Lyme Regis: Deaf woman receives award for volunteer work (From Bridport and Lyme Regis News)
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Lyme Regis: Deaf woman receives award for volunteer work
10:00am Thursday 28th June 2012 in Lyme Regis By Anne Bell
TIRELESS: Ruth Bizley gets her award from Stephanie Bromley
A PROFOUNDLY deaf Lyme Regis woman has been honoured for her work in supporting other deaf and hard of hearing people in the area.
Ruth Bizley, 45, was presented with the national charity Action on Hearing Loss Regional Champion of the Brand award for volunteers.
The award recognises Ruth’s “tireless commitment” to supporting people in the region by hosting comprehensive information stands and talks.
Despite her profound deafness she has additionally shown energy and determination to qualify as a lipreading instructor, running classes in Dorset where there is a severe shortage, says the organisation.
Joining other volunteers at a regional awards ceremony at Mount St Mary’s Convent in Exeter, Ruth was presented with a trophy and certificate to celebrate her outstanding achievement.
Ruth said: “Volunteering with Action on Hearing Loss is always enjoyable and it’s tremendously rewarding being able to help improve the lives of deaf and hard of hearing people in my local area.
“I feel honoured to have been given this award and to have helped such a worthwhile charity make a real difference."
Action on Hearing Loss head of volunteering development Jane Bailey said: “Volunteers form the very lifeblood of Action on Hearing Loss and we wouldn’t be the charity we are today without them.
“We are delighted to recognise the endless enthusiasm and inspiring work Ruth has shown.
“These star volunteers not only show their commitment in dedicating their valuable time, but they bring a diverse range of skills and boundless energy that are so vital to our success.
“We have been running the formal volunteer awards programme since 2010 and there have been some 123 region and national award winners since we started.”
Action on Hearing Loss is currently seeking volunteers for a wide range of activities, such as fundraising, support for hearing aid wearers and outreach information.
For information about current opportunities, contact John McCormack on 01752 228657 or email john.mccorm ack@hearingloss.org.uk
