The shortlist for the Heart of Salford Awards 2026 has been announced, celebrating the individuals, volunteers and organisations making a real difference across the city during its landmark centenary year.
Organised by Salford CVS and Volunteer Centre Salford, the annual awards highlight the work of the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector, with winners set to be crowned at a ceremony in June.
This year’s finalists span a wide range of categories, from young volunteers to long-serving community champions.
Here is the full shortlist:
Small VCSE Organisation
- Salford Hongkongers
- Salford Survivors
- Talk About It Mate
- The Tatton
Large VCSE Organisation
- Ability Cooperative
- African Rainbow Family
- Salford Foodbank
- Salford Foyer
- START
Equalities Champion
- African Rainbow Family
- Europia
- Owen Power
- Salford Parent Carer Forum
Volunteering Team
- Irlam and Cadishead Disabled Persons Group
- Monton Morris Dancers
- Wardley Gardeners
- Wheels for All
- 100th Salford Scouts
Young Volunteer
- Eli Hassell
- Amelia Naisbitt
- Keira Wilkinson
Community Champion
- Rekha Senapati
- Prudence Jones
- Vicky Donley
Heart of the Community – Long Service
- Ian Wallace
- Chris Lane
- Marcus Taylor
- Ida Bede
Volunteer of the Year
- Amanda Thompson
- Kay Fairhurst
- Evelyn Lo
- Kellie Ryan
The awards continue to shine a spotlight on the often-unsung efforts of people working at the heart of Salford’s communities, with organisers encouraging residents to celebrate those who go above and beyond.
Winners will be announced at the Heart of Salford Awards ceremony on Wednesday 3 June 2026.
