BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the UK received an award in the ‘Health and Wellbeing’ category at the London Dangoor Awards 2024 for the work carried out by the ‘Vadil Seva Kendra’ (Elderly Welfare Centre) in supporting the over-65s.
The London Dangoor Awards (formerly known as the London Faith & Belief Community Awards) shine a light on the unsung heroes of London’s faith communities, working with the Greater London Lieutenancy’s Council on Faith to bring connectedness and recognition to the interfaith scene in London.
This year, the ceremony welcomed Lord Wajid Khan of Burnley, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Faith, Communities, and Resettlement – more commonly known as the Faith Minister – who paid tribute to the tireless efforts of London’s diverse community groups who work to support their communities in countless ways.
The award was presented by Lord-Lieutenant Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE, who is the representative of His Majesty King Charles III in Greater London.
BAPS was commended for the comprehensive programme of services to alleviate isolation, improve physical health and mental well-being, and provide hope and joy to the elderly.
Around 80 volunteers serve more than 500 elderly residents in Brent and Croydon, ensuring that the participants can lead happy, healthy, and dignified lives. Inspired by the life and teachings of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the centres are driven by the vision that no elderly person is a burden, but a blessing. Each one is served with love, respect, and honour.
Narotam Pattani, a lead volunteer for the Vadil Seva Kendra, shared, “It is humbling to receive this award on behalf of the selfless volunteers who dedicate their personal time to ensure the senior members of our community – who have given so much of their own lives to others – can lead enriching and purposeful lives themselves.”