Annual awards will honour volunteers who ‘make a difference’

The council is urging residents to nominate a person or group that deserves recognition for the help they give to others.

The Borough Council’s Making a Difference community awards include individual, and group categories as follows:

• Creating a Sense of Community Pride Individual: an individual who is inspirational in supporting and engaging their local communities leading to enriched lives for residents
• Creating a Sense of Community Pride Group: a group who are inspirational in supporting and engaging their local communities leading to enriched lives for residents
• Young volunteer(s): A young person or a group (under 18) who volunteer and contribute their time, energy and skills to benefit others within our community 
• Protecting our community’s environment: An individual or group who volunteer to improve where we live, making it a better place for us all by enhancing wellbeing, our safety, and responsibilities in relation to our planet
• Contributing to our local heritage, tourism or culture: An individual or group who enable others to appreciate and benefit from our local heritage, tourism and cultural offer, which attracts visitors and makes this a borough for us all to enjoy.

Executive Member for the Voluntary Sector, Councillor Michael Mullaney said: “The Making a Difference Awards are a fantastic way to shine a light on the individuals and groups who generously give their time and energy to support others. Their efforts, often unseen, have made a real impact, especially in recent years, and many residents will have felt that support first-hand.

“It’s a privilege to be able to honour some of the most dedicated and compassionate people in our borough, those who strive to uplift others, strengthen their communities, and make our shared spaces better for everyone.

“If you know someone, or a group, whose kindness and commitment deserve recognition, please nominate them for this year’s Making a Difference Awards. It’s a meaningful way to say thank you and let them know how much their work is valued.”

To find out more about the different categories and how to nominate visit www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/makingadifference or telephone 01455 255934 for an application form.

Nominations must be received by Friday 17 October 2025. A judging panel will consider all nominations, and the awards will be presented at the voluntary and community sector celebration event at Hinckley Rugby Club on Thursday 13 November 2025. All individuals nominated, and representatives from groups nominated, will be invited to attend.