A CARE home volunteer from Malmesbury has been given a prestigious award from the British branch of the world’s oldest order of chivalry.

Sarah Cornell has received a cross of merit from the Sovereign Order of Malta in acknowledgement for her volunteer services for the Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) which runs Athelstan House.

Sarah regularly organises outings for the residents and encourages her fellow companions to host coffee mornings and tea parties.

She also helps to run fundraising events and encourages members of the community to join in.

Aaron Whitehead, OSJCT’s Assistant Operations Director in Wiltshire said: “Each year, the Sovereign Order of Malta recognises some of our finest care employees and this year is no different.

“Sarah is one of the hardest working employees within the Trust and we are delighted that she is part of our team. 

“Delivering the highest level of person-centred care is our utmost priority, and being awarded such a prestigious national award is a testament to all of the passion and dedication our team put into meeting the needs of each and every one of our residents.”

Sarah, leader of the Companions of the Order of Malta, a group of volunteers, said: “It is a great honour to receive the award on behalf of the Companions of the Order of Malta.

"There are so many companions doing things in Gloucestershire and Wiltshire so I’m just a leader of the companions. 

“OSJCT is a wonderful organisation and there is a terrific atmosphere in their homes, it is fun to be part of their team.

“The elderly give us a lot and we can learn from them. They love just having a chat.

“If anybody is interested being a companion and visiting care homes that would be wonderful. OSJCT care homes in Gloucestershire and Wiltshire are always looking for volunteers and there’s a wide range of things to help with.”

The British Association of The Order of Malta was founded in 1875. A worldwide organisation dating from the eleventh century, the Order of Malta has 12,500 members, with around 300 belonging to the British Association. 

The Order of Malta is one of the sponsoring Orders of OSJCT (the other being the Venerable Order of St John), and it provides eight of the organisation’s Trustees.

The Order’s mission is to help those in need, and OSJCT’s provision of care for older people forms part of this mission.

For more information about Athelstan House visit osjct.co.uk