Prestigious ‘safe place’ award triumph for Peterborough Queensgate's Roots & Rise
A community, sports, and arts hub in Peterborough’s Queensgate Shopping Centre has just won a prestigious ‘safe place’ award.
Roots & Rise has been named winner of the Outstanding Safe Setting/Space award at the 2026 Workplace Violence Reduction Awards.
The award celebrates organisations and initiatives that are making a significant impact in creating safer environments and reducing violence within workplaces and communities.
Roots & Rise, which is located on the Upper Mall, between Primark and New Look, was selected as the winner in a highly respected category focused on environments that actively support individuals through compassion, understanding and best practice.
It provides a safe space at the Queensgate for troubled and disengaged youth, offering positive outlets through football, boxing, art, and mentoring.
From rooftop kickabouts and non-contact boxing sessions to creative workshops in art, lyric writing, and digital storytelling, the project encourages self-expression, confidence, and wellbeing.
It seeks to help young people find purpose and pride within their community and to reduce antisocial behaviour and open ways to education, volunteering, and employment.
Roots & Rise was honoured during the awards ceremony with judges recognising the organisation’s commitment to providing a supportive, secure and empowering space for those its partners.
The Workplace Violence Reduction Awards bring together organisations, professionals and community leaders from across the UK who are dedicated to promoting safety, wellbeing and positive change.
Afterwards, Catherine Lambert, Centre Director at Queensgate said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this award and for the work of Roots & Rise to be recognised on a national level.
"Creating a safe, welcoming and supportive environment is at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition is a reflection of the passion and dedication of our entire team.
She added: “We are committed to ensuring that everyone who engages with Roots & Rise feels heard, respected and supported, and this award reinforces the importance of continuing that mission every single day.”
The award win marks another milestone for Roots & Rise as the organisation continues to expand its impact and support across the community.
The Workplace Violence Reduction Awards celebrate excellence in reducing workplace violence and recognising organisations that are leading the way in creating safer spaces for employees, service users and the wider public.