Extraordinary people sought from communities across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
The BBC is inviting people across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to shine a light on the unsung heroes in their community for the 2026 Make a Difference Awards.
The awards bring together BBC Radio Scotland, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru, BBC Radio Ulster/Foyle, and BBC Radio nan Gaidheal, alongside 39 local BBC radio stations in England, in a united effort to recognise acts of kindness and extraordinary contribution across the UK.
Nominations will open on Monday, 23 February at 7.30pm, on BBC One with Gaby Roslin launching the campaign on The One Show with BBC Radio Scotland broadcaster and singer Michelle McManus, alongside some of last year’s award winners.
Also on BBC One, Morning Live will once again champion the Community Group Award, which demonstrate of how collective efforts can make a real difference. Nominations close at 5pm on Tuesday, 31 March.
Listeners can nominate their local heroes in eight different categories (see below). Since the awards began in 2022, thousands of people have been recognised for going the extra mile to support others. Last year, over 12,500 people were nominated for an award. The aim remains simple, to celebrate everyday heroes who make life better for those around them in their local communities.
Rhuanedd Richards, BBC Director of Nations said: “The Make a Difference Awards are a powerful reminder of the kindness, generosity and community spirit that exists in every community across the UK. Our local and national radio stations and online teams are uniquely placed to tell these stories, and we’re proud to come together to celebrate those who are making a real difference to the lives of others.”
Winners will be announced in September at Make a Difference Awards events hosted by local and nations stations across the UK.
For a full list of categories, see below – and details of how to nominate someone – go to bbc.co.uk/makeadifference, where you can also see full Terms and our Privacy Notice.
Nominations are open now and close at 5pm on Tuesday 31st March.
This year’s award categories are:
The Volunteer Award: Awarded to an individual who makes a notable difference to the community by giving their time voluntarily to help others.
The Community Group Award (supported by Morning Live): Awarded to a group of people who have helped to change the lives of others within their community.
The Fundraiser Award: Awarded to an individual or group of people who have gone the extra mile to raise funds for a good cause.
The Young Hero Award: awarded to an individual or group of young people under 16 who have made a positive impact in their community or achieved something exceptional.
The Great Neighbour Award: Awarded to an individual who helps to make the neighbourhood a better place to live or work, either on a regular basis or through a single act of kindness.
The Active Award: Awarded to an individual or group of people who have used physical activity or sport as a way of improving the lives of those in their community.
The Environmental Award: Awarded to an individual or group of people who improve or conserve their local environment.
The Animal Award: Awarded to either a remarkable animal that improves people’s lives, or an individual or group of people who improve the welfare of animals.
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