The Civic Awards celebrate the everyday heroes who quietly transform their communities, from neighbours who bring warmth, safety and kindness to their streets to dedicated volunteers and inspirational young people.
Councillor Linda Bird, the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich said: “These awards are an excellent reminder that not all heroes wear capes or have superhuman strength.
“True heroes are those who give their time, heart, and energy to others without ever seeking recognition.
“Perhaps you know a friend whose quick thinking in an emergency saved a life, or a family member who selflessly volunteers to help others.
“This is your chance to honour them with a nomination and let them know their impact has not gone unnoticed.”
Nominations are open until 5pm on January 30 2026 and can be submitted via the online form, available on the Royal Greenwich website, or by emailing mayor@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.
Anyone living, working or volunteering in Royal Greenwich can be nominated, but you cannot nominate yourself.
Read more:
The 2026 Civic Awards will see the introduction of a brand-new category to recognise the extraordinary dedication and support of unpaid carers, alongside other categories including community service, the environment, arts and culture, teaching and acts of courage.
The full list of award categories for 2026 are:
- Act of Courage Award: For someone who has shown remarkable courage and/or bravery.
- Arts and Entertainment Award: For a person or group who have made an outstanding contribution to arts, culture and entertainment in the borough.
- Community Award: For a person or group who make an extra effort to contribute to the community.
- Environment Award: For commitment to improving the environment or tackling climate change.
- Good Neighbour Award: For a person who is helping their neighbours and making their community a happier and safer place.
- Leader’s Special Award: Awarded by the Leader for showing outstanding commitment and leadership in the borough.
- Lifetime Achievement Award: For an individual or organisation who has made an outstanding contribution to the borough over an extended period of time (minimum 20 years).
- Sporting Achievement Award: To recognise a person who has achieved success through playing, coaching or organising sports in the borough.
- Teacher/Teaching Assistant of the Year Award: To nominate an educator who is doing an outstanding job every day.
- Unpaid Carers Award: To recognise the contributions of unpaid carers in the borough.
- Volunteer Award: For a person who goes out of their way to help others.
- Young Person’s Outstanding Achievement Award: For a person under 25 years of age who has made an outstanding contribution to their community.
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich said: “I am eager to see the applications and uncover the inspiring stories of those who lift others up, placing their community at the heart of everything they do.
“These awards exist for one simple reason: to say we see you, and we are grateful.
“I am also delighted to once again present the special Leader’s Award, honouring an individual whose outstanding commitment and leadership inspire us all.”
The 2026 Civic Awards ceremony, where the winners and their guests will attend an evening dedicated to honouring their contributions, is set to take place on March 6, 2026, at Woolwich Town Hall.
