Perth & Kinross volunteer receives Sir James Gildea Local Award

26 April 2022

Volunteers for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity in Perth & Kinross, elsewhere in Scotland, the rest of the UK, and even overseas have had their contributions recognised with the Sir James Gildea Local Award.

Major Steve Roworth – late of the Royal Regiment of Artillery – received his award at the branch’s recent AGM at Perth’s Holiday Inn from Branch President Major General Adrian Freer, formerly of 3 Para.

The awards are named after Colonel Sir James Gildea who in 1885 founded the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Families Association. It later became the Soldiers', Sailors’, and Airmen’s Families Association in 1919, before more recently becoming SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

Steve, a caseworker for the branch, was nominated for more than 10 years’ service for SSAFA. Included in his nomination is “Your willingness to help other volunteers makes you a highly valued team member, resulting in a significant difference to the lives of countless clients in your area.”

Commenting on his award, Steve said: “I am humbled by this award, and it means a lot to me to be recognised. None of us work for SSAFA for that, but when it comes, it’s lovely.”

SSAFA Perth & Kinross Branch Chairman Andy Middlemiss added: “Steve is a compassionate man, keen to help veterans in whatever way he can, following 35 years in the Army, from gunner to major.

“He has a kind heart and a deep understanding of servicemen and women, and their families, and crucially, what makes them tick.

“He is a genuinely ‘good man’; he cares, he listens, he advises, and he really spends an incredible amount of time doing what he can for SSAFA in all its guises. He is so worthy of this award, and I am also proud to count him as a good friend.”

Among the 25 or so guests attending were RAF veteran and local Armed Forces Champion Cllr Chris Aherne, and one of SSAFA’s new trustees, Alex Milner, an award-winning BBC journalist.

For more information, including how to volunteer to help SSAFA continue its work for veterans, serving personnel, and their families, visit ssafa.org.uk/perth-kinross.