Nominations flood in for new ‘Spark Awards’ to celebrate Peterborians who support and inspire children

Launched on June 9, the inaugural Children’s Spark Awards are the brainchild of Councillor Katy Cole, who has long wanted Peterborough to have its own local Pride of Britain-type awards.

“Nominations have been open for about a week and we’ve had 71 nominations so far,” she said, “which is fantastic”

Cllr Cole told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) of her own pride at seeing the Sparks finally take off in the city:

“I could not be more proud that the Spark Awards have been launched here in Peterborough,” she said, adding: “It’s a first for the city!”

The Spark Awards aim to showcase the dedication, care and innovation of everyone who works with (or for) children in Peterborough, from professionals and frontline staff to volunteers and community champions.

“Every day, there are individuals and teams making a lasting difference in children’s lives, often without seeking recognition, and these awards are our chance to shine a light on their compassion, commitment and care,” Cllr Cole explained.

While Cllr Cole is keen to encourage nominations across all of the 14 categories, there is one award in particular that she wanted to highlight to the LDRS.

“It’s called the Lifelong Dedication Award,” she said.

“There are people who have spent a lifetime supporting children – whether it be a foster carer who has had hundreds of children come through their house, or a dinner lady who has been at the school from the day-dot – these people dedicate their whole life to the betterment of children.”

Cllr Cole made a direct appeal to the general public to ensure such special people are recognised:

“If you know anyone [like this], put your nomination in!”

Nominations for the 14 award categories (listed) are open until July 31. Judging will take place following the deadline, and finalists will be announced and invited to attend the Spark Award Ceremony, which will take place on October 22 at Peterborough’s Marriott Hotel.

Award categories:

Children’s Champion Award — for an individual who has gone above and beyond in advocating for children’s rights and welfare;

Outstanding Team Award — recognising a team whose collaborative work has transformed outcomes for children;

Partnership Excellence Award — awarded to a partnership (across agencies or sectors) that has demonstrated exceptional joint working to support children;

Lifelong Service Award — for an individual with a long-standing, exceptional career in children’s services;

Innovation in Practice Award — for new or creative approaches making a tangible difference for children;

Young Person’s Voice Award — for professionals or teams who have best involved children and young people in service improvement or decision-making;

Voluntary Sector Star — highlighting outstanding contribution from a voluntary or community group or individual volunteer;

Health and Wellbeing Award – for outstanding impact on children’s mental or physical health;

Education Award – for exceptional support for children in educational settings;

Safeguarding Award – for excellence in safeguarding children from harm or risk;

Teacher of the Year – for demonstrating exceptional dedication and knowledge;

SEND Hero – for contributing to positive outcomes for children with additional needs;

Sports Hero – for their commitment and passion towards involving children in sport, health and fitness;

Young Person’s Award — nominated and voted for exclusively by young people and care‑experienced individuals. Awarded to one person who children feel has been a shining light in the lives of children.

The Spark Awards are sponsored by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and Morgan Sindall Construction. To find out more and make a nomination, visit: https://sparks.peterborough.gov.uk/