Date published: 2025-11-12 | Category: Communities and volunteering, Delivering for local residents
A spotlight is once again shining on people in Bath and North East Somerset who go above and beyond to make a difference to the lives of others with the launch of the Community Awards for 2025/26.
From dedicated volunteers to inspiring leaders and impactful charities, the awards celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations across the district and are now in their 15th year.
Nominations are now open until January 2 and this year’s award categories are:
- Beryl Dixon Community Leader of the Year Award honouring exceptional leadership in community organisations
- Jenny Willson Volunteer of the Year Award recognising a volunteer who has shown the most outstanding contribution to the community and goes above and beyond
- Sara Banks Young Volunteer of the Year Award for a young person aged up to 25 years who has made exceptional contributions to the community
- Peter Duppa-Miller Parish Award recognising the contribution that parishes make in their local communities
- Charity of the Year Award for providing outstanding services to support residents and the community of B&NES
In addition, the Chair will present a special recognition award to an individual or organisation whose contribution to the community stands out across all nominations received
The winners will be selected by a panel of representatives from Bath & North East Somerset Council and partner organisations Bath Ethnic Minority Senior Citizen Association (BEMSCA), The Student Community Partnership, Bath and North East Somerset Avon Local Councils' Association (BANES ALCA) and Bath and North East Somerset Third Sector Group (3SG).
Councillor Liz Hardman, Chair of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “Every year the Community Awards remind us of the incredible dedication, compassion and leadership that exists across Bath and North East Somerset. These awards are about celebrating the people and organisations who quietly transform lives and strengthen our communities. I’m proud that we continue to honour their contributions and I encourage everyone to take part by nominating someone who inspires them.”
Two of the award categories honour the memory of council employees who made a difference to their community but have sadly passed away. Sara Banks worked for the council for more than 32 years in a variety of roles and volunteered in the community and Jenny Willson was known for her leadership in promoting health and wellbeing initiatives as part of the Public Health team.
Nominations can be submitted via the online form on the council website, or by requesting a paper version from the Community Engagement Team via email at connecting_communities@bathnes.gov.uk or telephone 01225 396975.
Photo left to right:
- Richard Maccabee, Chair of Bath and North East Somerset ALCA Area Group
- Councillor Liz Hardman, Chair of Bath & North East Somerset Council
- Amy Pollen, Council, Service Manager - Everyone Health
- Roderic Dixon, The son of Beryl Dixon MBE