Scunthorpe Hosts BBC Radio Humberside Make A Difference Awards Celebrating Community Heroes

Scunthorpe saw the BBC Radio Humberside Make A Difference 2025 Awards in the spotlight this week, acknowledging outstanding community contributions across Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire. The Baths Hall hosted the event, recognising local individuals for their extraordinary work, among them, young Emily Andrews, recipient of the Young Hero award. Emily, just six years old, collaborated with Goole Town Council to place British Sign Language boards in local parks, a project that has profoundly engaged the local community.

BBC Radio Humberside’s Kofi Smiles and Carla Greene presented the ceremony, with a judging panel featuring Grimsby’s very own comedian and actor, Lloyd Griffith. Notable local individuals were highlighted, including Katy Smith from Hedon who won the Fundraiser honour for her work with Ruben’s Voice, a charity she founded to prevent teen suicide. In her moving speech, Katy stressed the importance of initiating dialogue about mental health.

Included in the awardees was Grimsby’s Creative Start Arts In Health CIC, recipient of the Community Group honour. Their Paint the Town Proud scheme, in conjunction with North East Lincolnshire Council, has revitalised public areas with bright murals, providing creative opportunities for those grappling with addiction.

These awards, initially launched as a beacon of hope during the coronavirus pandemic, continue to acknowledge those making a positive difference in our communities. Those interested in hearing the motivating journeys of all the finalists can tune in to BBC Sounds.

This article was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting from www.bbc.com.