Abbie, a Year 8 student at Pool Academy, has been selected as a finalist in the inaugural Benefact Charity Hero Awards.

The Benefact Charity Hero Awards are dedicated to celebrating and supporting the brilliant people who work tirelessly to change the world.

She has been shortlisted in the Volunteer of the Year category where the judges are looking for volunteers who have gone above and beyond in making a positive impact for charities and giving their time and energy to a great cause.

Abbie was nominated for her dedication over the past five years to Juvenile Arthritis Research (JIA), which is nothing short of inspiring. She is the creative mind behind the idea of ‘A Little Box of Hope’, a thoughtful information and support pack sent to children across the UK who have been diagnosed with JIA.

JIA is the most common type of arthritis in children and teenagers. It typically causes joint pain and inflammation in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows and wrists, however it may affect other body parts too.

Not only did Abbie help develop this special resource, but she also takes the time to include a personal, handwritten note with each box, offering comfort and encouragement to each recipient.

The Benefact Charity Hero Awards Ceremony will take place on November 28 at the Tower of London. Other award categories include Climate Action Project, Local Community Initiative and Charity Leader of the Year.

Nick Ward, principal at Pool Academy said: “Everyone is just delighted for Abbie regarding her nomination. At Pool Academy we are always encouraging students to support each other to help foster a sense of togetherness and it’s lovely to see Abbie embodying this approach in her volunteering work. Staff and students will be crossing their fingers for her come November 28!”