Lewisham Community Awards return for seventh year – could you be a winner?

Lewisham's Community Awards are back for 2024 and residents are invited to make their nominations for all those individuals, businesses and groups who make their area a better place.

The Community Awards, now in their seventh year, are an opportunity to celebrate the unsung local champions who are making a difference across the borough.

The Community Awards scheme was launched in 2017 to champion all those who are going above and beyond for their communities. This could be through helping a neighbour in need, coaching a sports team, running a community choir, giving up their free time to volunteer, performing incredible acts of selflessness, donating food, and more.

The awards want to celebrate and reward the amazing people, groups, and businesses whose contributions improve the borough – changing lives, building community spirit, and helping others stay safe and well. Their work and commitment are what make Lewisham such a special place.

Who do you think should receive an award? There are four categories open for entries:

• Individual

• Young Person (age 21 and under)

• Business

• Faith or Community Group years and as others are doing across the country. As we thank those who continue to serve our nation, this occasion also gives opportunity to reflect and to remember the service and sacrifice of all who served before them.”

With more than 250 nominations last year, it’s clear that many individuals and organisations are dedicated to improving the lives of others. Each recipient had an inspiring story to tell.

Among them was Base 13, a personal training studio which was one of last year’s business category award recipients, nominated for its community fundraising efforts.

The ceremony in Bromley also took place on Reserves Day, which recognises the roles of reservists in the armed forces. This was part of the services and events that were being held nationwide throughout the week for Armed Forces Day.

Last year, as part of Bromley’s Armed Forces Day activities, the council renewed its commitment to support the armed forces in Bromley through the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant. This commitment has since received the Bronze award accreditation through the Employer Recognition Scheme from the Ministry of Defence.

Bromley has the largest percentage of military veterans of all the London boroughs, with 2.5 per cent of residents having served in the Armed forces. The borough also has dedicated Army Cadet, Air Training and Sea Cadet Corps providing life skills, training and friendship for younger members of the community across the borough.

Also awarded was Bank of Things, recipient of the Community or Religious Group category. It received the award for supporting young residents living with financial hardship in Lewisham.

You can learn more about Base 13, Bank of Things and other award recipients on the Lewisham Council YouTube channel.

Nominations for the Community Awards close on Sunday, September 8. All nominees will receive an award, and recipients will be announced at an in-person ceremony on Wednesday, October 9. Nominations can be made at: https://tinyurl.com/rb9tnvju