A new awards programme has been launched to recognise and celebrate the contributions of those who went above and beyond to support the Letchworth community in 2020, particularly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Foundation Community Awards will honour those who played a part in helping hundreds of vulnerable people and those who were shielding during the first lockdown. The awards will also shine a light on local businesses who had to innovate to keep trading while still doing their bit to support the community.
Chair of the Foundation’s Board, Pam Burn, said: “This has been a year like no other, therefore it is only right that we recognise the exceptional efforts of individuals, groups and charities who stepped up to support the most vulnerable in our community. Through the Community Response Service we saw social action happen at an incredible pace, highlighting what can be achieved at a grassroots level with the right support and by working collaboratively.
“We also want to highlight local businesses, many of whom had to rethink their business models to ensure they could continue operating. Retailers showed great innovation and determination which, for some, resulted in their customer base growing during the first lockdown. Businesses also showed generosity by donating food and money to local charities to help the community response – I was immensely proud to see everyone pull together in this show of strength for our town.”
The Letchworth community is invited to submit nominations for the Outstanding Adult Award (over 18) and Outstanding Young Person Award (under 18), who have been active in one or more of the following areas:
- Learning support for children and young people
- Supporting vulnerable families
- Tackling isolation of older people
- Improving mental health and wellbeing
- Keeping people active
A community panel made up of businesspeople, North Herts CVS, the Letchworth BID and pupils from Highfield and Fearnhill schools will nominate the award entries for Outstanding Charity or Group and Outstanding Business.
Although nominations are open for individual awards, if you know of a business, group or charity that you believe should also be considered for our other awards, please contact us via the details below.
As well as recognising the contributions of these people and groups, the aim of the awards is to inspire the people of Letchworth for the future.
Pam continued: “Having had a second lockdown, people are understandably exhausted. It has been a huge effort to keep going across every sector and industry. By highlighting what was achieved under the most challenging circumstances we hope this will reenergise our community, empower further social action through cross-community partnerships and encourage an ongoing spirit of innovation and adaptability within the business community.”
Deadline for nominations is 23 December. Those shortlisted will be announced on 7 January. Winners announced on 18 January.
For the full criteria and to download a short nomination form, visit Letchworth.com/communityawards. Alternatively, you can request a form by emailing response@letchworth.com or if you don’t have access to the internet, call 01462 530350 to speak to a member of our team.
