29th June 2020
Today The Independent publishes its annual Happy List, which this year honours 50 remarkable heroes in a crisis who have helped others during the Covid-19 pandemic. These are some of Britain’s most inspirational individuals, whose kindness, ingenuity and dedication prove that the worst of times can bring out our best. The List includes:
- Charandeep Singh, founder of The Sikh Food Bank which has distributed over 50,000 meals to people in need across Scotland. Charandeep is also the deputy chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce
- Captain Sir Tom Moore who raised more than £32 million for NHS charities by walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday
- Olivia Strong who created the Run for Heroes 5km challenge which has now raised over £5m for NHS charities
Charandeep Singh, founder of The Sikh Food Bank, said:
“To be recognised in the ‘Heroes in a Crisis’ List with so many inspiring individuals from across the UK is truly overwhelming. We have made it our mission to make sure families in need don’t go hungry during this crisis and since starting in March we have delivered over 50,000 meals. This recognition is dedicated to all our volunteers who stepped up to serve the most vulnerable in our communities across Scotland.”
Dr Liz Cameron OBE, Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:
“I have witnessed the immense acts of charity carried out by members of the Chambers of Commerce Network and I applaud the vital efforts of the business community to supporting people in need throughout this crisis. As well as our members, I have also been humbled by the volunteer efforts of Chambers of Commerce employees. Today’s publication is a resounding testament to Charandeep’s commitment to supporting and serving communities across Scotland which he has carried out on top of his day job. Congratulations to Charandeep and to all the inspirational individuals across the UK who are making a difference.”
Christian Broughton, editor of The Independent, said:
“In this time of such extraordinary turmoil, extraordinary characters have stepped up to make a difference. This year’s Happy List is devoted entirely to exactly these people – from carers who have risked their lives to save others, to fundraisers who have brought hope and comfort. We can’t possibly celebrate everyone who deserves credit, but those on this list deserve our recognition and our gratitude. Our thanks to them all – and to those who nominated such a broad and uplifting crowd.”
