Congratulations to Curtis Pugh on receiving the “I Give My Time” award at Birmingham Community Healthcare Charity’s first Learning Disability Service User and Carer Awards 2025, in recognition of his extraordinary commitment to helping others.
The event shone a spotlight on individuals who go above and beyond for their communities. Curtis, an MD Support Centre service user, was nominated by the Learning Disability Team for his tireless charity work and campaigning.
Since 2016, Curtis and his dad, Stephen, have been devoted supporters of Birmingham Hospice. Inspired by Curtis’s mum Tracey, who was cared for by the Inpatient Unit, they set up Tracey’s Dream and Friends to raise thousands of pounds for the hospice.
Their kindness extends further, from fundraising events to donating comfort bears to Birmingham Children’s Hospital’s cancer ward. Curtis often delivering the bears while dressed as a superhero, spreading joy wherever he goes. He also champions awareness of hidden disabilities, including autism and ADHD, and promotes the Sunflower lanyard scheme. He recently delivered training to Birmingham Hospice to raise awareness of hidden disabilities.
Curtis’s award is a heartfelt recognition of his compassion, dedication, and the positive impact he continues to make in the lives of so many.
What is the Sunflower lanyard scheme?
The Sunflower lanyard shows you have a disability or condition which may not be immediately obvious. It helps indicate that the wearer may need additional support, such as extra time in shops, an aisle seat at venues, or assistance using public transport.
Launched by Hidden Disabilities in 2016, the Sunflower lanyard is recognised across a wide number of sectors, including healthcare providers, central and local government, travel and tourism industries, retail, education providers and many more. It is recognised in the UK and many other countries.
Sunflower lanyards can be purchased from the Hidden Disabilities store.