Usual Place co-founder Heather receives BEM

Co-founder of The Usual Place cafe in Dumfries - which continues to help young people with additional support needs - Heather Hall received her British Empire Medal in a ceremony on Thursday.

- SHARON LIPTROTT

Heather returned to The Usual Place from which she retired last year as CEO of the charity, Inspired Community Enterprise Trust, which is behind it, for the special ceremony witnessed by her family, friends, former colleagues and dignitaries as well as its young beneficiaries.

The BEM was presented by Dumfriesshire Lord Lieutenant Fiona Armstrong on behalf of King Charles, in recognition of her services to the community in Dumfries and her work at The Usual Place.

She said: “This medal belongs not just to me but to everyone who has contributed to our mission at The Usual Place. It is a reflection of the power of community - a reminder that together, we can break down barriers, open doors, and change lives for the better.”

Heather also announced that she will now become a volunteer at The Usual Place which, after a financial crisis earlier this year, has received “unprecedented support” from the local community which means that, along with a staffing restructure, now has a more financially stable future.

Supporters are being asked to join the Friends of The Usual Place and to give whatever they feel they can to support the work with young people.