Halliwell Community Alliance Receives Prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service

Halliwell Community Alliance Receives Prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service

Halliwell Community Alliance (HCA) has been recognised with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2026, one of the highest honours available to voluntary groups across the UK.

The announcement marks a significant milestone for the Halliwell-based organisation, which has grown rapidly since it was established in 2023 as a network bringing together community groups, schools, businesses, public services and faith organisations.

Originally formed to identify local priorities and encourage collaboration across the community, HCA has developed a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening community spirit and building on the positive work already taking place throughout Halliwell.

In 2025, the alliance became a formally constituted organisation and is now led by a multicultural committee of volunteers that reflects the diversity of the area. The group works closely with residents, community organisations, Greater Manchester Police, health services and local elected representatives to address local issues and support community wellbeing.

The award recognises not only the efforts of the committee but also the many volunteers who contribute their time and expertise to projects across Halliwell. Collectively, hundreds of volunteer hours have helped deliver positive change and strengthen community connections throughout the neighbourhood.

Beth Ford, Chair of the Halliwell Community Alliance and Pastor at Brownlow Fold Church of the Nazarene, said:

“We were so honoured to be nominated by our PCSO, Mervyn Fox, for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. We recognise the prestige of receiving this award and genuinely acknowledge the role of every individual who has played a part in the great work being done in Halliwell.

“The ethos of HCA is to empower people, strengthen social cohesion and inspire lasting positive change in Halliwell. I want to personally thank all committee members, past and present, who do so much across Halliwell.

“I am grateful and humbled to be part of such a wonderful group of people. This award honours all the voluntary work that goes on and is accepted on behalf of the whole of Halliwell, a place close to our hearts.”

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is widely regarded as the equivalent of an MBE for volunteer groups, celebrating organisations that make an outstanding contribution to their local communities. For Halliwell Community Alliance, the recognition highlights the impact of partnership working and the dedication of volunteers who continue to make a difference across the area.

Community leaders say the award belongs to everyone involved in making Halliwell a stronger, more connected and inclusive place to live. For further information about the 2026 awards, please access KAVS website.

We have regular public meetings and our next will be held on Wednesday 18th November 2026, at 5.30pm, at St Pauls Community Centre, Halliwell Road BL1 8BP. 

To find out more or to get involved with the Halliwell Community Alliance, please contact: Halliwellcommunityalliance@gmail.com