Nominate

Nominate

Nominate a Local Hero

Across the UK, everyday people are doing extraordinary things, showing courage, compassion, and dedication that change lives and strengthen communities.

The Local Hero Awards celebrate these incredible individuals, groups, and organisations whose actions uplift and inspire others. From courageous children and young entrepreneurs to charity champions, community heroes, dedicated carers, and NHS and uniformed professionals, every story deserves to be heard.

We also recognise our Loyal Companions, the remarkable animals whose bravery, support, and devotion have made a life-changing impact.

Whether it’s someone who has helped save a life, inspired change, supported others through hard times, or dedicated their life to serving their community, this is your chance to share their story.

Help us honour the courage, kindness, and spirit that make our nation truly special.
 

Why Nominate Someone?

Across the nation, countless unsung heroes dedicate their time and energy to helping others, often without seeking recognition. By nominating someone for the Local Hero Awards, you’re giving them the platform and appreciation they truly deserve.

Whether it’s a young person overcoming incredible odds, a business making a real difference, a carer or NHS worker showing extraordinary compassion, a community group transforming lives, or even a loyal companion whose actions have saved or supported others, your nomination ensures their story is celebrated on a national stage.

Each nominee has the chance to receive public recognition, a prestigious award, and the heartfelt gratitude of the nation they’ve inspired through their selfless acts.

Together, let’s make sure these stories of kindness, courage, and inspiration are never overlooked, because true heroism deserves to be seen and celebrated.

How to nominate

Choose a category

Select the category that best fits your nominee’s achievements. From Child of Courage to Best Community Project, each award is designed to highlight different types of contributions.

Submit a nomination & provide details

Click the “Nominate” button next to the relevant category, complete the form, and your nomination will be on its way.

Share the story behind the nomination. Tell us why your nominee deserves recognition, the impact they’ve had, and what makes their efforts stand out.

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CHILD OF COURAGE (UNDER18)

Recognising: A young person aged 17 or under who has shown incredible bravery, resilience, or kindness in the face of challenge or adversity — whether helping others, standing up for what’s right, or overcoming personal struggles.
Why: To honour our youngest heroes who inspire their families, schools, and communities through their courage, compassion, and determination.

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FUTURE STAR

Recognising: An individual who has shown exceptional growth, determination, and potential to achieve greatness in their chosen field — whether in sport, business, education, music, arts, or community leadership. They may be at the start of their journey or breaking through to new heights, showing talent, drive, and the ability to inspire others.
Why:
To celebrate rising stars of all ages who are shaping the future with passion, creativity, and dedication.

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YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR (UNDER 25)

Recognising: A young person aged 25 or under who has shown outstanding initiative, creativity, and leadership in launching or growing a business or community project. They demonstrate ambition, innovation, and heart — proving that business success and positive impact can go hand in hand. .
Why:
To honour the next generation of entrepreneurs making a difference through hard work, vision, and community values.

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BEST NEW LOCAL BUSINESS

Recognising: A recently established business (under 3 years) that has made a positive difference in the community through innovation, service, or growth.
Why:
To honour the fresh ideas driving our local economy.

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THE PEOPLES CHOICE AWARD

Recognising: An individual or business that has captured the public’s admiration through outstanding service, dedication, or community impact.
Why:
Chosen entirely by public vote — this award is by the people, for the people.

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NHS HERO

Recognising: A dedicated NHS professional who has gone above and beyond to help others, showing compassion, care, and commitment.
Why:
To honour the everyday heroes keeping our communities healthy.

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UNIFORMED HERO

Recognising:: A key worker from the Police, Fire, Ambulance, or Armed Forces who has demonstrated exceptional service, courage, or dedication.
Why:
To celebrate bravery and commitment within our uniformed services.

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HOSPITALITY HERO

Recognising:An individual, team, or venue within the hospitality industry — such as a restaurant, café, bar, hotel, or catering business — that has gone above and beyond to support others, give back, or make a positive difference in the community. Whether it’s offering meals to those in need, fundraising for local causes, or showing exceptional kindness and care, this award honours the spirit of generosity that makes our local hospitality scene truly heroic.
Why:
To celebrate those in hospitality who put people first — showing heart, compassion, and community pride in everything they do.

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COMMUNITY HERO AWARD

Recognising:An individual who has shown extraordinary courage or selflessness — such as helping someone in crisis, saving a life, or making a major difference in a single moment of need.
Why:
To honour those who go above and beyond when it truly matters.

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COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS AWARD

Recognising:A community group, organisation, or project that has gone above and beyond to make a positive impact on local lives. Whether through volunteering, providing essential services, or creating opportunities for others, their dedication strengthens the heart of our community.
Why:
To celebrate teamwork, commitment, and the shared belief that together we can make a difference. cognises someone who has gone above and beyond in looking after and caring for someone or a group of people. They are a credit to their profession and deserve some recognition for all their hard work.

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CHARITY CHAMPION

Recognising: An individual who has dedicated their time, energy, or skills to supporting a charitable cause through volunteering, fundraising, or advocacy.
Why:
To celebrate selfless dedication and kindness that inspires others.

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CARER OF THE YEAR

Recognising: A professional or unpaid carer who has gone above and beyond in providing exceptional care and support.
Why:
To thank those who make a real difference through compassion and dedication.

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SPORTS HERO OF THE YEAR

Recognising: A local athlete, coach, or volunteer who has excelled in their sport — including non-mainstream and disability sports — showing passion, perseverance, and achievement.
Why:
To celebrate sporting excellence in all its forms, from grassroots to elite.

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THE LOYAL COMPANION AWARD

Recognising:An animal whose courage, loyalty, or devotion has made an extraordinary difference — from saving lives and protecting others to providing comfort and support in times of need. This could be a police or service dog, an assistance animal, or a family pet whose actions have been truly heroic.
Why:
To honour the remarkable bond between humans and animals — and the courage, instinct, and love that make them true companions in every sense.

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THE GAME CHANGER AWARD

Recognising: An individual or group who has stood up, spoken out, or taken action to create lasting positive change — whether through campaigning, advocacy, or inspiring others.
Why:
To honour the courage and conviction of those who reshape our world for the better.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Recognising: An individual who has devoted many years to making a lasting, positive difference — through exceptional service, dedication, or leadership within the community. Their lifelong commitment, compassion, and impact have inspired others and left a true legacy of kindness and achievement.
Why:
To honour someone whose enduring contribution continues to shape and uplift our community, reminding us all of the power of a lifetime spent helping others.