The honour recognises Audrey’s long‑standing commitment to improving the lives of others. In 2011, Audrey set up the Glasgow Southeast Foodbank, which she went on to manage until she retired in 2024. Her tireless work for people who need the foodbank’s support has touched thousands of lives.  

In 2022, Audrey joined the Govanhill Housing Association Management Committee and was elected to the position of vice chair in 2023. During that time, she has given many hours of her spare time to support the Association’s work.

Govanhill Housing Association chair Keith Kintrea said: “It is a real pleasure working with Audrey on the management committee of Govanhill Housing Association, and I’m delighted to see her contribution to Govanhill recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours. None of us want to live in a society where food banks are needed, but the reality is that they are a lifeline for many people in our community, and that lifeline may not have existed without Audrey’s commitment and hard work.

“The fact that she joined our management committee shortly after becoming a tenant, and later became vice chair, choosing to spend her retirement championing the needs of residents, shows just how deeply she cares about her community. I am very pleased for Audrey, this is a well deserved award.”

The British Empire Medal is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service at a local level. The award will be formally presented at a ceremony later this year.