A Bury St Edmunds charity manager has been commended for her work helping homeless young people and children.

Kathryn Stittle, 29, was presented with an Action for Children Stephenson Award at a House of Lords reception on Friday 7 November.

The award recognises the passion and commitment she has shown as service coordinator at Action for Children’s West Suffolk Shared Housing Scheme where she has worked since 2009.

The service provides short term accommodation for homeless young people as well as offering emotional and practical support on education, training and employment opportunities.

Judged by a national panel, the accolade was given to staff from across the country that have shown extraordinary dedication in helping the charity improve the lives of some of the UK’s most vulnerable children and families.

She said: “I had no idea I was going to receive the award – it was a complete surprise and I felt very humbled.

“However, it doesn’t tell the whole story, I have a very able and dedicated team behind me who do a fantastic job and are committed to the work that Action for Children carries out, helping those young people who need us most.”

Children’s services manager at Action for Children, Graham Harrison, said: “Kathryn is a truly worthy winner of this award.

“Through her work at our West Suffolk service she has made a unique difference to so many vulnerable children and young people.”