National award for domestic abuse campaigner from Banbury

Joan Bond from Banbury was one of 25 individuals recognised at the Palace of Westminster last week with a British Citizen Award (BCA) in recognition of their endeavours.

The award is now in its eighth year and recognises exceptional individuals who positively impact their communities, charities and individual causes.

Joan received the British Citizen Award for Services to Volunteering and Charitable Giving.

Despite having PTSD, Joan used her own experience to help survivors of domestic abuse and highlight the problems associated with abusive relationships.

Joan volunteered with the domestic abuse forum, gave talks to police, social workers and NHS staff, talked candidly and brought to life the realities of domestic abuse and the stigma surrounding it.

As well as raising awareness of domestic violence, she is a dedicated volunteer for Banburyshire Advice Centre and strives to help disabled people’s lives be better and more fulfilling. She also volunteered for nine years for the Samaritans and was a trainer, leader and recruitment officer, serving on the board for Banbury Samaritans.

Joan is now 77 and continues to volunteer in the community, serving The Rotary Club and Banburyshire Advice Centre and has dedicated her life to helping others, rising above her own fears and challenges to improve the lives of others.

She was presented her medal by CEO of sponsors, Objective HR, Lisa Collins, who said: “Joan is a remarkable lady who has positively channelled her traumatic experiences by selflessly giving hope, belief, confidence and closure to others in their time of personal despair. Her commitment and dedication to others is both humbling and inspirational. She is a truly special lady, who deserves this recognition and medal.”

The presentation was hosted by TV and radio presenter, Naga Munchetty. The medals were presented by senior representatives from official partner One Stop, as well as Places for People, Specsavers, Objective HR, and Big Bus London.

Following this, medalists were treated to an open top lap of honour tour taking in some of the capital’s iconic landmarks, before going on to a post-event drinks reception and certificate presentation at Church House, Westminster.