NEWSROOM

Dean Allen, a Healthy Happy Active Holidays (HHAH) provider through the Cyclones Revolution Group has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King's Honours List announced in the summer.

Dean was proud to receive his British Empire Medal (BEM) from His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire, Mrs Anna Turner JP, during a ceremony at Lilleshall House, recognising his commitment to helping others and the positive impact he has made through his work with children, young people and families.

As part of his ongoing commitment to supporting local families, Dean delivered HHAH-funded sessions during October half-term through Cyclones Revolution Group, providing children and young people with opportunities to stay active, enjoy healthy meals and build confidence in a safe and supportive environment.

Dean Allen, programme provider for Cyclones Revolution Group, said: "Receiving this award has completely blown me away. In a million years, I never expected anything like this. The work I do has been recognised but I don't do it for anything in return. I used to work on a building site and took a pay cut to do what I do now because I wanted to give something back.

“My own experiences as a child inspired me to support children and families and help give people a second opportunity in life. Through after-school and holiday clubs, I've seen first-hand the difference that support can make. Whether it's providing a child with a healthy meal, a safe place to go or simply the confidence to believe in themselves, you can't put a price on that.

"It is a real honour to be recognised in this way and it's honestly overwhelming. When I got the phone call, I just kept saying 'wow'. Then the letter came through and it still didn't feel real. The whole experience has been a rollercoaster of emotions, from excitement to shock. It felt like a dream.

"I was really excited to pick up the medal and receive the recognition. Having received a letter from the Houses of Parliament and recognition from the local Lord-Lieutenant was something I never expected. I don't do what I do for awards, but actually going there and receiving the medal made it feel real and the reality sank in a bit more.

"Being invited to the King's Birthday Party at Buckingham Palace is another thing I never thought would happen. Some people can only ever dream of visiting Buckingham Palace, so it's a real privilege. My wife and I will make a day of it and enjoy the occasion.”

Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment and Skills, said: "This is a fantastic achievement and a well-deserved recognition of Dean's dedication to supporting children, young people and families across our Borough. Through his work, he has made a positive difference to countless lives, and we are incredibly proud to see his commitment recognised with this honour."

The Happy, Healthy Active Holiday programme supports the Council's child friendly vision for every child to have the best start in life by ensuring they are healthy, safe, heard and happy.

Families can find out more about the programme and future activities at: https://hhah.telford.gov.uk/.