Focus4Hope volunteer John Gibbons, from Crossgates in Leeds, has scooped a top award at the Yorkshire Choice awards. Now in their 10th year, the awards honour the people, community groups and organisations making a positive impact in Yorkshire, celebrating resilience, kindness, and community spirit.

John runs his own plumbing business in Leeds but has been volunteering with the charity for five years. He collects donations from across West Yorkshire, as well as recycling abandoned tents and sleeping bags from events like Leeds Festival which can then be used by people who are sleeping rough. He’s also present at many of the charity’s homeless feeds where he distributes essentials.

John was typically modest when referring to his win: “While I’m very grateful to be awarded Volunteer of the Year, my motivation is to make sure our most vulnerable people have a bit of shelter and safety and someone to turn to. The world feels increasingly tough right now and I just want to do my bit to help”.

Louise is thrilled that John has his moment in the spotlight: “John’s a vital part of our team and we can’t thank him - and all of our volunteers - enough. He has a unique ability to connect with people in the darkest moments, listening without judgment. No task is too big or too small and if someone’s in crisis he’s there, showing genuine compassion and offering reassurance. For many he’s not just a volunteer - he’s a friend when they have no one else."

Focus4Hope was originally created as a community organisation but became a registered charity so it could respond to the rapid demand associated with the rising cost of living. It offers a range of services in a bid to avoid individuals reaching crisis point, including food distribution, advice and guidance, and a low-cost food market.