Community Champion Joanna Balgarnie Surprised Live On Air with Prestigious High Sheriff Award

A Bath volunteer whose work has touched countless lives across Somerset has been recognised with a prestigious High Sheriff of Somerset Award.

Joanna Balgarnie was presented with the honour during a surprise appearance on a live lunchtime radio programme after being invited into the studio under the impression she was attending an interview about her community work.

What Joanna did not know was that the High Sheriff of Somerset, Peter Dixon, and former Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford were waiting to present the award in person.

The recognition celebrates Joanna’s longstanding commitment to supporting others through volunteering, leadership and advocacy across a number of organisations and initiatives.

For more than nine years, Joanna has volunteered with the Samaritans, providing support to people experiencing crisis, loneliness and emotional distress. Alongside her frontline role, she has also held leadership responsibilities within the Bath branch, helping to support the continued delivery of the charity’s services.

Drawing on her own experiences, Joanna also helped establish SCA-UK, a national charity supporting survivors of sudden cardiac arrest and their families. The organisation provides peer support, practical guidance and encouragement to people adjusting to life after a major cardiac event.

Her commitment to community service extends into local broadcasting through her involvement with Warminster Community Radio, where she helps connect listeners with local stories, information and community issues.

Presenting the award, High Sheriff Peter Dixon praised Joanna’s contribution to the community, describing her as someone whose compassion, leadership and dedication had made a significant difference to the lives of many people.

Former Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford highlighted Joanna’s ability to turn personal experience into meaningful support for others, whether through her work with the Samaritans, SCA-UK or community broadcasting.

Speaking after receiving the award, Joanna said she was both surprised and humbled by the recognition.

The High Sheriff Awards recognise individuals across Somerset whose voluntary service, leadership and commitment have made an exceptional contribution to their communities.

Joanna’s award serves as a reminder of the extraordinary impact that dedicated volunteers continue to have in strengthening local communities and supporting those who need it most.