New Community Awards proposed to recognise valuable contributions in the Harborough District

Members of the public would be able to nominate community groups, charities, volunteers, and others who make a valuable contribution to their local community within the Harborough District for specific awards to recognise and thank them publicly. 

It is proposed that the Community Awards would be funded from the Harborough Lotto which currently generates a small income of around £8k a year.  

Over the last 12 months the council has significantly increased investment into community focused initiatives; with a brand-new Community Development Team, a new £1m Community Grant fund, and a range of community improvements such as public realm and parks. 

If agreed by Cabinet, the first awards event would take place before Christmas 2024 and would be held in the Council Chamber. Future events would be rotated around different venues across the district and could be bigger, with business sponsorship being a potential source of income to cover some of the cost of the event itself. 

Cllr Knowles, Leader of Harborough District Council, said: “I’m looking forward to considering this report with Cabinet colleagues as it is a great opportunity to recognise the valuable work that takes place around the district and sometimes goes unnoticed. This idea was put forward to the council as a suggestion and I’m delighted officers have put forward a proposal for Cabinet to consider.” 

Details of the individual awards and criteria and how to nominate an individual or group would be announced in the coming weeks if the proposals are approved by Cabinet on 9 September 2024.