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Our winners will receive
A special engraved glass award, a certificate commemorating their achievement and a £200 cash prize.
Plus, you could win something too - everyone who fills out a nomination will be entered into a prize draw to win £100.
Here are the categories
Nominate someone who: Is making a difference in your neighbourhood
This award recognises inspirational people who go the extra mile to make a positive difference in their neighbourhood. They might volunteer each week with a local group or fundraise tirelessly for a good cause. Or maybe they have achieved something against the odds or triumphed over tricky circumstances.
Nominate someone who: Brightens your day with small acts of kindness
This is for those everyday heroes whose small actions make a world of difference. Think help putting the bins out each week; a home-cooked meal delivered to the doorstep, or watering the plants when you’re away on holiday. It might be something as simple as a friendly face to have a chat with over a cup of tea.
Nominate someone who: Is doing great things for the environment
This award is for a green-fingered person or project doing great things to enhance their local environment. Maybe their hanging baskets brighten the street every spring; perhaps they’ve transformed a community garden or kick-started a successful allotment project. From litter-picking to recycling projects, we want to celebrate the eco champions doing great things to benefit our neighbourhoods now and in the future.
Nominate: A community group or charity who is making a positive impact on your neighbourhood
This award celebrates the wonderful work of charities, community groups and third sector organisations across our neighbourhoods of Greater Manchester. Perhaps they’ve been there to support people through the cost-of-living crisis or maybe they’re providing opportunities for social get-togethers to combat loneliness.
Check out last years’ winners here
Nominate someone, just fill out the form below
The closing date is Friday 2nd January.
Would you prefer to fill out a paper form? Just give us a call on 0300 561 1111 or drop us an email: contact@irwellvalley.co.uk.

Terms and Conditions: All entries must be submitted through our online form or via paper entry sheet. Entries received after the deadline date of 2/1/2026 will not be considered. Previous recipients of a Heart of the Community Award are not eligible to win. The judge’s decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into. All facts submitted on your entry must be accurate to the best of your knowledge. We reserve the right to withdraw a category at any time. We reserve the right to extend the entry deadline.