AN East Cornwall charity, which aims to support veterans struggling to re-integrate into civilian life, was ‘incredibly excited’ to have been given top recognition by receiving the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services.

Callington-based Battling On was named as the recipient for one of the highest awards in the voluntary sector, after unknowingly being nominated for its work with veterans and young people.

The charity was set up to support veterans struggling to re-integrate into civilian life. Its flagship programme is the multi-award winning ‘Together We Can Succeed’ scheme, which trains veterans to be instructors and mentors to disengaged young people, aged 16 to 25, who have complex social issues and mental health disorders. Battling On offers wrap-around care and support workshops, alongside training as mentors to young people.

The charity has yet to officially receive its award, but the founding director Nikki Markham and her husband Steve attended the Queen’s Garden Party last month.

Helena Drawer, on behalf of Battling On, said: ‘I don’t know who nominated us for the award. We were informed about it several months ago when the Independent Assessment Committee, chaired by Sir Martyn Lewis, came to visit us to see what we do. We found out that we had won a couple of weeks ago but had to keep it secret until the official announcement.

‘We are incredibly excited to have won this award. It is extremely prestigious, being one of the highest awards in this sector and described as the MBE of volunteering. It is recognition of a tremendous amount of hard work put in by so many people. I hope it will help all the veterans and young people involved in the organisation to progress into the next step in their lives and encourage other veterans and young people who may be struggling to make that first step and get in touch with us.

‘While there are many people who put in a great deal of hard work for Battling On, none of it would happen without the total dedication and passion of Nikki Markham. It was her vision that started the organisation and it is her drive and commitment that has seen it succeed and grow. She always goes above and beyond, particularly in supporting those members of our society who are more vulnerable.’

The charity is due to be presented with a certificate and an English crystal by the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall on a date yet to be confirmed. It also hopes to hold a celebration at some point after the presentation to thank everyone that has given their support.