Celebrating Our Winners

Richard and Michelle Daniels, founders of Forever Stars, received the **James E. Smith Special Recognition Award** in recognition of their extraordinary courage, compassion and dedication to supporting families affected by baby loss. Following the devastating stillbirth of their daughter Emily in 2013, they turned personal tragedy into a remarkable legacy of hope, establishing a charity that has transformed bereavement care across Nottinghamshire. Through the creation of dedicated hospital Serenity Suites, a remembrance garden and vital family support services, they have provided comfort and dignity to countless grieving families. Their determination, leadership and unwavering commitment embody the very spirit of this prestigious award.

Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT) was named **UK Charity of the Year** in recognition of its exceptional impact, innovation and commitment to improving patient care. Through pioneering medical research, cutting-edge equipment, vital hospital services and outstanding community fundraising, ACT has demonstrated how charitable support can transform healthcare. Having raised more than £150 million over three decades, the charity continues to deliver meaningful improvements for patients and families, going above and beyond what NHS funding alone can provide.

The Sense communications team received recognition for their powerful storytelling and impactful campaigns that continue to raise awareness and champion inclusion for people with complex disabilities.

Radar Healthcare was praised for its ground-breaking use of technology to improve safety, compliance, and patient outcomes within the health and social care sector.

For two decades of compassion and commitment, The British Hen Welfare Trust was honoured for its exceptional work rescuing and rehoming over one million hens, inspiring a global movement for animal welfare.

With its innovative approach to education, therapy, and independence, The Percy Hedley Foundation was celebrated for transforming the lives of children and adults with disabilities across the North East.

Recognised for its pioneering therapeutic work supporting families affected by domestic abuse and trauma, The For Baby’s Sake Trust received the Mental Health Impact Award for demonstrating lasting, evidence-based change.

Safe and Sound Group, alongside its partner organisations, was commended for an outstanding example of collaborative working, creating safer futures for young people at risk of exploitation.

For their tireless work empowering residents and promoting social cohesion, Better Communities Bradford received the Community Impact Award, a testament to their positive influence and lasting legacy.

Eighty-four-year-old volunteer James Hopgood received an emotional standing ovation from everyone in the room as he accepted his award. Honoured for his decades of service and unwavering commitment to his charity, Peterborough Sailability, James embodied the very spirit of volunteering that lies at the heart of the UK charity sector.

Brian Harpur’s remarkable fundraising efforts for Naomi House & Jacksplace were recognised with this well-deserved accolade. His creativity, energy, and unwavering commitment have directly improved the lives of children and families across the region.

With 82% of the public vote, the People’s Choice Award went to The Mountbatten Group of Hospices, which also collected the UK Hospice of the Year Award. Their double win reflects both professional excellence and deep community admiration for their compassionate end-of-life care across the Isle of Wight and Hampshire.

Recognised for its exceptional care and unwavering support for children and young people with life-limiting conditions, Martin House Children’s Hospice received the night’s top honour. The judges praised its holistic approach to family-centred care and its continued commitment to compassionate innovation.

A respected advocate for mental health and the founder of The Silver Line, Sophie Andrews OBE, received the James E. Smith Special Recognition Award for her lifelong dedication to supporting vulnerable and isolated individuals.