock and aims to get people to understand and take part in work to benefit the landscapes and habitats of the former Royal Hunting Forest of Wychwood, was presented with its award by Mr Brunner last month.

Oxford Friend receives a grant from Oxford City Council, but relies heavily on donations.

Its helpline can be called on 01865 726893, from 7-9pm, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The address of the website is www.oxfordfriend.co.uk

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