Two Healthwatch Luton Volunteers Honoured with High Sheriff’s Awards at Research Health Fair
Angela Andrews and Maureen Matthews, both long-serving volunteers with Healthwatch Luton, were presented with the awards during the event in recognition of their exceptional service listening to people’s health and social care experiences, advocating for improvements, and championing community voices that might otherwise go unheard.
The pair were volunteering at the research health fair, an event designed to connect residents with health research opportunities and local support services, when they were surprised with the honour. Their dedication to engaging with the public and supporting community health initiatives made the occasion particularly fitting.
Angela Andrews, originally from Trinidad and Tobago, brings decades of experience from her nursing and midwifery career to her voluntary work with Healthwatch Luton. She has engaged extensively with local community groups, including seldom-heard populations, helping to ensure that feedback from a broad cross-section of residents is shared with decision-makers to improve services. Her calm presence and commitment to supporting others have made her a trusted and respected figure within the town’s health and care landscape.
Maureen Matthews, whose family ties in Luton stretch back generations, has also been a cornerstone of the Healthwatch volunteer team since its early days. Her passion for listening and advocating for vulnerable residents has helped shape Healthwatch’s outreach work and ensured people feel respected and heard when raising concerns about their care experiences.
The High Sheriff’s Awards recognise individuals who make exceptional contributions to civic life through voluntary service and community engagement. The awards celebrate people whose actions reflect commitment, compassion and a strong spirit of community service.
Colleagues and attendees at the fair applauded Angela and Maureen’s achievements, describing the recognition as richly deserved and a testament to their unwavering dedication to the people of Luton.
