It’s time to celebrate the extraordinary individuals and groups who make Bexley a better place to live. The Civic Recognition Awards are back for 2025, honouring those who go above and beyond to create a positive impact in their communities.

Residents are invited to nominate their local heroes for this year’s awards, ensuring their inspiring contributions don’t go unnoticed. Whether it’s a young volunteer, a long-serving community champion, or someone who has achieved exceptional success, this is your chance to give them the recognition they deserve.

The awards are made in two different categories, recognising voluntary service or to recognise exceptional success in any field for the Outstanding Achievement category:

• Civic Recognition of Young People: For young people up to age 18 who have undertaken voluntary service to the community or an individual
• Civic Recognition of Voluntary Service by Adults: For people over the age of 18 who have undertaken voluntary service to the community or an individual over a number of years
• Civic Recognition of Outstanding Achievement: For people of any age or organisation/business who, during the year, have achieved outstanding success in any walk of life, including voluntary service, sport and culture, business or acts of bravery or courage

With nearly 100 nominations received last year, the awards are a testament to Bexley’s vibrant community spirit and its commitment to celebrating those who inspire and uplift others.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Baroness O'Neill of Bexley OBE, said:

Bexley is home to countless individuals who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to helping others, whether it’s through volunteering, supporting a cause, or simply being there for their community. These awards are our opportunity to celebrate their efforts and show our appreciation for everything they do to making Bexley even better.”

Mayor of Bexley, Cllr Sue Gower MBE JP, added:

Every day, people across Bexley are making a difference through their hard work, compassion and commitment. If you know someone – whether an individual, group, or organisation – who deserves to be recognised for their incredible contribution, please take the time to nominate them. Let’s ensure their efforts get the recognition they deserve.”

Nominations for the 2025 Civic Recognition Awards are now open. Residents are encouraged to submit nominations online through the official form.

For more information or to request a copy of the nomination form in a different format, please email mayors.office@bexley.gov.uk or call 020 3045 5288. The deadline for nominations is Friday 21 February 2025.

The Civic Recognition Panel will meet to consider all nominations on Monday 17 March 2025 and will recommend to the Council the names of the persons or organisations to be given civic recognition. The awards themselves will be made at a ceremony on the evening of 13 May 2025.