More than 100 representatives of small and local charities were recognised and celebrated yesterday at Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales' annual Westminster Reception.

The charities were joined by MPs, Government ministers and representatives from Lloyds Banking Group to highlight the work of small and local charities in tackling disadvantage across the UK.

The event, hosted by the office of Anna Turley MP, gave small and local charities the opportunity to meet with their MPs and share with them the challenges they face supporting those in need across their local communities.

Baroness Rennie Fritchie, Chair of Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales, said: “Across England and Wales there are 573 constituencies and what can empower charities even further is the support and advocacy of MPs of all parties and places, who get to know and understand these charities and who they work with and crucially take that insight back to this place, helping to ensure that these vital and often extraordinary local charities not only survive but thrive.”

Other speakers at the event included Lord Blackwell, Chairman of Lloyds Banking Group and Judith Ford, CEO of Wyre Forest Nightstop.

Judith said: "We’re all here today to celebrate small charities in communities across England and Wales but sadly many people aren’t aware of the important difference local charities like Nightstop make. It's why we need support from others – from MPs, government, businesses and others to champion who we are and what we do."

The reception followed the Foundation’s Small, Vital and Vocal Summit held in Mary Sumner Hall which brought together a range of charity representatives to discuss the national issues impacting their work and gain insight and advice on how to increase their voice in calling for solutions.