The finalists for the 2025 Spirit of Salford Community Awards have been announced, and is set to take place on April 3, with the winners announced at Salford Community Stadium.
The people of Salford are able to vote on three awards: Citizen of the Year, Community Group of the Year, and Public Servant of the Year, with the vote closing on Thursday March 6.
Omolara Taylor, Community Engagement Officer of Connect Talent CIO, nominated for Community Group of the Year, said: “I was absolutely delighted and humbled when I first heard about our nomination. It’s heartwarming to know that the efforts of our dedicated team at Connect Talent CIO resonate with the people we serve.
“We understand there are numerous community groups doing incredible work across Salford, so being recognized in this way is both validating and inspiring. I believe our nomination reflects the impact of our mission to foster social inclusion, empower local communities, and bridge the digital divide, especially for underrepresented and disadvantaged individuals.
“We feel this nomination is not just about our achievements but also reflects the incredible support we’ve received from community members who have benefited from our programs. Their trust and encouragement fuel our passion for making a difference.”
Members of the Broughton Trust, who are up for the same award, echoed similar enthusiasm, saying: “Being nominated for this award signifies that others appreciate and value the work we do, It’s more than just an honour, it serves as motivation to continue to encourage, support and empower the people in our community to reach their full potential.
“By being nominated, it shows that we are valued and acknowledged for our positive contributions to our community. This inspires us to continue striving to work hard and provide the help that other people in our community need. it gives us a sense of pride and accomplishment knowing that our work is recognised.
“It means a lot to all of us, especially following the sad passing of Mike Thorpe, we know this would make him so proud.”
There are four nominees for Citizen of the Year, which recognises citizens of Salford who have made outstanding contributions to Salford. The nominees are:
John O’Doherty and his wife Pat, who have made important contributions to initiatives such as the Dementia Champions Group, which supports families affected by dementia. John has collaborated with various organisations, given talks and worked in advisory roles.
Amir Ahmed is a development officer for the Yemeni and BAME Community Centre in Eccles, playing a crucial role in promoting community safety and organising cultural and educational initiatives.
Dennis Baldwin, has been described as the driving force behind the Reach Out: Start to End Suicide campaign providing crucial support to those affected by suicide. He has transformed his own experience as a multiple attempt survivor into a ‘powerful force for good’.
Ian Carberry has enhanced people’s wellbeing through improving local spaces and fostering social connections. He started a virtual book club to combat loneliness, planted 200 trees in Weaste cemetery, all aimed at making Salford a cleaner and greener place.
Voting for this award is open here.
The Community Group of the Year award celebrates groups who have made outstanding contributions to Salford. The nominees are:
Connect Talent CIO are bridging the digital divide in Salford and empowering communities. They have trained over 50 individuals in digital skills in the past year and helped 40 individuals find employment through their mentoring.
Ordsall Community Arts offer a welcoming hub where people come together to learn new skills and express their creativity. They have worked with local groups to provide clients with the ‘therapeutic benefits of art’ and are entirely staffed by volunteers, who believe that creative opportunities should be available for all.
Broughton Trust Adult Learning Team have supported overseas nationals who have settled in Salford. A warm and welcoming environment for newcomers who can make friends and practice English. They have had over 700 learners on their courses in the last year, supporting 97 people into employment.
100th Salford Scout Group are a ‘beacon of community spirit’, supporting thousands of young people over five decades, equipping them with essential skills. The largest Scout group in Salford, supporting around 100 young people through various things.
Talk About It Mate have had a profound positive impact on men’s mental health and wellbeing, offering programmes such as weekly walks, support groups and workshops, which provide a safe space for men to share struggles.
Voting for this award is open here.
The final award for the public to vote on is Public Servant of the Year, which recognises front line workers who put the people of Salford first.
Steve Hayles works as a support worker, having provided over 40 years of service to Salford, supporting individuals with learning disabilities, improving their quality of life. Beyond this, Steve has also been a foster carer and fundraiser.
Elaine and Dean Gilmore have contributed to physical education and school sports since the 1990s, inspiring young people to pursue healthier lifestyles. The pair have organised more than 100 annual sporting events.
Kay Horrocks has transformed Eccles Fire Station into a ‘thriving community hub’, creating a community garden which allows residents to connect with nature, fostering a sense of pride and wellbeing in the community.
Ruth Myall has worked as a teaching assistant and in the before and after school club at Mesne Lea Primary and has organised numerous events and activities, including fairs and Easter egg raffles, as well as a prom and afternoon tea for Year 6 students.
Voting for this award is now open here.
The remaining seven awards are decided by a judging panel. A full list of nominees can be found in the links below:
Recent Comments