Lawrence Walker Awards

AWARD FOR FOSTERING INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES 

A CHARITY has been given an award in honour of its “impactful work” in the community. 

Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST) has been presented with a Lawrence Walker Award from African Families in the UK (AFIUK). 

Representatives from AFIUK handed the award, along with a special homemade cake, to staff at CVST’s head office in Imperial House, Clacton. 

Community ambassador Victoria Oyekunle, from AFIUK, said: “This award celebrates the outstanding collaboration between AFIUK and CVST through the impactful work at the Clacton Afro-Caribbean Drop-In, fostering stronger and more inclusive communities. 

“The award is named in honour of Lawrence Walker, a legend who passed away in February 2023. 

“Lawrence was the Chairman of Black History Month Colchester and led a groundbreaking project on suicide prevention among Black men, funded by CVST.  

“His visionary leadership continues to inspire, and we launched the Lawrence Walker Awards in October 2023 to preserve his remarkable legacy.” 

CVST has been working with AFIUK running an Afro-Caribbean Drop-in session in Clacton since early last year. 

The sessions at the Pier Avenue Baptist Church aim to help residents share in friendship and support. 

Brenda Ellis, CVST chairman, said: “We were honoured to receive the lovely award from AFIUK. 

“Bringing together people in our community is hugely important to us. 

“And we are incredibly proud to have been a part of the success of the Afro-Caribbean Drop-in Sessions.” 

Lawrence Walker devoted his life to campaigning for racial equality, diversity and education. 

The awards were launched as a way to preserve his legacy and celebrate the achievements of others working to make communities more inclusive. 

For more information about CVST visit www.cvstendring.or.uk.