Community hero

Susan Ashford from Tunbridge Wells is a Halifax Giving Extra Award winner

Susan is one of 66 local winners from across the UK in Halifax’s Giving Extra Award. She has been recognised by a local panel for her work supporting people suffering from domestic abuse.

Now in its third year, the Halifax Giving Extra Awards reward people who bring communities together and help them thrive. Charity fundraisers, sports coaches, community volunteers and many more have been recognised for the contribution they make. The Awards are an important part of Lloyds Banking Group’s ambition to help Britain prosper.

Susan has been volunteering with domestic abuse charity DAVSS since 2011. She supports victims of domestic abuse with risk assessments and personal safety plans, and goes with them to Civil Court to get protective injunctions for themselves and their children. She is passionately committed to making a positive difference to very vulnerable local people experiencing this hidden crime.

Susan said, ‘I was surprised but also delighted to win a Halifax Giving Extra Award. It was such an honour to just be nominated, so I am hugely proud to have actually won.’

Cath Creed, community ambassador for Halifax Thames & Medway, commented: ‘The work that Susan has done for the community is outstanding and truly deserves this recognition. She has truly gone the extra mile for people in our community – and we are delighted to recognise this.’

The local winners will each receive £300 in Supercheque vouchers. Each one of the 66 local winners will then be put forward to be chosen as one of Halifax’s seven regional winners. Regional winners will be announced by the end of February and will each receive £5000 to make a further difference in their community.

Russell Galley, group director, Halifax Community Bank, said: “Halifax is committed to bringing communities closer together. We believe we should give extra back to people like Susan who are pivotal to driving positive and lasting change. We are proud that Susan is one of our Halifax Giving Extra Award winners.’

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