Niemann-Pick UK (NPUK), a small national charity based in Tyne and Wear, has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service – the highest recognition given to local voluntary groups in the UK, and equivalent to an MBE.
NPUK supports individuals and families affected by Niemann-Pick diseases, a group of rare, life-limiting, genetic conditions. For over three decades, the charity has provided practical and emotional support, advocacy and information, bringing hope and uniting a community which often feels isolated by the rarity of these devastating conditions.
Receiving The King’s Award for Voluntary Services is an extraordinary honour, and an acknowledgement of the hundreds of volunteers, families, and supporters who have made the charity’s work possible across the years; from fundraising and awareness-raising to peer support, mentoring, and campaigning for better care and treatments.
NPUK is one of 232 local charities, social enterprises and volunteer groups across the UK to be recognised this year. Each one highlights the power of community action and the remarkable ways volunteers make life better for those around them.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service was established in 2002 to mark Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and continues under His Majesty The King, recognising outstanding voluntary work that strengthens local and national life. 2025 marks the third year of the Award in its current form.
Representatives of NPUK will receive the award crystal and certificate from Ms. Lucy Winskell, OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, in the coming months. In addition, two of the charity’s volunteers will attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in 2026, alongside other recipients from across the UK.
A message from the Charity
Toni Mathieson, CEO of NPUK, commented:
“…we are deeply honoured to receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This recognition belongs to our incredible volunteers, whose compassion and commitment are at the heart of everything we do. Their tireless efforts bring hope, comfort, and connection to families affected by Niemann-Pick diseases across the UK.
Our community may be small, but its spirit is extraordinary. This award is proof that even the smallest voices can make a big difference when they come together.
On behalf of our entire community, I thank every volunteer past and present — this award is a tribute to each of you and the difference you make every single day.”