Meet the local heroes honoured at Blackburn with Darwen’s Volunteer Awards 2026

The people and community groups making a difference across Blackburn with Darwen have been recognised at the 2026 Community Volunteer Awards, with 400 nominations submitted to celebrate local volunteering.

The annual awards ceremony took place at King George’s Hall in Blackburn on Thursday 5 November, bringing together volunteers, community organisations, families and supporters for an evening recognising those who give their time to help others.

This year’s event marked a return to the historic venue following its restoration, with broadcaster Graham Liver presenting the awards.

Among those honoured were volunteers supporting local charities, community centres, youth organisations, environmental initiatives and services helping some of the borough’s most vulnerable residents.

The Community Volunteer Awards are jointly organised by Blackburn with Darwen Council and Community CVS, with support from local businesses and organisations.

Celebrating Blackburn with Darwen’s community spirit

A total of 400 nominations were received for this year’s awards, recognising the dedication of individuals and groups working throughout the borough.

Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:

“Blackburn with Darwen has always been a borough with a strong community spirit and our volunteers are at the heart of that. Every day, people give their time, often without expecting anything in return, to support their neighbours, help those in need and make a positive difference to their communities.

“The stories behind this year’s nominations are a wonderful reminder of the kindness and generosity that exists across the borough. I would like to congratulate all the winners and nominees and offer my sincere thanks to everyone who volunteers. Your contributions, however big or small, help make Blackburn with Darwen a special place.”

Garth Hodgkinson, Chief Executive of Community CVS, added:

“What a fantastic evening celebrating the incredible community spirit we have here in Blackburn with Darwen. I am always amazed by the dedication, generosity and voluntary work taking place across the borough.

“Congratulations to all the winners, runners up and nominees.

“Thank you to everyone who gives their time to support others and make a difference in our communities. If you have been thinking about getting involved in volunteering but haven’t quite taken the plunge, why not give it a go? Every little bit helps and together we can achieve so much more.”

Who won the 2026 Community Volunteer Awards?

The awards recognised contributions across a range of categories, celebrating both individual volunteers and the organisations making a difference in their communities.

People Award

• Individual winner: Graham Neild – Blackburn District Scouts
• Group winner: Darwen Ducks

Prosperity Award

• Individual winner: Lisa Brabrook – No.1 Coffee Shop
• Group winner: No. 1 Coffee Shop

Planet Award

• Individual winner: Maryam Abdulrashid – BwD Recycle Campaign
• Group winner: East Lancashire Hospice Darwen Shop

Peace Award

• Individual winner: Naseem Khan – UCTV
• Group winner: Blackburn Magistrate Witness Service

Place Award

• Individual winner: Lisa Johnson – St James Community Centre
• Group winner: Brama Group

Participation Award

• Individual winner: Lawrence Ashworth – Blackburn District Scouts
• Group winner: Blackburn District Scouts

Special awards recognise outstanding contributions

Alongside the main categories, several special awards recognised individuals and organisations for their dedication and service to the community.

• CVS Special Award for Outstanding Service: Iqbal Bhai – Blackburn United FC
• Young Person Award: Adam Esat – Blackburn Youth Zone
• Lifetime Award: Margaret Jepson – Samaritans
• Volunteer of the Year: Joyce Hope – St Luke’s Church
• Group of the Year: East Lancashire Hospice CaST

Recognising the difference volunteers make

Denise Park, Chief Executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council, praised the contribution volunteers make throughout the borough.

“It was fantastic to see so many people come together to celebrate the incredible contributions volunteers make across Blackburn with Darwen.

“Our volunteers play an important role in creating connected, supportive and thriving communities. Their efforts can sometimes happen quietly, but the impact they have on individuals, families and the community is immeasurable.

“Thank you to everyone who gives their time and energy to help others, you should be incredibly proud of the difference you make.”

Local businesses support the awards

The Community Volunteer Awards are supported by businesses and organisations from across the area, helping to make the annual celebration possible.

This year’s sponsors included:

• Spark
• EQ Care Group
• Chubb
• Spring North
• Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service
• MCM Accounting
• The Wish Centre
• Newground Together
• Lancashire Women
• VOICE
• Blackburn with Darwen Age UK
• PM+M
• Room to Reward
• East Lancashire Hospice
• Blackburn College
• Menzies Brighter Thinking
• Blackburn with Darwen Youth Zone
• Shelter
• IDOX
• Child Action NorthWest (CANW)

The organisers thanked the sponsors, volunteers and everyone involved in supporting the awards.

The evening recognised not only those receiving awards, but also the many people who regularly give their time to support neighbours, charities and community organisations throughout Blackburn and Darwen.