National Star resident receives royal recognition

National Star long-term resident Ben has received royal recognition for his community work. 

Ben, who lives at Foundation House in Gloucester, volunteers at a range of disability charities, including National Star. 

He was a guest of His Majesty The King at Windsor Castle at a reception to recognise those involved in community music across the UK. 

The reception included leaders of community music groups and music-related projects, many of whom are volunteers. Ben was invited by Soundabout, a UK learning disability music charity, that he volunteers with. 

Holly Radford-James, Chief Executive Officer, says Ben is a real asset to the charity. “During his time, Ben has worked as accompanist for two of our inclusive choirs,” she said. “Ben has created accessible and inclusive environments, supporting disabled and non-disabled musicians to come together and share their voices in ways that suit them. Ben’s passion, enthusiasm, and talent have inspired the young musicians he supports.”    

Ben, who took his parents Anna and David to the reception, said: “This was a very special and inspiring event and I was delighted to be invited by Soundabout to join them at this celebration of community music.  

“I was introduced to His Majesty The King who heard about the work of Soundabout, supporting choirs of all abilities and ages. The King also commented that my wheelchair was fantastic as it could raise up and down!”   

Ben, who is a former National Star student, plays a LinnStrument, a keyboard that can be played by a light press. He has also volunteered with charity Drake Music at The Beacon in Bristol. 

“Ben has been attending our Platform sessions for some time and is an important member of the group,” said Louise Betts, Project Manager.  

“His talented keyboard playing a vital part of the group. Through his playing, Ben supports other participants and the music leaders to perform their compositions of new and existing songs.  

“Platform music sessions offer disabled people opportunities to come together and make music, explore traditional instruments and assistive music technology and socialise with other people.” 

Ben also finds times to volunteer several times a week at National Star. He accompanies student players in OrcheStar and supports samba drumming. He has also joined a National Star group working with The Everyman Theatre, sharing his experience of drama. “Ben is a gifted musician and a willing accomplice to me in sessions,” says Paul Tarling, Community Engagement & Curriculum Co-ordinator at National Star. “He brings an understanding of the student experience and shares this by actively taking part and role modelling for others.”