Group
This award honours a community, estate, or local group that’s come together to support one another and build a strong sense of community. Whether through events, shared projects, or simply being there for each other, it’s about recognising the power of collective spirit and resilience.
Crofton Darby and Joan
Crofton Darby and Joan is a volunteer-led group that supports people aged over 50 in Crofton and surrounding areas. The group meets every other week at Crofton Club, offering refreshments, entertainment and regular outings to local attractions. These trips often include visits to Wakefield businesses such as garden centres and cafés, helping to support the wider community.
The group has grown steadily, attracting new members and encouraging participation from men who may find it difficult to join social groups. Their activities help reduce loneliness and build friendships, giving members something to look forward to. The committee members give their time freely and actively seek new ideas through local forums and partnerships.
One of their most memorable events was the 80th VE Day celebration, which brought together members of all ages to honour the past and celebrate the present. Crofton Darby and Joan continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of older residents.
Friends of Moverley Flatts
Friends of Moverley Flatts is a community group formed by residents of a bungalow complex who wanted to reduce social isolation and build stronger connections. Many of the members are older women living alone, and the group has created a safe and welcoming environment where friendships have flourished.
The group organises regular social events, coffee mornings and day trips, including weekly outings to Pontefract for cake and conversation. The group also runs armchair exercise sessions, which were initially funded as a pilot and are now supported through a Vico Homes Community Grant. These sessions promote physical wellbeing and offer an alternative to traditional fitness venues.
By spending more time together in shared spaces, residents have reduced their individual energy use and embraced more sustainable travel options. Friends of Moverley Flatts has given its members a renewed sense of purpose and community.
Normanton School Uniform Exchange
Normanton School Uniform Exchange was founded in 2020 to help families access free school uniform and reduce textile waste. The service is open to anyone in Wakefield, with no referrals or restrictions. Families can take what they need, and donations are accepted but never expected.
Since its launch, the exchange has distributed over 32,500 items to more than 5,800 families, saving an estimated £552,500 in clothing costs. Tracy, the founder, works closely with schools to collect lost property, quality check donations and organise the items by size. She also supports families in crisis and has provided uniform to refugees settling in the area.
The exchange is run entirely by volunteers and has raised over £10,000 for The Well Project, a local charity. It has also saved over 117,000 kilograms of carbon emissions by reusing clothing. Normanton School Uniform Exchange is a model of sustainability, inclusion and community care.
SWAT (Smawthorne Welfare Action Team)
SWAT is a community group that has transformed Smawthorne Welfare Park into a vibrant and inclusive space for people of all ages. The park now features a modern play area, football pitch, sensory garden, memorial garden and picnic tables. It is a place where children play, teenagers meet and older residents connect.
The group works closely with local schools, hosting regular “Tend and Tidy” sessions and festive events such as Christmas carols in the park. They also organise summer galas and community fundraisers, which have raised thousands of pounds to support ongoing improvements.
SWAT’s environmental efforts include tree planting, biodiversity enhancement and educational stalls on recycling and energy saving. The group’s work has improved air quality and created a safe, green space in a densely populated urban area. SWAT continues to lead with dedication and pride, making the park a true community asset.
Warwick Community Group
Warwick Community Group is a volunteer-led initiative that provides a welcoming space for residents to connect, create and support one another. The group runs regular bingo sessions, arts and crafts activities and seasonal events for children, including Halloween treats and Christmas celebrations.
The group is known for its warm and inclusive atmosphere. Members are encouraged to drop in for a chat, take part in activities or simply enjoy a cup of tea. Volunteers give their time freely and support individuals with additional needs, helping them to socialise and learn in a safe environment.
Warwick Community Group also supports local charities by collecting and redistributing toys and clothing. Their work has helped improve the reputation of the estate and shown what can be achieved through kindness and community spirit.
Wrenthorpe and Kirkhamgate Assist
Wrenthorpe and Kirkhamgate Assist was established just before the COVID-19 pandemic and has continued to grow in response to community needs. The group delivers food parcels, provides ready meals to vulnerable residents and runs a twice-weekly community café. The group also helps people fleeing domestic abuse by supplying essential items such as small kitchen appliances and clothing.
The group operates a community stall that supports zero-waste efforts by redistributing food from supermarkets that has passed its best before date. All services are run by volunteers and funded through donations, fundraising events and support from local churches.
Wrenthorpe and Kirkhamgate Assist uses digital tools to manage deliveries and coordinate volunteers across a wide area. Their work reduces poverty, combats loneliness and promotes sustainability. The group is a vital part of the local support network and continues to make a lasting impact.
