A CHARITY which aims to inspire social change is urging people to nominate community projects that have had an impact in their neighbourhood.

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), an independent organisation working to solve UK poverty, is supporting the Best Community Project at this year’s Community Pride Awards.

Claire Townson, director of corporate services at JRF, said: "We are delighted to once again sponsor the best community project at the Community Pride Awards.

"Our York heritage is important to us and we welcome the opportunity to continue to support local projects.

"Now more than ever, communities are so important, and we know that small projects can make big differences.

"We wish all the entrants the best of luck."

The York Scrubs team scooped the award for Best Community Project last year. With over 300 volunteers, they have been making personal protective equipment (PPE) to support staff working on the frontline in the battle against Covid throughout the pandemic.

Other finalists in the category were Music Education Group (MEG) - which aims to bring music education and activities to the local community, where music may be lacking or underfunded, providing more people the opportunity to experience music and Yorks Children in Care Council and Care Leavers Forum - who have have maintained a strong presence during the pandemic and continued to challenge, inspire and share the views of young people.

This year’s Community Pride awards include prizes for Person of the Year, Spirit of Youth, Public Sector Hero, Sporting Hero, Volunteer of the Year, Charity Fundraiser of the Year, Child of the Year, Best Community Project, Health Service Hero, The Special Recognition Nursing Award, GP Practice of the Year, Doctor of the Year, The Mental Health Care Award and Carer of the Year.

All nominees for the Community Pride awards must live in, or contribute to life in, the City of York Council area.

Entries can be posted to York Community Pride Awards, The Press, 84-86 Walmgate, York YO1 9YN, or submit your nomination on The Press website.

The closing date for entries is Friday, June 25.