Community figures gather for VCS Partnership Awards 2025

Community figures from across Windsor and Maidenhead were celebrated at the inaugural Voluntary and Community Sector Partnership Awards 2025.

The event, held on Tuesday saw more than 80 guests gather at Taplow Court, including civic leaders, volunteers, community organisers, and charity representatives.

The evening recognised the efforts of individuals and groups who ‘work tirelessly to make the borough more connected, compassionate, and

resilient’.

The awards were hosted by the Royal Borough’s Voluntary & Community Sector (VCS) Partnership in Windsor and Maidenhead, which is a collaboration involving the Windsor & Maidenhead Interfaith Forum (WAMCF), RBWM, Berkshire Community Foundation, Adult Learning, I Love Windsor CIC and WAM Get Involved.

The partnership was formed to strengthen local VCS organisations and help them thrive.

Guests enjoyed a drinks reception and selection of light bites to eat, accompanied by piano music from musician Francis Haines. There were three award categories, including Volunteer of the Year, which recognised an exceptional individual as well as two highly commended nominees, and was presented by Royal Borough mayor Cllr Mandy Brar.

The Young Volunteer of the Year category celebrated inspirational contributions by younger residents and was presented by Maeve Flanagan of Tempo Maidenhead.

The Group of the Year category honoured a standout organisation and two highly commended groups who are making an impact in the community. This category was presented by RBWM’s chief executive Stephen Evans.

The winner of the Volunteer of the Year category was Kirsty Northam, who supports several charities, community groups and CICs, including Home-Start Berkshire East, SEND Voices RBWM, and the Army Welfare Service.

The highly commended awards were presented to Jeremy Crame, the joint chair of the board of trustees at Alma Beacon, and Simon Allen, volunteer cook at Thames Valley Positive Support (TVPS).

In the Young Volunteer of the Year category, Leon Fernandez-Lempiäinen, volunteer at the Busy Buttons CORE Charity was crowned the winner.

Meanwhile, Alexander Wood, who supports RBWM Youth Council members and the Achieving for Children Participation Team, was highly commended.

ABC (Assisting Berkshire Children) to Read was named the winner in the Group of the Year category.

The Baby Bank and Number22 Windsor and Maidenhead Youth Counselling Service were Highly Commended.

Reflecting on the evening, partnership representative Paul Samuels, said: “We recognised the people and organisations whose dedication strengthens our community every single day.

“Their generosity, passion, and perseverance make Windsor and Maidenhead a better place for everyone.”