Charities and Community Interest Companies (CICs) in Nottingham are celebrating after receiving a prestigious High Sheriff Award 2021 from Dame Elizabeth Fradd (DBE DL), the High Sheriff of Nottingham.
The awards are presented each year to individuals and community groups across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, in order to recognise and honour the important work they do to help others.
This year, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was not possible for the High Sheriff to hold a ceremony to honour the award winners. Instead, Dame Elizabeth was able to visit the majority of recipients individually, to personally present them with their awards, at a safe, social distance.
All the award winners, based in or supporting people in Nottingham City, are listed below:
- Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Refugee Forum
- Breaking Barriers Building Bridges
- Rene House Community Interest Company (CIC)
- Positively Empowered Kids Community Interest Company (CIC)
- Stone Soup Academy
- Base 51
- Stonebridge City Farm
Many of the charities which received awards, were recognised for their community efforts during the pandemic, one of which was Stonebridge City Farm.
During lockdown, the farm has delivered fresh fruit and vegetables to individuals in need or shielding. Vulnerable Staff and volunteers have also been supported through regular contact with staff at the farm.
Following the award presentation at Stonebridge City Farm, Dame Elizabeth said, "I was proud to be able to present Peter Armitage, General Manager of Stonebridge City Farm with a High Sheriff Award in recognition of the appreciation of residents of Nottinghamshire and beyond for the contribution the farm makes to enhancing the lives of so many.
"I have been particularly impressed by the way staff and volunteers, whatever their role or ability, are supported and encouraged, especially during the past year. The charity is an exemplar of a well-led organisation that understands the core values that ensure the farm is a successful and happy place to be ".
Base 51 was also thrilled to receive its award at their socially distanced presentation event. The award was received by CEO Jo Jepson and Chair of Board of Trustees Peter Morley (pictured above) on behalf of the charity.
Jo said, “I’m very proud that Base 51 has been selected to receive the award. Our dedicated staff, both past and present have received well-deserved recognition for their efforts both during the pandemic and before it. I hope that we can use this as a springboard to elevate awareness of our work, it’s never been more important for young people to know we are still here to support them.”
Dame Elizabeth said, “I am proud of each and every one of this year's recipients. Collectively, they represent some of the best examples of self-sacrifice, passion and determination to improve the lot of those less fortunate than themselves.
"All are working to improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable people living in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Many are focused on supporting young people and nearly all have a component of mental health support built within their programmes. I would like to thank them all, together with the many organisations I haven’t been able to visit, they are all brilliant”.
