York charity nominated for Service With A Smile award (From York Press)

York charity nominated for Service With A Smile award

8:40am Friday 30th March 2012 in News By Kate Liptrot, kate.liptrot@thepress.co.uk

A YORK charity which works with people recovering from mental health problems has been nominated for a Community Pride award.

While undergoing the challenging merger of Our Celebration and York and District Mind and facing the threat of cuts to funding this year, the charity continued to offer outstanding support to clients and “some of the most disadvantaged people in York”.

Nominating York Mind in the Service With A Smile category, a person who asked not to be named, said throughout a challenging year, the staff had continued to deliver “high-quality services”, remaining positive and helpful. “Everything they do is about putting the individual first and helping them to recover and regain control over their own life.

“This year marks the 60th anniversary of York Mind and the work they’ve been doing for the people of York and the city as a whole. I think it would be really nice for the city to formally acknowledge the charity’s past and ongoing work, with a community pride award.”

The Clifton-based charity, one of Lord Mayor Coun David Horton’s designated charities, works to support clients and to tackle the daunting problems of social exclusion facing people with mental health problems.

David Smith, York Mind chief executive, said: “I am absolutely delighted we have been nominated for this award and for the work of the team and the volunteers here to have been recognised so publicly.”

Meanwhile, a York artisan bakery famed for serving tasty homemade food has also been nominated in the Service With A Smile category.

Tarts & Titbits, in Gillygate, which opened six years ago, was nominated in the Service With A Smile category by Bethany Rex, who said: “It is the great and good of the delicatessen. From the product to the presentation, to the customer service and delivery, they strive to give their customers the best experience possible. Tarts & Titbits breaks the mould by offering good conversation, excellent food and positive vibes.”

Phil Black, owner, said: “We are ecstatic to be nominated. Customer service and support of the local community is part of what Tarts & Titbits is all about. We are tickled pink.”

The Community Pride Awards, which will have a York 800 theme this year, are run in partnership with City of York Council and sponsored by Benenden Healthcare.