Mal Hampson has received the Jean Mulford Special Achievement Award at the Halton and St Helens VCA Volunteer Awards 2026, recognising more than four decades of dedication to arts, culture and inclusion.
The award celebrates individuals whose commitment, vision and leadership have left a lasting legacy within their communities. Mal's work has created opportunities for generations of children and young people to develop their talents, build confidence and discover their potential.
Long before Halton's Year of Culture was imagined, Mal was creating opportunities for young people to perform, belong, grow and thrive.
Through the organisation she founded, she has developed a safe, welcoming and fully inclusive environment where every young person, regardless of ability or background, is encouraged to achieve their best.
Her impact can be seen not only in performances, awards and qualifications, but in the thousands of young lives she has influenced, the confidence she has nurtured, the friendships she has helped create and the barriers she has helped young people overcome.
The nomination highlighted the profound difference Mal makes by recognising each child's potential and helping them develop the communication skills, resilience and self-belief they can carry into education, employment and adult life.
For many young people, the confidence gained through their involvement has extended far beyond the stage. The opportunity to participate, express themselves and feel included has helped them flourish in other areas of their lives.
The award was presented by Sally Yeoman MBE, Chief Executive of Halton and St Helens VCA, during the ceremony at The Heath in Runcorn.
The award is named in honour of Jean Mulford, a lifelong champion of volunteering who dedicated more than 25 years to chairing Halton and St Helens VCA and whose legacy continues to inspire community service.
Mal's recognition reflects that same spirit of commitment to others and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to participate, develop and succeed.
Halton and St Helens VCA congratulates Mal on this richly deserved honour and thanks her for the lasting difference she has made to young people and the wider community.