The William Temple Foundation is delighted to congratulate Foundation Trustee Revd Dr Paul Monk for this honour awarded to “Barnabas Thrive” in the Parish of St Barnabas in Clarksfield, Oldham. Revd Monk has been Vicar of the parish during the period that Barnabas Thrive has been developed. We are proud to be able to recognise this service to the community and to congratulate all involved on this honour.
Revd Monk has said,
“Please allow me to put on my record my huge thanks to everyone who has made it all possible“
Simon Lee, chair of the trustees of the William Temple Foundation, has said,
“This is a shining example of faith communities making a difference at grassroots level. It also shows how recognition can inspire others to take such initiatives. All this is in the spirit of our Foundation and we are in awe of Barnabas Thrive and the quiet encouragement, drive and support offered by Revd Paul Monk“.
The full press release regards this award can be read below
HM the King recognises the work of St Barnabas Church in Clarksfield, Oldham
“St Barnabas is St Barnabas Church in Clarksfield has been honoured with the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) in recognition of its transformative community project, ‘Barnabas Thrive’. Often described as the MBE for organisations dedicated to volunteer-led community service, the KAVS award celebrates the efforts of those who work to improve the lives of local communities. Barnabas Thrive operates in the deprived Clarksfield area of Oldham, offering a range of initiatives designed to uplift and support the community. The project focuses on four key areas:
1. Food Thrive – This initiative runs a thriving community-led food pantry which serves up to 200 local residents each week, helping to tackle food poverty and the higher cost of living.
2. Holiday Thrive – Addressing the issue of ‘holiday hunger’. This programme provides essential meals and activities for children and their families during school breaks, offering a welcoming space for everyone who walks through the door.
3. Women Thrive – A supportive and safe space where local women—many of whom have faced hardship such as abusive relationships or health struggles—come together to connect, share experiences, and support one another. The group is peer-led, ensuring it is shaped by the needs of those who attend.
4. Teen Thrive – A small but impactful free gym for young people with mental health challenges, providing a healthy outlet and sense of community. This space is also open to the wider public, promoting physical and mental well-being for all.
In addition to these programmes, the church and its community halls also serve as hubs for a wide range of activities that create connection and mutual support. The Barnabas Thrive project is made possible thanks to strong partnerships with organisations such as the National Lottery, Diocese of Manchester, Fareshare, Action Together, Oldham Council, and various local community groups. This award is a testament to the incredible work being done by volunteers and partners, whose dedication makes Barnabas Thrive a vital resource for the Clarksfield community.
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