A mental health support organisation founded as a result of a family tragedy has received the honour of a King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Megan’s Starr Foundation received the prestigious accolade for its important work in supporting young people with mental health issues in Milford Haven and across Pembrokeshire.
Nicola Harteveld set up the foundation in the wake of the death of her daughter Megan, who sadly took her own life in 2017 after struggling with her mental health.
Nicola’s strength in supporting others despite the tragic events has been recognised by the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards joined Nicola, her family, and Megan’s Starr volunteers to present the award at the Dizzy Bear Café on Milford Haven Waterfront on Monday, 30th March.
Deputy Lord Lieutenant Dr Chris Martin gave the opening address, and the High Sheriff of Dyfed, Mr Andew Phillips was also in attendance as well as the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet Aeron James.
Nicola said: “We are incredibly proud to share that Megan’s Starr Foundation has been honoured with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2025.
“This prestigious national honour reflects the dedication, compassion, and tireless commitment of our incredible volunteers, who give their time and energy to support young people through some of life’s toughest challenges.
“And most of all, it belongs to Megan, whose beauty, kindness, and love lives on in everything we do.”
The Lord Lieutenant added: “It was a pleasure to present the King’s Award for Voluntary Service to a truly deserving group of volunteers. The work Nicola and the Megan’s Starr Foundation do has an important impact on the area’s young people and they should be extremely proud.”
Equivalent to an MBE, the King’s Award for Voluntary Services is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK, and they are awarded for life.
For 2025, Megan’s Starr was one of just five organisations in Wales to receive the Award.
Created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and previously known as The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the Award has been shining a light on the fantastic work of voluntary groups from all across the UK for many years.
