Nominations open to recognise unsung community heroes

Nominations open to recognise unsung community heroes

Community heroes and groups who go the extra mile across Blaby District are set to be recognised by the District Council.

Nominations are open for the fourth Blaby District Council Community Awards, to celebrate and reward local groups and volunteers who make a real difference people's lives.

The award categories are:

• Volunteer of the Year
• Young Volunteer of the Year
• Community Group of the Year

Nominations close at midnight on Sunday 10 November.

Visit www.blaby.gov.uk/community-awards for more information and to nominate. Email or paper forms can be requested by emailing vcshub@blaby.gov.uk.

The Volunteer of the Year category is for individuals who give their time freely and go the extra mile in the community.

Last year's Volunteer of the Year award was shared by Suzann Miller, Sharon Denston and Kim Frain for their support to Ukrainian refugees.

Young Volunteer of the Year award went to 19-year-old role model Alleah Benson for her voluntary work at Stoney Stanton Youth Club among other achievements.

A panel of judges will decide the winners and runners-up in the volunteer categories. Winners will each receive £100 and runners-up £50 as well as being able to nominate a local charitable organisation to receive a cash donation.

The Community Group of the Year award is for organisations that really make a difference to the lives of Blaby District residents through the services they provide. This could be a local community group, sports club, charity or social enterprise. Last year's winner was Sapcote Memory Hub CIC, with Blaby and District Spartan's Inclusive Football Club taking the runner-up prize.

The Community Group of the Year, crowned following a public vote, will receive £1,000 and the runner-up organisation will win £500.

The 2024 Community Awards are sponsored by Everyone Active, Central Co-Op and the Love Blaby Lottery.

Full details of the Community Awards, including the entry criteria, judging process and prizes can be found at www.blaby.gov.uk/community-awards.

Councillor Cheryl Cashmore, Blaby District Council Portfolio Holder for Community Development, said: "There are so many unsung heroes and groups volunteering across the District who deserve recognition from across our communities.

"Whether you want to nominate someone for helping others, or protecting the environment, or want to celebrate the achievements of a community group, charity, sports club or social enterprise, we want to hear from you.

"Thank you to our sponsors for helping us to recognise the difference that volunteers and community groups make, I look forward to joining the judging panel."