Helena Partnerships community hero award: the nominees (From St Helens Star)

Helena Partnerships community hero award: the nominees

11:09am Thursday 20th September 2012 in News

Here is the shortlist for the Helena Partnerships community hero award.

Jane Dearden

When her 21-year-old daughter Mandy was left seriously injured following a road accident on Burrows Lane in 1989, Jane Dearden was thrust into the role of carer. During the seven years that followed, before Mandy passed away, Jane, from Windle, identified the need for an organisation to provide emotional support and practical advice for adult carers Through her tireless efforts and campaigning a Carers Centre was opened in the Millennium Centre, following a successful bid to the Big Lottery Fund, ten years ago. Over the years the centre, which has helped more than 10,000 carers, grew and moved to bigger premises in Baldwin Street, where it employs 24 staff.

Janet Coy

“She is a lady who dedicates her heart and soul into making the community a better place for people to live in and for future generations to grow up in.” Those words were one line of the nomination that epitomises the selfless work mother-of-two Janet (56) does at Thatto Heath’s Perth Centre. Her role there has encompassed fundraiser, committee member and treasurer. When she is not in the centre she is attending meetings with residents or police – or grafting at community clear ups or promoting art classes.

Saints Community Development Foundation

The sporting charitable organisation might not grab the headlines of the illustrious sports team they are associated with – but the unsung role they play in local communities is immense. They work with more than 50,000 people in St Helens each year. They have a network of full-time, part-time and voluntary staff tackling topics like social inclusion, health promotion, sports coaching, anti-racism and anti-bullying.