by Rebecca Hannant
RUBEN’S Voice founder Katy Smith has been named among the winners at the latest East Riding Council Chairman’s Awards.
On Tuesday, May 13, the council held its annual Chairman’s Awards, celebrating local individuals, charities, organisations and businesses who have worked hard in their communities over the past year.
Katy Smith, founder of the Hedon-based non-profit organisation, won in the Individual category of the Community section for her commitment to raising awareness of mental health and suicide.
Katy set up the organisation in memory of her son, Ruben Ferrol, who took his own life in April 2021, aged just 18. Ruben was described as a popular teenager who was loved by his family and wide circle of friends – but he did not speak out about his mental health, nor seek any support.
Following his death, his friends and family raised money to place a bench in Hedon and host a party in his memory.
After the event, supporters continued to raise funds, and Katy saw an opportunity to help others who may be struggling by setting up the organisation to ensure people in the area have access to activities that improve their mental health and signpost them to services.
The main aim of Ruben’s Voice is to provide a space that helps prevent mental health issues before they arise, by encouraging people to engage with their community and take part in a range of activities.
Using its dedicated Ruben’s Voice Wellbeing Hub on the Draper’s Lane field, the organisation has organised a wide range of events tailored to children, young people and adults – including fundraisers, arts and crafts classes, and wellbeing-based support groups.
Most recently, it hosted a Lego walk and firewalk on the Draper’s Lane field.
The organisation has also been supported by many businesses across Hedon that have helped it grow by providing materials, support and services free of charge.
Katy said: “This award is really for our amazing community because Ruben’s Voice wouldn’t be anything without everyone’s support. I can’t make any difference on my own. I can’t wait to take the award to the hub tomorrow and share it with everyone.
“Thank you, also, Mrs Barnett from Hedon Primary School for nominating me. She has been a massive support to both Ruben’s Voice and to our family. And thank you, Linda Bayram and East Riding Council for choosing us.”
Former Hedon mayor Cllr Colin Billany, who also supported the cause and took part in the firewalk on Sunday, April 13, added: “Katy Smith is a person dealing with the loss of a son, by putting her energy and positivity into trying to prevent other people going through what she has gone through losing Ruben.
“Her enthusiasm in her role is infectious as it made me do something that I wasn’t expecting to do, like walking on fire! Katy deserves a lot of awards for doing what she does.”
Also winning an award was Skirlaugh-based Lazy Bean, which won the Business award for firms with up to 50 employees.
Caroline Rawson, owner of Lazy Bean, said: “We’re truly grateful to receive the Chairman’s Award for Small Business under 50 employees.
“This means a lot to us, and it reflects the heart and effort our whole team puts in every single day to support our customers and community.
“Being a small business comes with its fair share of challenges, but it also gives us the chance to build close connections and lead with purpose. This award is a reminder that what we’re doing matters – not just in terms of growth, but in the way we care for the people around us.
“A big thank you to the chairman and the selection committee for this honour. We’re motivated more than ever to continue creating a hub for our village, helping where we can, and staying committed to building a stronger, more connected community.
“Thanks for believing in us – and in the impact small businesses can have.”
Cllr Linda Bayram, chairman of East Riding Council, said: “Reaching the 25th anniversary of the Chairman’s Awards is a proud and inspiring moment for East Riding Council. For a quarter of a century, we’ve had the privilege of honouring the remarkable individuals, businesses, and projects that breathe life into our communities.
“This year’s winners exemplify the values of sustainability, community spirit, and local pride that make the East Riding such a special place to live and work.
“Congratulations to all our award recipients – you are the heart of our region.”