Community Stars finalists for voluntary and community group award

The nominees have been whittled down to the Muslim Women’s Council, Lower Grange Community Centre, and Janaza Announcements.

Muslim Women’s Council

The nominator who put forward the Muslim Women’s Council said: “The Muslim Women’s Council are always encouraging the community to get involved with the current projects and sessions they run. It gives the ladies in the community a chance to socialise with other women from their community and interact and learn new things together."

She said: “MWC organise a range of weekly sessions for ladies in the community. These sessions include Horticultural and Bee Keeping sessions at Wibsey Park, Up cycling, Ladies Tea & Chat, monthly walks in the Yorkshire Dales, and a weekly soup kitchen feeding the homeless in Manningham. It is the 10 year anniversary this year for the soup kitchen, feeding over 80,000 service users since it started. 

“They also run a Bereavement Support Service, and legal advice on family law from a qualified family law solicitor.”

Janaza announcements

The Muslim Notification Service for Janaza announcements in Bradford connects the community and informs others about the passing of a Muslim.

Its nominator said: “It allows people to come together, offer support, and fulfil the rights of the deceased. The service shows the strength and unity of the community during difficult times, and it helps ensure that everyone is aware and can offer their prayers and condolences. It’s a wonderful way to honour and remember those who have passed away and to support their families during their time of grief.”

She added: “Recently, the Muslim Bereavement Services in Bradford have been offering a free Facebook livestream service during the COVID-19 pandemic. They are available 24/7 and provide instant information and support to the community in times of need. Their dedication to helping others and providing immediate assistance showcases their commitment to serving the community during challenging times. Their efforts in offering livestream services demonstrate their adaptability and willingness to ensure that families can still come together and honour their loved ones, even during difficult circumstances.”

Lower Grange Community Centre

Alex Dilger, of Lower Grange Community Centre places local people at the centre of everything he does, according to his nominator.

The nominator said: “He supports and encourages people in the Lower Grange area to be the best version of themselves. He always has an encouraging word to say and supports people to undertake training and development that supports them to become more confident, leading to them volunteering and going on to gain qualification and return to the world of work.

“He cares about the families in the area ensuring that he reaches out to support families in need, providing free play sessions and food during the summer holidays.”

Alex has organised days out for more than 300 people, and has hosted
events throughout the summer, giving more than 1,000 children the chance to enjoy fun outdoor activities and play, while reducing the burden of food poverty during the holidays.

The centre regularly serves more than 350 members of the Lower Grange community, providing classes, social groups and a safe space.

QR code to vote for Bradford's Community Stars Awards finalists for 2023 (Image: Newsquest)

Finalists for Bradford's Community Star Awards

For 2023's awards, there are 10 categories in total.

Click the category to find out more about each finalist

• The Good Neighbour of the Year, sponsored by Incommunities
• The Outstanding Contribution to Earliest Years of Life Award, sponsored by Better Start Bradford
• Shared Values in Action Award, sponsored by Bradford For Everyone
• Voluntary and Community Group (Larger Charities / Social Enterprises)
• Voluntary and Community Group (Small organisation – less than two full time or equivalent staff)
• Volunteer of the Year
• Young Active Citizens (age 8-16)
• Young Active Citizens (age 17-25)
• Business Making a Difference, sponsored by Participate Projects
• Fundraiser of the Year

How to vote

To vote for your local hero, please visit www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CL68FHT or scan the QR code.

Voting will end at midnight on Tuesday, November 21.

Speaking on the selfless work highlighted in the awards, Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: “We are fortunate that across the Bradford district we have many kind, compassionate and generous people who make a selfless contribution to their communities and have a huge, positive impact on our district. 

“There are some absolute stars in our community and it is great that these awards shine a light on these brilliant people and give them the thanks and recognition that they deserve.”