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The awards celebrate the people and organisations helping to create stronger, more connected neighbourhoods through volunteering, community projects, wellbeing activities and support services.

The event brought together finalists from communities across A2Dominion's operating area, with awards recognising everything from food distribution hubs and community cafés to volunteers, neighbours and local projects making a positive difference to people's lives.

Nic Kantas, Head of Intensive Customer Support at A2Dominion, said: "The people and organisations celebrated through these awards demonstrate the incredible difference that community spirit, kindness and collaboration can make. Every finalist has made a positive impact on the lives of others and should be enormously proud of what they have achieved. We are delighted to recognise their contributions and thank them for everything they do to support local communities."

Supporting local communities

Among the winners were the volunteers behind the Havelock Food Distribution Hub in Ealing who were recognised for their dedication to supporting residents facing financial hardship and creating a welcoming community space. The volunteers help provide food and practical support while bringing people together and strengthening local community connections.

Speaking after receiving their award, the team said volunteering was about "giving something back" and seeing the difference their work makes to local families.

Lyn Hutchinson, a volunteer with the hub, said: "Seeing the smile on people's faces and knowing they can feed their children makes it worthwhile. It's hard work, but it's worth it."

Celebrating community champions

The awards also recognised individuals making a lasting impact in their communities. Cherry Hughes, from Chichester, received first place in the Community Contribution Award category for her years of dedication to bringing people together through community activities and supporting neighbours. She was recognised for her longstanding commitment to reducing isolation, supporting local events and helping to maintain the community garden for residents to enjoy.

Cherry said: "It's what I've always done. I've lived here for 50 years and have always looked after the community. When I found out I had been nominated, I was quite nervous because I'm much more comfortable working behind the scenes than receiving recognition myself."

Partnerships that make a difference

Mahaba Café in West Ealing was named Community Partner of the Year in recognition of its work providing activities, wellbeing support, food services and opportunities for local residents. The social enterprise also creates employment opportunities for young people with additional needs and works closely with local partners to support the wider community.

Muriel Morgan Walckiers from Mahaba Café said: "It's been amazing to have the support from A2Dominion. It's a real partnership."

Improving health and wellbeing

Sahar Badra won the Community Health and Wellbeing Project of the Year Award for the running group she established in West Ealing, helping residents improve their health, wellbeing and confidence through regular physical activity and peer support.

Reflecting on the award, Sahar said: "I was so shocked. I've never been nominated or won anything before. I feel very privileged, honoured and proud, not just for me, but for the members."

Customers and colleagues submitted nominations for the awards, which were then reviewed by a judging panel that included resident panel members and A2Dominion colleagues.

The event closed with a celebration of all nominees, volunteers and community champions whose efforts continue to create stronger communities across the areas A2Dominion serves. Congratulations to all finalists and winners.