The British Humanist Association’s Dialogue Officer Rory Fenton last night received the Charity Staff & Volunteers award for ‘Charity Innovator of the Year’ for his untiring work and enthusiasm in ensuring that humanists and the non-religious are represented in dialogue between people of different beliefs on a local level. The awards celebrate outstanding dedication and achievements made by charity staff and volunteers across the UK.
Over the past year Rory has been working with local humanist groups and individuals to build relationships with different belief groups and local networks in order to increase wider understanding of Humanism among religious audiences and encourage dialogue.
Congratulating Rory, BHA Chief Executive Andrew Copson said: ‘Open dialogue with different belief groups is important for social cohesion. Rory’s volunteer work not only contributes to our aim to ensure the promotion of a positive understanding of Humanism and humanists, but also to the wider pursuit of a more robust social cohesion, which is an aim shared by all people of good will.’
‘There is still much work to be done to guarantee that dialogue groups and networks are inclusive of the non-religious, and Rory’s contribution to ensuring that they reflect the range of beliefs of the people they aim to represent on a local level is vital. We are delighted that his work has been recognised in this way and encourage others to get involved in promoting understanding of Humanism locally.’
Commenting on receiving the award, Rory said, ‘I’m really happy about the award. Building understanding between people of different beliefs is deeply important and it’s great to see this work recognised.’
The ‘Charity Staff’ award event was attended by over 200 people from 80 charities across the UK held at Central Hall Westminster.
Notes
For further comment or information contact Sara Passmore, Head of Education and Promotion, at sara@humanists.uk or on 020 7079 3586.
About the Charity Staff Foundation
The Charity Staff Foundation is the only charity providing dedicated support to people who work or volunteer in the charity sector. It offers a range of free, bespoke services for charity folk including:
- support getting back into work or changing career
- a helpline providing advice and advocacy
- practical support in tackling difficulties at work
- free training to help you gain valuable new skills