Robert Bradley Ainsworth, from West Sussex, was among 26 exceptional individuals honoured with the esteemed British Citizen Award (BCA) at the Palace of Westminster. This recognition celebrates their outstanding contributions to society.
The Medal Presentation, held on Thursday 25th July 2024, saw Robert receive the coveted BCA Medal of Honour for Services to Volunteering & Charitable Giving (BCAv). Recipients are entitled to use the post-nominals commemorating their achievements.
Robert (known as Brad) left school at 16 with no qualifications. Through determination and hard work he started his own wealth management company. To help others he started ‘Springboard2Business’, an organisation for people who leave education wanting to start their own business. He also goes into schools and talks about the importance of finance and to tell his story. In total, Brad has helped raise over £2.3 million benefiting local and international communities.
Brad is also committed to helping others in the community. He was one of the first major sponsors of V2 Radio, he slept rough as part of the Stonepillow charity, he is the primary sponsor for Chichester Rugby Club and also raised funds for eight beds so that parents could stay by their child’s bedside at St Richard’s Hospital.
Brad is losing his sight and has been diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, each year his sight fails a little more. After an attempt to walk up Kilimanjaro, he raised funds for an Orphanage in Tanzania ensuring that they had a roof over their heads. and when he heard that a local women’s refuge could not support women who were disabled, he ensured a ramp was put in place.
Brad was presented with the BCA Medal of Honour by Dame Mary Perkins, founder of Specsavers who said “Brad demonstrates what can be done through hard work and determination. He has raised enormous funds for many charities and is still doing so in spite of his sight problems. His “Springboard” 2 Business is innovative in helping young people realise their potential”.
The presentation, hosted by TV presenter Matt Allwright, was attended by BCA Patrons Dame Mary Perkins, Founder of Specsavers, and The Rt Hon Lord Dholakia. Following the ceremony, medalists enjoyed an Open Top Lap of Honour tour and a certificate presentation at another distinguished Westminster venue.
To find out more click HERE
