Respect has been very fortunate to have been shortlisted for (and in some cases win) lots of awards since we were launched in the Summer of 2010. We are proud to be the largest, most active and most awarded LGBT network in the UK! The Co-operative is also the UK’s most lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) friendly retailer. We have been the only retailer in Stonewalls annual Workplace Equality Index Top 100 since 2010 - ranking 3rd in 2013, the first retailer to make it into the Top 10. It is always such a buzz when you hear you have been shortlisted for an award. They offer you an opportunity to reflect on the hard work of so many people that make this all happen - our Respect members volunteer 1000’s of hours each year. Celebrating and reflecting is something we are all guilty of not doing enough of. So now is the time for us to give something back. We are delighted to launch the inaugural ‘Respect ‘Loved by You’ Awards’.
What are the awards? The awards are very much back to basics. They are an opportunity for people from all over the UK (anyone in the world can vote too) to vote for their favourites in 27 diverse categories. We have worked hard to ensure all areas of life and interests are covered in the categories, and to ensure they have a real community feel. We believe the awards offer a rare opportunity for the smallest community groups and events to be celebrated
alongside the biggest. We don’t think there are enough opportunities to celebrate the inspiring work and positive impact of more isolated and community based groups, events and initiatives. We’d love to have an awards where the charities, events, groups and lots of other things that are ‘Loved by You’ receive the recognition they deserve. These are the peoples awards.
how do i nominate? Voting is open until 15th December 2013. Plenty of time to vote! You can cast your votes on our dedicated awards web-page at www.co-operative.coop/corporate/ RespectLGBT/Loved-by-You-Awards-2013/ You don’t need to nominate in all the categories if you don’t want to. We will be announcing the winners of all the awards on 19th December 2013. Big drum roll..... Quite simply, the winners will be those that get the most nominations. We will also be announcing two runner ups for all categories. To find out who the winners are first, follow us on Twitter @CoopRespectLGBT Our official Twitter hashtag is #respectLBYawards
THE CATEGORIES >>>>>>
LGBT Social/Networking Group of the Year A group that offers an environment for socialising and networking. It could be a business network or something a bit different. There’s loads out there.
LGBT Community Group of the Year Often unsung heroes, the groups offer unique and important support, and promote an inclusive society. They’re often coordinated by volunteers too.
LGBT Charity of the Year Offering diverse services, the world would be a darker place without many of the wonderful LGBT charities out there. They save lives. Simples.
Health & Wellbeing Charity of the Year They are there when you need them. Offering services and support often not available elsewhere, or in the same way. Our heroes.
LGBT Sports Group of the Year Homophobia in sport is a big issue. These groups offer a safe space for people of all sporting abilities. Promoting inclusion!
Regional LGBT Magazine of the Year Offering an avenue to promote local events and groups as well as publishing local LGBT news. They are often free and available in bars. National LGBT Magazine of the Year No introduction needed. They are national institutions and are the LGBT magazines available on many high streets around the UK.
LGBT Website of the Year This could be any website that caters specifically for LGBT interests and news. The quality of many of them is very impressive.
LGBT Radio Station/Show of the Year There aren’t many of these but we need to celebrate their unique programming and content, supporting with building an inclusive society.
Tweeter of the Year A person, group or organisation who offer informative and engaging ‘tweets’. Using Twitter for the greater good.
LGBT Pride of the Year (UK) With more and more appearing on the calendar evert year, these events are the highlights of many peoples calendars. They have a real positive social impact too. They come in all shapes and sizes.
LGBT Pride of the Year (International) For those lucky enough to have experienced attending a Pride event overseas, we want to highlight the best of the rest.
LGBT Cultural Event of the Year An event that celebrates and raises awareness of the culture of the LGBT community. It could be through art, music or theatre. Just some ideas.
Inclusive Event of the Year An event where everyone is welcome and where everyone can be themselves, no matter what their differences.
You can cast your votes on our dedicated awards web-page at www.co-operative.coop/corporate/RespectLGBT/Loved-by-You-Awards-2013
Album of the Year Music plays a big part in all of our lives. We want to recognise the collection of songs that struck a chord with you. It doesn’t have to be a chart hit either.
Song of the Year 2013 has been an epic year for songs that have captured many a moment. Whether it is celebrations, those sadder moments and so much more.
Movie of the Year The price of a cinema ticket may make us want to cry sometimes but we can’t deny that this year has given us many cinematic greats. What’s yours?
TV Show of the Year We have been hooked on so many TV shows this year. They’ve informed us, made us laugh, cry and everything in between. What’s your fave?
Book of the Year Whenever we have a spare half an hour we can’t think of anything better than a cuppa (99’ of course), and burying ourselves in a good book.
Theatre Production of the Year Whether it’s an old favourite or a newbie, the talent gracing theatre stages all over the UK is huge. What has got you singing along or laughing out loud?
Inspiring Celebrity of the Year Is there a celebrity that has inspired you or done something positive for the LGBT community? We want to recognise someone who has used their celebrity status for the greater good.
LGBT Bar/Club of the Year There are hundreds of LGBT bars, clubs and club nights all over the UK that are all different and offer a unique and safe space.
Restaurant of the Year We love nothing better than getting all dressed up and going out for a meal with friends and family. What restaurant tickles your tastebuds?
Inclusive Venue of the Year This is a venue where everyone is welcome and when at the venue, everyone can be themselves. It can be any inclusive venue, theatre, bar.....
Holiday Destination of the Year Thinking of our Summer holiday definitely helps us get through the busy weeks. We work hard for our holidays. Where do you enjoy spending your free time? It can be home or away.
Brand of the Year What brand really shouts ‘LGBT friendly’? We have witnessed some wonderful LGBT advertising campaigns in recent years. What brand has your loyalty and respect? Votes for The Co-operative will not be included.
The ‘Respect’ Moment of 2013 We want to know your most memorable moment for equality in 2013. Is there something that has really stood out for you? It could be a political landmark, memorable event, advert, something from the news or a celeb doing good.
WIN! Everyone that nominates for the awards will be entered into our very special ‘prize draw’ and you could you a fabulous ‘Co-operative Food Truly Irresistible Hamper’. What are you waiting for!