22nd April 2025 – Westminster 

Karen Winspear of SENSES Wellbeing Centre in Skelton has been recognised as a community champion at a special St George’s Day celebration at No.10 Downing Street, following her nomination by Luke Myer MP.

Karen, who founded and leads SENSES, has dedicated years to supporting families, children and vulnerable individuals across East Cleveland through inclusive wellbeing programmes and vital community support. Her work has touched countless lives in the area and continues to make a powerful difference every day.

Luke Myer MP, who accompanied Karen to the event, said: “Karen represents the best of our community, someone who gives her time selflessly to support others and makes our area a better, kinder place to live. SENSES is a lifeline for so many families and I was proud to nominate Karen for this recognition. Our part of the world is full of unsung heroes and I’m glad we could shine a light on Karen’s work today.”

Reflecting on her visit to No.10, Karen Winspear said: “Walking into Downing Street and telling the Prime Minister about our work at SENSES was something I’ll never forget. I felt proud, emotional and incredibly grateful to be there. Thank you to Luke for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, it means the world to me and to everyone at SENSES.”

“This lass has come from a council estate on free school meals and jumble sale clothes. Things like this don’t happen to folk like me.”

Karen joined around 50 other community champions from across the UK, each nominated by their local MP, to mark the national day. The event celebrated grassroots leaders and the power of community spirit.

References:
SENSES Wellbeing Centre CIC is a community hub in Skelton providing support to families, children and adults with additional needs through inclusive activities and wellbeing programmes.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/Senseswellbeingcentre

Luke’s Facebook post: Here