THURROCK resident and charity founder David Barton has been selected for national recognition and will be honoured with a British Citizen Award for Services to the Arts (BCAa) in recognition of his sustained charitable and community service using art to support mental health, inclusion and wellbeing.

The awards form part of The People's Honours, a national recognition programme that honours individuals from across the United Kingdom who have made an exceptional contribution to society through voluntary service and civic commitment.

Those selected are recognised for the positive impact they make in their communities and for their dedication to service for the good of the country.

The Services to the Arts category recognises individuals who use their creative discipline to benefit wider audiences, with a particular emphasis on accessibility, inclusion and equality.

David founded the charity Get Started Art in 2022. Since its establishment, he has led the distribution of more than 1.5 million free art-therapy books and creative resources to children, schools, care homes and hospitals across Essex, the UK and internationally. The charity provides free arts and crafts materials and creative support to disadvantaged children, vulnerable adults, and people of all ages with learning disabilities or additional needs.

Rather than focusing on traditional art education, David's work places accessibility at its core.

His art-therapy resources are designed for individuals who may not otherwise have access to creative outlets, including children with additional needs, care home residents, people recovering from trauma, and those living in refuge or supported accommodation.

The Get Started learning packs.

By ensuring the materials are simple, inclusive and engaging, barriers to participation are reduced regardless of age, ability or background.

Alongside his charitable work, David has also played a wider civic leadership role through Essex Freemasonry, helping to develop and lead county-wide and national initiatives linked to Children's Mental Health Week and Dementia Action Week. work has supported collaboration between charitable organisations, community groups and volunteer networks, strengthening community engagement across the county and beyond.

David's sustained contribution to civic and community life has previously been recognised through a number of honours, including an Essex High Sheriff's Award, Mayoral Roll of Honour awards, and formal recognition at the Pride of Essex Awards. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), reflecting his commitment to creativity as a practical force for public benefit.

Individuals selected to receive a British Citizen Award are presented with a specially struck Medal of Honour, inscribed with the words "For the Good of the Country", at a formal medal presentation held at the Palace of Westminster.

David's medal presentation will take place on Thursday, 22 January at the Palace of Westminster.

The presentation will be hosted by television and radio presenter Konnie Huq and attended by BCA Patrons Dame Mary Perkins DBE and The Right Honourable The Lord Mott OBE. Following the presentation, medal recipients will take part in a formal open-top ceremonial procession through central London as part of the national honours celebrations.