Penrith Community Awards

Penrith Community Awards 2025/26 Winners

Councillor Val Bowen (Chair of Penrith Town Council & Penrith Mayor), Lily, Zahraa & Jamie (UCC Students) and Stephen Gilby (Headteacher of Ullswater Community College).

UCC Wellbeing Champions

Community Group Winner

Councillor Val Bowen (Chair of Penrith Town Council & Penrith Mayor) & Rosemary Glassbrook.

Rosemary Glassbrook

Community Recognition Winner

Councillor Val Bowen (Chair of Penrith Town Council & Penrith Mayor), Elizabeth Hudspith-Spence.

Elizabeth Hudspith-Spence

Youth Community Recognition Winner

About the Awards

The Awards are designed to recognise:

  • Individuals or groups who have made a positive difference to the lives and wellbeing of Penrith residents
  • People who support charitable or voluntary work in the town
  • Individuals who volunteer or who have volunteered for Penrith Town Council
  • Those who demonstrate exceptional citizenship and dedication to the local community
  • Nominations are made by the people of Penrith, who help identify the individuals and groups whose work deserves public recognition.

Awards Categories

Community Recognition Award

For individuals aged 21 or older who live or are based within the parish of Penrith.

Prizes: £50 gift voucher, Civic Badge, and framed certificate.

Youth Community Recognition Award

For individuals up to 21 years of age who live or are based within the parish of Penrith.

Prizes: £50 gift voucher, Civic Badge, and framed certificate.

Community Group Award

For community groups or organisations that are based in Penrith or whose work directly benefits the people of Penrith.

Prizes: Framed certificate and a £150 donation to a charity selected by the winning group.

Mayor's Medals

Up to four recipients chosen by the Mayor of Penrith, awarded at the Mayor’s discretion.

In most years, a maximum of one award per category is presented.

Who can be nominated?

  • Community and Youth awards are limited to individuals who live or are based within the parish boundary.
  • Organisations and groups may be nominated regardless of where they are based, provided their work benefits Penrith.
  • Current serving Penrith Town Council Councillors cannot be nominated.
  • All nominations must be submitted via the official application form or online application form.
  • Nominations must be received by 12 noon on 1 February each year. Late submissions cannot be considered.

Use this link to view the Penrith Parish Boundary.

How Nominations are Judged

Nominations are considered by the Communities Committee using a structured scorecard. Each nomination is assessed on:

1. Measurable Impact

Evidence such as community growth, funds raised, or increased participation.

2. Community Engagement

Examples of involvement, endorsements, or public support.

3. Relevance & Alignment

How closely the nominee’s work supports Penrith’s needs.

4. Passion & Dedication

Commitment, positivity, and genuine community spirit.

Committee members must agree unanimously on each rating. In cases of disagreement or a tie, the Chair of Communities Committee will make the final decision. The Committee’s decisions are final.

How to Submit a Nomination

Nominations for the 2026/27 Penrith Community Awards will open later this autumn.

Details on how to nominate, eligibility and key dates will be shared on this page once the nomination process opens. Please check back for the latest information.