The inspirational woman, carer and community hero behind The People's Angels nominated for Pride of Britain award

A former mental health support worker, Lynn Davis set up South Tyneside community interest company The People’s Angels in 2017, running it out of her own garage on Ashleigh Road.

It came after years of volunteering for Sunderland-based Grace House North East which provides support for children with disabilities and life-limiting conditions.

Through her Facebook page Grace Angels she raised around £20,000 for the charity, before branching out to help a more diverse range of people.

The Angels have since supported upwards of 1,000 people going through times of crisis in the borough, from victims fleeing domestic violence and people experiencing homelessness to families in need of furniture or baby items and elderly residents unable to afford mobility scooters.

Helping others comes naturally to mum-of-two Lynn, 54.

While growing up, she was a young carer for her own mum, a wheelchair user, and she became a full-time carer for her sister Alison Davis, 35 years ago.

Alison, 50, has neurofibromatosis – a genetic disorder that causes benign tumours to develop in the nervous system.

As a result she has learning difficulties and suffers from memory problems among other health issues.

Alison’s three children, Ian, 29, Dale, 28, and Sarah, 24, were also born with the same genetic condition and Lynn has cared for all three, alongside her own sons – Daniel, 28, and Adam, 24 – since they were babies.

“Every day I think how on earth have I done it? But it’s just about balancing things,” said Lynn.

“I’ve always helped people, it’s what I do. I think it’s because we struggled growing up, money was tight and mum was poorly.

“I think that’s where my passion comes from.”

Lynn has been nominated for a Pride of Britain award by her friend of 15-years Heather Clifford-Armstrong.

“I just wanted to get Lynn and The People’s Angels some recognition for everything that they do,” said the 68-year-old of Lawe Road.

“She has worked tirelessly to help the people of South Tyneside and has a heart of gold.”

Lynn was also nominated for South Tyneside Council's Proud to Support campaign for her efforts collecting donations for local care homes and key workers during the coronavirus lockdown.

The Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Norman Dick wished her luck for the awards, he commented: “The People’s Angels do a fantastic job in supporting people and families in South Tyneside. Lynn Davies is at the forefront of this running a small CIC from her very own garage. Her determination to help the Borough is a truly selfless act which comes from the kindness of her heart.

“It is wonderful to see that she has also been nominated for a Pride of Britain award. Lynn, and her work, certainly deserve to be celebrated. The Mayoress and I would like thank Lynn for all that she does for the people of South Tyneside and wish her the best of luck.”

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