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5 minute read
Ipswich Town super fan scoops volunteering award at Portman Road
Matt Roberts, PR and media advisor
Jo Davey has been named one of the housing association’s 2023 Customer and Volunteer Award winners, being presented her award in the premier suite at Portman Road.
Having moved into a Home Group supported service in 2018 following a discharge from a mental health ward, she has been constantly involved in supporting those around her and maintaining a bright, positive outlook.
Jo still struggles with her mental and physical health but has been able to use this to bring great insight to the many groups she is involved with, both at her Home Group service and in the wider community.
In nominating her for the award, which are ran nationally by the housing association, Home Group staff highlighted the incredibly friendly, bubbly, and enthusiastic personality Jo brings to everything she is involved with, despite her mental health challenges.
Just recently, Jo gave a talk about her diagnosis to students at Suffolk University as well as securing a volunteer position in a local nursing home as an activity worker supporting the residents there to participate in music therapy.
The management team at the nursing home have been so impressed with Jo’s work that, when one becomes available, they’re keen to offer her a permanent position.
In the face of multiple, debilitating health conditions, Jo has taken challenges in her stride and been giving back extensively to her community – leading to her receiving numerous nominations for her award.
In arranging the presentation of the award for Jo, it seemed only fitting to Home Group that they should give back something equally special and holding the ceremony at the home of her beloved Blues seemed perfect.
Describing winning the award, Jo said: “I was very surprised to win the award.
I felt honoured to be noticed for my achievements despite my mental and physical health
Jo Davey | Home Group customer and 2023 Customer and Volunteer winner
Becky Leonard-Dixon, Lead Engagement Adviser at Home Group said: “We are inspired by Jo’s journey and her resiliency, being able to find positivity and enthusiasm to help others even as she navigates her own mental health journey.
“She has made a huge difference in the groups she has been involved in, and in the community work she has undertaken.
“It was amazing to be able to recognise her with this award, and even more special to be able to hold the ceremony at Portman Road – a place that is hugely special to Jo, as a huge Ipswich Town fan.”