A PEMBROKESHIRE charity supporting vulnerable young people has received one of the highest honours in the UK for voluntary work.

Megan’s Starr Foundation, based in Milford Haven, has been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service — widely regarded as the MBE for charities — in recognition of its outstanding impact in the community.

The award was formally presented during a special event held at The Dizzy Bear, the charity’s base, where much of its day-to-day work supporting young people takes place.

The ceremony brought together community leaders, dignitaries, volunteers and young people who have all played a part in the charity’s journey.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest accolade given to local volunteer groups across the UK, recognising exceptional service and lasting benefit within communities.

Megan’s Starr Foundation was established following personal tragedy, with a mission to ensure that no young person feels alone or overlooked. Since its creation, the organisation has grown into a vital support network for young people across Pembrokeshire, offering guidance, understanding and a safe space to rebuild confidence.

Speaking at the event, representatives of the foundation said the award belonged not just to the organisation, but to everyone connected to it.

“This recognition is for every young person who has walked through our doors when they felt they had nowhere else to go,” a spokesperson said.

“It is for every parent who trusted us at their lowest moment, and for every volunteer who has given their time and compassion to support others.”

They added that while the charity was born from heartbreak, it has been driven by a determination to create something meaningful and lasting for the community.

The award presentation was attended by local dignitaries including representatives of the Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff, who praised the foundation’s commitment to supporting young people and strengthening the community.

The Herald understands that the foundation’s work has already had a significant impact across the county, with increasing demand for its services as more young people seek support.

The setting of the ceremony — within The Dizzy Bear itself — served as a powerful reminder of the charity’s purpose, with many of those present having directly experienced its support.

For those involved, the recognition marks both a milestone and a motivation to continue.

“This is more than an award,” the spokesperson added. “It is a reminder of why we started — and why we will never stop.”

MILFORD HAVEN ROUND TABLE welcomed representatives from the Paul Sartori Foundation for an evening of discussion, awareness and community support earlier this month.

The event, held at the Lord Nelson Hotel on Wednesday (Mar 11), brought together 19 Round Table members alongside Rosie-Faye Hart, Community Relationship Officer, and Mandy Jones, Future Care Planning Officer.

Members heard an informative and engaging presentation from the charity team, focusing on the importance of planning ahead and supporting those with life-limiting illness.

Mandy Jones spoke about future care planning, encouraging early conversations and explaining key aspects such as Power of Attorney and setting out personal care wishes. She helped simplify what can often be seen as a complex and difficult subject.

Rosie-Faye Hart highlighted the vital role community fundraising plays in sustaining the charity’s work across Pembrokeshire, thanking groups such as the Round Table for their continued support.

The presentation was warmly received, with members showing strong interest in the Foundation’s work. At the end of the evening, Milford Haven Round Table made a donation of £250 to support the charity’s ongoing services.

The meeting has already led to further opportunities. Following the talk, Mandy Jones was invited by Adrian Cook, Engagement Officer at South Hook LNG, to deliver a session for staff as part of an upcoming wellbeing event.

The evening demonstrated how local organisations can work together to raise awareness, encourage important conversations, and support vital services within the community.

Groups interested in arranging a talk or supporting the charity can contact Rosie-Faye Hart on 07854 684171 or via email at [email protected]
.

Charity backs greyhound racing ban and pushes for tougher laws on pet theft and exotic animals

The RSPCA has welcomed parts of Welsh Labour’s 2026 Senedd election manifesto, while urging politicians to go further to improve animal welfare across Wales.

Responding to the manifesto’s launch on Monday (Mar 30), Billie-Jade Thomas, Senior Public Affairs Manager for RSPCA Cymru, said the charity was encouraged by several proposed measures but stressed that more action is needed.

Greyhound racing

The charity reiterated its long-standing campaign to ban greyhound racing, calling for the industry to be phased out as soon as possible.

Thomas said: “Greyhound racing is inherently dangerous. The industry’s own data shows thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths in recent years. That level of suffering, purely for entertainment, is unacceptable.”

Cat microchipping

The RSPCA backed plans to introduce mandatory microchipping for cats, saying it would help reunite lost or stolen pets with their owners and reduce the number of abandoned animals.

The charity also said the move would bring Wales in line with England and improve traceability for rescue centres handling stray animals.

Animal welfare establishments

Concerns were raised about the lack of regulation for animal sanctuaries and welfare establishments.

Thomas said RSPCA officers frequently encounter cases where poor governance, financial problems, and overcapacity lead to welfare issues.

She added: “There is a clear need for proper oversight and regulation in this sector.”

Exotic pets

The charity welcomed proposals to regulate the keeping of exotic pets, warning that many species have complex needs that are difficult to meet in domestic environments.

Better regulation, it said, could improve welfare for animals such as reptiles and birds.

Statutory powers

The RSPCA is also calling for its inspectors to be given statutory powers, arguing this would allow them to deal with animal cruelty cases more effectively and reduce pressure on public services.

Pet theft

The charity renewed its call for tougher laws on pet theft, arguing that current legislation fails to reflect the emotional impact on owners.

Thomas said: “Pets are family members. It is not appropriate that stealing a dog or cat is treated the same as stealing a mobile phone.”

Wildlife and bovine TB

On wildlife policy, the RSPCA said it supports measures to tackle bovine tuberculosis through cattle-based approaches rather than culling badgers.

Wales ‘leading on animal care’

The charity also pointed to its Animal Kindness Index, which suggests Wales has the highest proportion of animal lovers in the UK.

Thomas added: “There is still much more that can be done to ensure a good life for every animal in Wales. We want to see all political parties set out clear plans ahead of the Senedd election.”

The Senedd election is due to take place in May 2026.