A Million Hands

597. Jack Abrey

‘A Million Hands‘ is working to mobilise half a million scouts to help four social causes. Jack and his fellow volunteers chose causes linked to dementia, disability, mental health, and clean water and sanitation, for Scouts across the UK to dedicate their time to. 

Having joined the Scouts aged 6, Jack has been a Scout leader for the past four years, along with being a #iwill ambassador and a Bloodline ambassador, all whilst studying for a geography degree at the University of Reading. 

In a personal letter to Jack, Prime Minister Theresa May said:

“Your fantastic work on ‘A Million Hands’ is mobilising half a million Scouts to volunteer and creating a vibrant community of young people whose service will have a positive impact on the UK for years to come”.

Jack said:

“I am absolutely honoured to be receiving a Points of Light award – I did not expect it in the slightest! I truly believe in the power of volunteering, social action and young people and have been lucky enough to chair the Scout Association Community Impact Group responsible for the A Million Hands Project. Throughout the project I’ve seen first hand that when we join together be it locally, nationally or internationally we are unstoppable! I’d like to dedicate this award to the hundreds of thousands of volunteers who have taken action with A Million Hands (particularly the superb Community Impact Group) and everyone across the globe who works to create positive social change.   

I hope to continue my volunteering throughout my life as we work towards a society in which creating positive change and tackling social issues head on is a part of everyday life and where young people have the power and opportunities to change the world without looming negative perceptions. Finally I’d like to thank my Mum and Paul for their limitless support which means the world to me, The Scout Association and all the wonderful charities I have the privilege to work with and to everyone who has helped and supported me along the way.”

Tim Kidd, UK Chief Commissioner of the Scouts, said:

“We are delighted to see Jack’s commitment and hard work has been recognised by the Prime Minister with a Points of Light award. The A Million hands project that Jack is chairing has transformed the way the Scout Movement is engaging with their local communities. Jack may be receiving this award but the whole team should also be credited for the success of this programme. Having been involved with the Scouts since he was six, Jack has dedicated himself to improving perceptions of Scouting and working to ensure all members can get involved in fun, practical and positive social action. We are grateful to him for all his efforts.”