Journey of a Lifetime
760. Simon Gruselle
761. Andy Lowe
Simon Gruselle and Andy Lowe, from Hertfordshire, are the driving force behind the Journey of a Lifetime Trust.
The organisation sends disadvantaged young people on life-changing, empowering trips abroad. They ensure the safety of each cohort of 20-25 young people, who often have disabling medical conditions, by involving their medical professionals and carers in the planning and discussion. This support enables the participants to experience travel that builds their confidence and resilience, encouraging them to overcome the real and perceived barriers that are placed before them as they approach adulthood, and to realise that by working together they can achieve amazing things and take control of their future. The Trust runs a month-long trip every two years and since the charity started in 1983, they have taken hundreds of young people to places all over the world.
Simon and Andy are the latest recipients of the Points of Light award which recognises outstanding volunteers who are making a change in their community and inspiring others. Each day, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements.
In a personal letter to Simon and Andy, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Together, through the Journey of a Lifetime Trust you are sending hundreds of disadvantaged young people on life-changing and empowering trips all over the world. You should be proud of how the Trust is building the confidence and resilience of these cohorts, and encouraging them to raise their aspirations for the future.”
Simon and Andy’s local Member of Parliament, Maria Caulfield MP, said:
“I welcome the recognition of Journey of a Lifetime Trust, which makes such a difference to so many young people; giving them opportunities and experiences which truly changes their lives. The dedication of people like Simon and Andy are what keep charities going like Journey of a Lifetime Trust going and without their hard work many young people would not have had the life changing experiences through the Trust.”
Simon and Andy said:
“We are very pleased to accept this award on behalf of the Journey of a Lifetime Trust trustees, leaders and countless others who contribute their time and skills to provide these life changing journeys. We are proud to continue the work of Dorothy Dalton who founded the charity in 1983 and who has been such an inspiration to everyone connected with Journey of a Lifetime Trust.”