East Lancashire Hospice volunteer honoured with national award

East Lancashire Hospice is proud to announce that longstanding volunteer and community champion, Suleman Khonat, has received the prestigious ‘Award for Excellence in Community Relations’ at the Muslim News Awards for Excellence.

The awards ceremony, which was held at the Marriott Hotel in London, celebrated individuals who have made remarkable contributions to British society, particularly within the British Muslim community. This year’s event was attended by senior political and civic leaders, including the Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, and SNP Westminster Leader, Stephen Flynn.

Suleman Khonat, a dedicated supporter of East Lancashire Hospice, has raised over £250,000 to support patients and their friends/families. Inspired by the care his late wife Rabia received at the Hospice, Suleman has become a passionate advocate for East Lancashire Hospice, increasing awareness and engagement of Hospice care within his local community.

Suleman said: "The care and attention provided by East Lancashire Hospice is unmatched. The staff and volunteers are attentive, caring, and supportive, creating a comforting environment for both the patient and their friends or families.

In addition to his fundraising efforts, Suleman has had a distinguished career in public service. He has served as a local Councillor for Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council since 2004, is a Local Magistrate and actively supports bereaved families through the Blackburn Burial Society. 

Alongside supporting East Lancashire Hospice, Suleman is also the National President of the National Federation of Retail Newsagents and is the Founding Governor of Tauheedul Islamic Girls School.

Jackie Morris, community fundraiser at East Lancashire Hospice, said: “Suleman’s tireless work has helped to raise awareness of Hospice care in communities that may not necessarily always access our services. His leadership and generosity are incredible assets to East Lancashire Hospice, and we are grateful for all he does for the hospice. 

Ahmed J Versi, founder of The Muslim News Awards for Excellence, highlighted the importance of recognising community champions such as Suleman.

He said: “The Muslim News Awards for Excellence has grown into far more than a ceremony; it is a powerful statement, a resolute response, and a vital counter-narrative to the cynical and poisonous portrayals so often weaponised. This event uplifts and reminds us that true excellence goes beyond personal success; it is about lifting others.”

This recognition is a testament to Suleman’s extraordinary contributions not only to East Lancashire Hospice but to countless individuals across Blackburn and beyond.

To learn more about East Lancashire Hospice, the services they provide and how you can support them, please visit www.eastlancshospice.org.uk