Nominate heroes of pandemic for awards

NOMINATIONS have opened for awards that will celebrate the “real world heroes of the pandemic”.

The 2022 VAL Awards invite the public to celebrate people, groups and organisations that make up the voluntary and charity sector in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

The awards will, for the first time, be opening up for nominations in Rutland.

Kevin Allen-Khimani, executive manager – public sector contracts and projects at Voluntary Action Leicestershire, said: “We’re really excited to announce the launch of the new-look 2022 VAL Awards.

“The past two years has seen unprecedented pressure and stresses on our charity and voluntary sector here in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

“We want to hear from the public and encourage them to nominate the real world heroes of the pandemic – the people, organisations and businesses that went above and beyond to help those more vulnerable in our society.”

Dr Nik Kotecha, Morningside’s chief executive, said: “Morningside Pharmaceuticals is incredibly proud to be headline sponsors of the VAL Awards once more.

“It’s fantastic to see that the voluntary sector is continuing to be championed across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

“The past couple of years have been incredibly tough and I know that there are some unsung heroes who battled through the pandemic and provided unwavering support to those who needed it the most.

“Personally, I am very much looking forward to celebrating the achievements of these organisations, groups and individuals at the awards and giving them the praise they very much deserve.”

The awards ceremony in September will take place in the Grand Hall at Leicester’s The Mercure Grand Hotel.

Nominations should be submitted by August 25 via: