Basildon’s Carla Andrews awarded MBE in New Year Honours

Carla Andrews, the Director of local wellbeing group Motivated Minds, has been awarded an MBE for health and wellbeing in the Queen’s New Year Honours.

The government has announced the New Year Honours for 2021, recognising individuals across the country for their hard work during the pandemic.

Over the past 9 months, Carla and her team at Motivated Minds has supported the community across the Basildon borough, providing food to the hungry and supporting people’s wellbeing during a difficult time.

Motivated Minds also offers individuals across Basildon the opportunity to volunteer their time at the Happy Hub, which is based in the Eastgate Centre next to Asda. This helps socially isolated individuals to meet each other, and make friends for life.

Also receiving an MBE is Dr Mohammad Haider. Medical Director, Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Dr Haider received this accolade for services to the NHS, particularly during the Covid-19 Response and to the community in Essex.

Thurrock resident Itiola Durojaiye was awarded an MBE for her work as a diversity adviser with the government Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy

Gateway 97.8, which works with the Happy Hub and Motivated Minds, is delighted that Carla Andrews has been awarded an MBE, as recognition for her dedication to health and wellbeing.