En / Cy

Making a Difference: Pauline Richards Award

 

‘The Pauline Richards Making a Difference Award’ is designed by young people for young people – to celebrate those who volunteer and the organisations that make a difference.

 

There will be multiple winners under 2 categories: 

Youth Award– recognising volunteering by young people and their contributing to local groups and communities. 

Adult Award– for individuals and groups working with young people.   

 

Purpose of the awards:  

  • To honour Pauline Richards, her work supporting young people and commitment to youth work. 
  • To recognise both organisations and young people who make a difference in their communities. 
  • Focus on small, meaningful acts and everyday support, not just big achievements. 
  • To highlight the connection between young people and the organisations that support them. 
  • It’s about being nominated and celebrated, not just winning. 

All nominees will receive a letter of appreciation to acknowledge their work and be invited to a ceremony where winners will be presented their awards, providing an opportunity to celebrate and share the work of the winners. 

Nominations will be reviewed by a panel of young people from different community groups across Rhondda Cynon Taf.  Winners will be chosen by the panel using a scoring system. 

 

Nomination window:  Tuesday, 2nd June – Tuesday, 30th of June 

 

 

Nominate using our form below or get in touch if you want an alternative.

 

communityadvice@interlinkrct.org.uk
07514 744322

Nomination Form

We want to celebrate young people who make a meaningful difference through volunteering, leadership and, positive action in their communities.  

Who can be nominated? 

Young people aged 11-25 who volunteer and make a positive difference by: 

  • Volunteering regularly or having completed a significant volunteering project 
  • Showing leadership, kindness, or initiative 
  • Having a positive impact on individuals, organisations, or the wider community 

Nominations can highlight one big achievement or consistent commitment over time. 

Individual or Team Recognition 

Volunteering often happens as part of a team. That’s why nominations can recognise: 

  • An individual volunteer, or 
  • A group of volunteers who work together 

What kind of things might they do? 

We’re especially looking for volunteers who:  

Help behind the scenes: Some volunteers do important work that people don’t always see – helping to set up activities, organise events, tidy up, support staff, or make sure everything runs smoothly. 

Go the extra mile for their community: They give extra time, effort and care to help others. They might step in when help is needed, offer support to others, or take on extra responsibilities. 

Support other people: They might help younger children at play or youth club, or they might be a befriender to older people.  They make people feel safe, welcome and included. 

Make a real impact: Some people lead activities; others quietly help behind the scenes – both are just as important. We want to recognise young people who show kindness, commitment and a genuine desire to help others.  

Award categories help young people think about the difference they make. Awards may focus on things like:  

  • Community Impact Award 
  • Environmental Action Award 
  • Young Carer Contribution Award 
  • Team Volunteering Award 
  • Outstanding Commitment Award 

What happens after a nomination? 

  • Everyone who is nominated will be notified so they know their efforts have been recognised. 
  • They will receive a letter of appreciation recognising their contribution 
  • There will be public acknowledgement on social media, newsletters, and/or display boards (optional) 

Youth Award Winners will receive: 

  • A physical award (such as a trophy, plaque or medal) 
  • A framed certificate recognising their contribution 
  • An activity or experience(such as an escape room, a day trip or a shadowing / work experience opportunity) 
  • £50–£200 development bursary (which could be used for training, youth programmes, equipment for community projects) 

Nomination window:  2nd June – 30th of June 

 

This award recognises adults who make a positive difference in the lives of young people. 

Many adults work or volunteer alongside young people and help them feel heard, supported, empowered and inspired. This award is a chance for young people to say thank you.  Nominated by young people, chosen by young people. 

Who can nominate? 

Young people aged 11–25. 

What kind of adults are we looking for? 

This award is about recognising adults who have supported you or other young people in your community. They are approachable friendly and have a genuine interest in the lives of young people. They: 

  • Listen to young people and value their ideas 
  • Help young people feel confident and empowered 
  • Offer support, encouragement or guidance 
  • Inspire young people to try new things 
  • Create safe, welcoming spaces for young people 
  • They bring, energy, fun and innovation to projects and activities 

Adult Award Winners receive: 

  • A physical award(such as a trophy, plaque, medal or glass award) 
  • A certificate recognising their contribution 
  • A feature story highlighting their work 
  • A financial contribution to their organisation  

Winners (or winning teams) will be chosen by a panel of young people and notified prior to the awards ceremony where public presentation will be optional. 

It’s not just about big achievements, it’s about small meaningful acts, too.   

So, if you know a young volunteer or a supportive organisation that deserves a big THANK YOU, then please nominate them and tell us why they deserve to win: 

Nomination window:  2nd June – 30th of June