Celebrate Suffolk's Unsung Heroes: Nominations Open for 2026 Community Awards

The stage is set to honor the remarkable individuals and organizations that contribute positively to communities across Suffolk. The 2026 Suffolk Community Awards have officially opened for nominations, offering an opportunity to recognize those who make noteworthy impacts through kindness and volunteer efforts.

Recognizing Acts of Kindness

Hannah Reid, the chief executive of Community Action Suffolk, emphasized the importance of the awards in publicly acknowledging the unsung heroes who significantly enhance the lives of others. "It is a cliché to say that there are a great many unsung heroes in Suffolk that make a very big difference," Reid stated, highlighting the true essence of their contributions.

A Variety of Award Categories

A total of 18 award categories are available this year, giving recognition not only to individuals but also to groups and organizations whose efforts often go unnoticed. Previous winners, like 11-year-old Harli Dixon, who raised over £24,000 for St Elizabeth’s Hospice, showcase the incredible potential and impact of community members.

A New Focus on Health and Wellbeing

This year introduces a new category—the Health and Wellbeing Award—designed to celebrate initiatives that promote physical and mental wellbeing within the community. Stuart Keeble of Suffolk County Council remarked on the significance of community efforts in maintaining health, asserting, "This award is a chance to recognize and celebrate those efforts, and the positive impact they have on people’s lives across Suffolk."

Encouragement for Nominations

Sally Longmate, CEO of the Suffolk Association of Local Councils, encourages the public to come forward and nominate those who deserve recognition for their "small actions that have a big impact." As the nomination deadline approaches on July 12, 2026, it is a timely reminder of the power of community and the importance of celebrating those who make a difference every day.