Nottinghamshire charity Hetty's wins Prime Minister's Award
Hetty's has won Prime Minister David Cameron's Big Society Award for supporting families affected by drug or alcohol misuse.
Hetty’s, a dedicated Nottinghamshire Charity which has provided emotional and practical support to thousands of families affected by drug or alcohol misuse, has been recognised by Prime Minister David Cameron with a Big Society Award.
The group was set up in 1996 by a group of mums who themselves have been affected by a loved one’s drug misuse. Through their passion and determination to support others in situations similar to themselves, Hetty’s has grown into a unique organisation now run by over 30 volunteers and 9 staff.
The team of volunteers and staff are in contact with up to 300 people each month through a confidential freephone support line, face to face sessions within a family’s home, peer support groups and educational workshops as well as a text service for families who may find it difficult to talk about their situation.
Hetty’s unique ‘Kinship Care’ programme provides emotional and financial support for extended family carer’s of children who have to live away from the parental home. Families are assigned a Kinship Care Worker who offers support in a time where the extended family may feel they have no one left to turn to.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
This remarkable group of parents are providing support and friendship to families going through incredibly challenging times. I want to congratulate everyone involved in Hetty’s – they are thoroughly deserving of this Big Society Award.
Debbie Knowles said:
On behalf of Hetty’s, the thousands of families we have supported over the years and above all, the drive, passion and dedication of the staff and volunteers, it is a privilege and honour to accept such a national award. Thank you.
Case study: Kinship Carers – keeping children out of the care system
Without the help of Hetty’s we as a family honestly believe that our 2 young grandchildren would have been in care, but with their help and advice for us as a family they cared and looked after us. They had the time to listen and advise us on what to do and who to see. We still have weekly and monthly meetings. Not only have they helped us through a very, very stressful time but helped and been there for both of the grandchildren, for which we are very grateful. We are sure without the help of Hetty’s our lives would have been very difficult.