King Charles III has personally hosted a special thank-you reception at St James's Palace to recognise the crucial work of key local and regional government employees who serve communities throughout the United Kingdom.
Royal Recognition for Community Champions
The monarch, accompanied by Queen Camilla, the Duchess of Edinburgh, and the Duke of Gloucester, mingled with 350 specially invited guests representing a wide spectrum of essential public service roles. The event was specifically designed to acknowledge those whose work directly impacts the day-to-day lives of people across England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland.
Diverse Range of Public Service Professionals
Among those honoured at the prestigious palace reception were social workers, staff dedicated to protecting women from violence, girls' leaders, headteachers, public health specialists, and disability services coordinators. Each guest represented the vital frontline services that form the backbone of community support systems throughout the nation.
The carefully selected attendees all share the common characteristic of making tangible differences in their local areas through their dedicated public service roles.
Edinburgh's Ukraine Support Manager Recognised
One particularly notable guest was Gavin Sharp, Edinburgh Council's Ukraine support services manager, who described feeling "very proud" and "humbled" to be included among the honoured workers.
Mr Sharp plays a key leadership role in Edinburgh's response to the war in Ukraine, a responsibility that extends beyond the city's boundaries. "I think everyone in local authorities wants to help those locally," he remarked. "My role stretches wider than just Edinburgh, so it has been lovely recognition to be recognised, to be able to come down and meet the royal family like we have today."
Substantial Support for Ukrainian Community
Edinburgh, which is twinned with Kyiv, Ukraine's capital, has demonstrated remarkable resilience through its support efforts. Since 2022, the city's resilience team has assisted approximately 11,500 people affected by the conflict.
Currently, Edinburgh hosts around 3,500 Ukrainian residents, with Mr Sharp's team providing comprehensive support covering:
- Resettlement health needs
- Family reunification assistance
- Schooling arrangements
- Healthcare coordination
The reception at St James's Palace served as a powerful symbol of royal appreciation for the often-unsung heroes of local government, whose dedicated work strengthens communities and supports vulnerable residents across the United Kingdom.
