Rekha Senapati, a volunteer at Moya Cole Hospice, has been awarded the British Citizen Award in recognition of 25 years of voluntary service to a range of charities and communities. Her work includes advocating for women from ethnic communities, supporting disabled children with complex needs, and bringing together individuals from different cultural and religious backgrounds through creative arts events.
Fundraising and community impact
Senapati has raised significant funds for Moya Cole Hospice and other health-related charities. The funds have helped acquire additional resources for patient care and improved the quality of life for patients during challenging times for them and their families.
Through her organisational and leadership skills, the Ratha Yatra has become a large-scale religious activity in Greater Manchester and the North West of England Hindu calendar, with more than 800 devotees spreading understanding of social values and cultural norms among different communities.
Artistic contributions and charitable work
Since 2004, Senapati has performed many folk, Bollywood and semi-classical dances around the United Kingdom. Her ability to sing in five different languages has seen her invited to perform at many reputable festivals. During festival times, she has arranged and donated food to provide meals for many disadvantaged homeless charities.
She said that receiving the British Citizen Award filled her with immense pride, gratitude and humility. It was an unforgettable experience that made her feel honoured to have her efforts recognised and inspired her to continue making a positive difference to her community.
About Moya Cole Hospice
Moya Cole Hospice provides holistic care to patients with life-limiting illnesses, comprising inpatient care, day therapy and supportive outpatient services from its sites at Heald Green, Stockport and Little Hulton, Salford. The teams also provide community and outreach services, including care in the place they call home via a Hospice at Home service in Salford and Trafford, the Community Specialist Palliative Care Team in Salford, and the homelessness palliative care service in Manchester.
A 24-hour telephone advice line is available to patients, carers and healthcare professionals in Salford, Manchester, Trafford and Stockport.
