UK’s 1000th Point of Light
1000. Kim Leadbeater
Kim Leadbeater, from Yorkshire, is the UK’s 1000th Point of Light.
Kim has responded to the tragic murder of her sister with the most extraordinary courage, determined to reject the politics of division and hate and to ensure – in her own words – that “Jo’s determination to change the world didn’t end with her murder”. From setting up the More in Common Batley and Spen group to pioneering the Great Get Together, Kim has created platforms that have brought millions of people together in their communities, forging new friendships and giving new meaning to Jo’s belief that we truly have more in common. And through the Jo Cox Foundation she has led inspiring work on so many of the issues that Jo cared about – from driving a national effort to tackle loneliness to creating the Jo Cox Memorial Grants which work internationally to support the empowerment of women and prevent identity-based violence.
In a personal letter to Kim, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“I want to congratulate you on being named the UK’s 1000th Point of Light.
“The Points of Light programme recognises outstanding volunteers who are making a real difference in their communities.
“In the face of the most terrible act that sought to divide our communities, you have rejected the hate that marked your sister’s murder to continue Jo’s work and ensure that Jo’s determination to change the world has lived on.
“I am humbled by the depth of your courage and by the strength of your belief in the best of humanity which has led you to honour Jo’s legacy in such an inspiring way.
“From setting up the More in Common Batley and Spen group to pioneering the nationwide Great Get Together, you have created platforms that have brought millions of people together in their communities, forging new friendships and giving new meaning to Jo’s belief that we truly have more in common than that which divides us.
“Through the Jo Cox Foundation you have led inspiring work on so many of the issues that Jo cared about – from driving a national effort to tackle loneliness to creating the Jo Cox Memorial Grants which work internationally to support the empowerment of women and prevent identity-based violence.
“Your work is the most fitting tribute to the memory of your sister and all that she stood for and believed in.
“Like Jo, you truly are a Point of Light in our world – and this award is a small thank you on behalf of the whole country, in recognition of your exceptional service.”
Kim said:
“It is an honour and a privilege to receive this award. Very unusually for me I’m almost lost for words.
“Quite simply, when Jo was murdered my entire life changed forever, and I am still a long way from coming to terms with what has happened.
“However, the support I have received from so many people, including the huge number of hardworking volunteers across the country who have supported The Great Get Together campaign, has kept me focused. As a result, I remain resolute in continuing the work we have all started to bring people together and build strong communities where everyone has a sense of identity and belonging.
“So, this recognition is for all those amazing people too – they are the many, many ‘points of light’ up and down the country, who will continue to shine in Jo’s memory and prove that we do indeed have ‘more in common than that which divides us’.”