Press release

Biddick Hall Community Focus Group wins Big Society Award

The Biddick Hall Community Focus Group has won the Prime Minister's Big Society Award.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

The Biddick Hall Community Focus Group - a project that has transformed the community through local action on health, crime, employment and activities for young people - is the latest winner of the Prime Minister’s Big Society Award.

The Prime Minister said:

Congratulations to the Biddick Hall Community Focus Group on becoming a Big Society Award winner. Their action plan to improve the area has delivered great projects such as a new Multi Use Games Area, a new play park, a community cafe and a community gym for local residents, making a real difference to people living on the estate. “Everyone involved in this project deserves recognition for transforming the lives of others in their community. The dedication and innovation shown by the group is a proud example of the Big Society I want to see across the UK.

The Biddick Hall Focus Community Group said:

Whilst Biddick Hall Estate is still classed as a very deprived area, we are very proud of our achievements to date. There is still a lot of work to be done in our community which we will continue to do to the best of our ability. We are very proud to be able to do our small part and help in any way we can, and will continue to do so.

Big Society Awards

The Prime Minister recently launched a new weekly award that recognises the best examples of the Big Society in action taking place all around the country. As well as celebrating the fantastic work already being carried out across the country, the Prime Minister hopes that the Big Society Awards will inspire many more people to get involved in their community. The Prime Minister said:

There are some amazing projects and remarkable voluntary work going on in towns and cities up and down the country, by all kinds of organisations from large enterprises to tiny grassroots schemes and inspirational individuals. “These awards are a chance to pay tribute to those making a valuable contribution to their community, the real champions of the Big Society, but perhaps more importantly, I hope they will motivate many others to take action, get involved and drive change in their area.

Individuals, businesses, charities, community groups and other organisations are all eligible if they illustrate the Big Society in action. These might be:

  • People or groups who are bringing their community together and helping to give people more power to take decisions and shape their area
  • People who are transforming our public services, staff setting up their own cooperatives, or new providers or frontline staff finding innovative ways to deliver better services to the public
  • Or people who are giving their time and money to help others, the unsung heroes changing lives in every neighbourhood of the country.

People can submit nominations via the nomination form. Nominees will then go through a selection process which will eventually involve a panel of previous winners and individuals from civil society organisations, Government and the private sector. Award winners will receive a certificate from the Prime Minister and will be invited to a regular Big Society Award Winners Reception at Downing Street.

Read more: Nominate a Big Society Award winner

Published 14 January 2011