TWO WOMEN – both from Kempsey – are among six Worcestershire residents to receive awards in King Charles III’s first Birthday Honours.
Prof Joanne Smith (Norton), a Professor of Early Intervention and Psychosis at University of Worcester, has been made an OBE for services to Higher Education and student suicide prevention and response.
And Suzanne Oldnall has been awarded a BEM for service to Victims of Domestic Abuse.
Prof Smith said: “I was so touched and honoured to be nominated and awarded an OBE for my work in student suicide prevention over the last decade.
“I would like to thank many colleagues who helped to progress our ‘Suicide Safer’ Initiative locally at the University of Worcester and those who have worked with me at a national level to produce better data, research and guidance to improve awareness and practice in efforts to prevent further student deaths in Higher and Further Education.”
Ms Oldnall added: “I am both honoured and humbled to have received such a prestigious award in recognition of my work with victims of domestic abuse.
“I will continue in my quest to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the devastating impact it has on, often vulnerable victims and their children.
“I would like to think that this award represents victims and gives them the strength to say, ‘enough is enough’ and reach out for help to the amazing Agencies within the Worcestershire area, to ultimately achieve a safer life.”
Other Worcestershire awards
Also rewarded in the Birthday Honours were:
Serafina Ventura received an MBE for services to Cyber Security and diversity and inclusion.
Royston Starkey has received a BEM for Mineralogy.
A CBE has also been awarded to Dr Susan Ibbotson for services to Public Health.
Clifford Robson, from Evesham, was recognised with a CBE for services to the Defence Industry.
‘People recognised are really making a difference’
Beatrice Grant, Lord-Lieutenant of Worcestershire said: “Each year, The King recognises the extraordinary achievements of people from all walks of life, and all ages, within our communities.
“These are people who really make a difference to the lives of those around them, either voluntarily or in their field of work.
“I send my sincere congratulations to the six outstanding local individuals who have been honoured.”
How to nominate
Anyone can nominate someone to receive a National Honour. The honours system recognises people who have made achievements in public life and committed themselves to serving and helping Britain.
For more information, on nominating someone to receive an honour, visit www.gov.uk/honours
