A REDDITCH woman who has offered free foot care for the poorest in society has been awarded an MBE.
Debi Monk, the founder of ‘Forgotten Feet’, is one of 11 people across Worcestershire to have been recognised in King Charles III’s New Year’s Honours list.
Debi founded Forgotten Feet in 2013 after graduating from Aston University four years before.
During her time running Forgotten Feet, Debi highlighted the significant societal disparity in access to foot health care.
Her MBE has been given to her in recognition for her services to Podiatry for homeless people.
Debi told the Standard it was a ‘complete shock’ when she found out she had been honoured.
She added: “It was an unexpected but lovely surprise.
“I am deeply honoured and hope this might help raise the profile of my charity, Forgotten Feet.
“I set this up originally 13 years ago to serve those most in need and least likely to have the means of accessing such a service otherwise.
“We take the service to homeless centres where it can be easily accessed.”
Debi is among four people across Worcestershire who have been awarded an MBE in the latest honours list.
There has also been one CBE, one OBE, and five BEMs handed out to deserving people across the county.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Beatrice Grant, said: “I am so pleased to see that eleven members of our community have been recognised for their achievements in public life and for their exceptional commitment to helping others.
“I would like to send my heartfelt congratulations and thank them all for their contribution to society and to our county.”
