As part of the 2025 Make a Difference Awards, the BBC has celebrated more than 300 winners, selected from thousands of nominations across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The awards recognise exceptional acts of kindness, resilience, and community spirit demonstrated by individuals making a meaningful difference in their local areas.
Throughout September, 40 award ceremonies were held across the UK. BBC Radio Scotland, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru, BBC Radio Ulster/Foyle, and BBC Radio nan Gàidheal joined all 39 local BBC radio stations in England to honour unsung heroes whose contributions are positively shaping their communities.
Award recipients included devoted volunteers, inspirational community leaders, and everyday individuals who have gone above and beyond to support others. In a unique addition, twenty animals were also recognised in the “Animal” category, with winners ranging from birds of prey and a tortoise to a variety of loyal dogs.
These awards shine a spotlight on those whose efforts are transforming lives and strengthening the social fabric of communities across the UK. Among this year’s inspiring recipients:
- Janet Willoner, from Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire, received the Green Award from BBC Radio York for her environmental efforts, having grown and donated over 4,000 trees from her own garden.
- Shani Stephens, from Swansea, was honoured with the Volunteer Award by BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru for her work at the Ty Fforest Resource Hub in Brynhyfryd, ensuring local residents have access to food and essential support.
* Amongst winners from BBC Radio Scotland and BBC Radio nan Gàidheal’s awards, Pauline Moriarty, from Troon, won the Fundraiser Award for her extraordinary strength, compassion and dedication to raising funds for her charity Beautiful Inside and Out. After losing her daughter Jenna to suicide aged 13, Pauline founded the charity which supports those affected by suicide through counselling and therapy.
- Support2Gether, a Northern Ireland-based initiative founded by two mothers with lived experience of anxiety and postnatal depression, received the Community Award from BBC Radio Ulster / BBC Radio Foyle for their work supporting parents through challenging times.
- Morag, a mountain rescue dog, was recognised in the Animal Category by BBC Radio Cumbria for her vital role in rescuing stranded walkers and climbers in the Lake District.
Chris Burns, Controller of Local Audio Commissioning, said:
“The BBC Make a Difference Awards are a powerful reminder of the compassion and generosity that exists in every corner of the UK. These stories of selflessness and community spirit are truly inspiring, and we’re proud to celebrate the people who transform lives every day.”
Now in its fourth year, the Make a Difference Awards continue to grow in reach and impact, offering recognition to those who work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to uplift and support others.
For more information about the awards and this year’s winners, visit bbc.co.uk/makeadifference
HM3