Graduate and local charity honoured with King’s Award for Voluntary Service

A graduate from the University of Wolverhampton and a local charity have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.  

Beth Bailey, Charity Director at Nechells POD, studied for a degree in Childhood and Family Studies and Social Policy at the University and graduated in 2019.  

Nechells POD, in Birmingham, was among 281 voluntary groups to receive The King’s Award which recognises outstanding groups who are making a big difference in their communities.  

Reflecting on the award, Beth said: “It’s a tremendous honour to receive The King's Award for Voluntary Service. This prestigious accolade is not given lightly and earning it requires significant dedication and commitment.  

“As Charity Director, it can be easy to lose sight of the profound impact that our team and volunteers have on the Nechells community every day.   

“Nechells POD is dedicated to supporting, helping, inspiring, nurturing and empowering Nechells residents to reach their full potential and shine.  

“We rely heavily on volunteers to deliver and support our full schedule of activities and adult education during term time, as well as family and children's programmes during the holidays.”  

On her time at the University, Beth reflected on her experience with fond memories and acknowledges she would not be where she is today without the support of the University.  

Beth said: “When I began my journey at the University of Wolverhampton in 2016, I was facing a challenging time. Throughout this challenging time, the support I received from my lecturers and close friends at the University acted as a crucial lifeline.  

“The mental and emotional support was invaluable, and I doubt I would’ve managed without the kindness of individuals such as Jane Booth and many others.  

“During a volunteering module, I undertook a placement at my local Citizens Advice office. This experience provided me with a comprehensive understanding of how voluntary sector organisations are managed and the competitive nature of securing funding to sustain services.  

“This insight informed the focus of my dissertation and also helped me realise that Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) was the field I wished to pursue.  

“Fortunately, I was offered the first position I applied for upon completing my degree, working as an outreach worker at a Catholic school in Nechells. In this role, I supported parents with IAG, family assistance and organised holiday activities. I also formed strong relationships with other local organisations in Nechells. I was then offered a role at Nechells POD. 

“I firmly believe had I not attended University when I did, my life would’ve taken a very different path. I’m a strong advocate for the University of Wolverhampton and would highly recommend the University to anyone considering pursuing a degree. I would encourage others to follow this route as it has been transformational in my own life.”  

To find out more about graduate success, check out the Every Story Has a Start web page which showcases our exceptional alumni across the globe doing incredible things. High achievers from the worlds of literature, business, sport, film and the arts feature, sharing how their lives and careers have developed since their days studying with us.   

For more information about the University of Wolverhampton Alumni Association and to keep in touch, please visit its webpage.   

Anyone looking for courses in the Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing and Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences, should check out the website or attend one of our forthcoming Open Days.   

Image: Beth Bailey (pictured in centre)