A volunteer working with the homeless in Croydon, plus a pet dog, figured prominently in BBC Radio London’s annual Make A Difference awards last night.
Winning volunteer: Jack Percival, who runs Percy’s Homeless Hub in Croydon, receives his award from BBC presenters Riz Latif and Gaby Roslin (right)
The capital-wide awards scheme began during the covid pandemic, and has continued to recognise the dedication and hard work for others undertaken by Londoners.
Yesterday’s presentation, staged at Broadcasting House, was compered by Gaby Roslin and Eddie Nestor, and they were on hand to present Jack Percival with the Make A Difference Volunteer of the year award.
Dad of two Percival founded Percy’s Homeless Hub following his own experience of being on the streets with mental health issues. He says he established the charity in honour of a woman who looked after him when he was homeless as a teenager.
With the help of a friend and a second-hand van, they provide hot food for up to 150 on the high street in Croydon town centre every Monday. Their charity has also helped those suffering from addiction to detox.
Percival, who used to work as course manager at Chipstead Golf Club, has set up a mutual aid running group in Epsom and, in January this year, he walked from Surrey to Glasgow, more than 400 miles, to raise awareness of men’s mental health issues.
Percival, who now works full-time at the prestigious RAC golf course at Woodcote Park, has said that he considered taking his own life when he was at his lowest ebb when on the streets.
“I’m humbled to receive a BBC Make A Difference Award,” Percival said.
Ward duty: cockapoo Molly visits Mayday Hospital each week
“Two years ago I thought my story was over. I couldn’t imagine mornings, small kindnesses, or a reason to keep going.
“Now my days are filled with serving warm meals, sitting with people in the dark, and showing up even when it’s hard.
“This award isn’t the finish line, it’s proof that things can change, even when you can’t see how.”
Also among the BBC London winners announced last night was cockapoo Molly, who is used as a therapy dog for patients at Croydon’s Mayday Hospital.
Molly and her 85-year-old owner Babs visit the hospital once a week, spending time in various wards, including the children’s wing, to bring a welcome distraction from hospital life.
“Winning this has made my day, because you’re doing something useful – not just wasting your time,” Babs told BBC London.
Read more: Percy’s Homeless Hub, outside Dice Bar every Monday
Read more: South Croydon 6-year-old feeds the homeless and raises £600
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In a world which often seems full of ‘difficult’ news, it’s great to learn about amazing things that are happening nearby. Well done Jack, inspiring stuff.