When Janaza Announcements was launched in Bradford in 2016 it was the first platform of its type in the UK.

Now less than eight years later it has become UK wide and has just won its first ever award.

The Muslim notification service for bereavement won the Large Voluntary and Community Group category in the Community Stars Awards.

The organisation’s founder Adil Hussain said: “I was absolutely really shocked. Obviously it’s a great achievement for us because it is the first ever award that we have won.

“We’ve never been acknowledged in this way before and we are really thankful. It goes to show that the community appreciates our service and our commitment as well.”

He said: “We’ve been doing this from about February in 2016. No platform like this existed, and ever since there have been many other platforms that have tried to copy our organisation.

“We’re a Muslim notification service for bereavement services. If someone passed away there was no platform to notify in the local area, so we started off announcing just Bradford, because we were based in Bradford. We are literally nationwide now.”

He said the organisation now had volunteers across the whole of the UK, including in London, Peterborough, Birmingham, Nottingham, Leeds, Bradford and Glasgow. From Bradford they cover the whole of West Yorkshire.

The organisation has more than 110,000 followers on Facebook and has started using other platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat.

Adil said they were being approached by a lot of people and were getting great feedback.

The nominator for Janaza Announcement 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.”

The organisation’s website says: “Janaza Announcements over the years grew quickly and rapidly. A facility that wasn’t available had made life much easier for families that were grieving. No matter where in the world you are, you would be notified.

"It’s an instant post on our Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and shared on our Whatsapp group, Snapchat and TikTok that informs thousands and thousands across the world.”

Organisations shortlisted for the Large Voluntary and Community Group Award were the Muslim Women’s Council and Lower Grange Community Centre.

Community Stars Awards winners

You can find out about this year's winners by clicking each award category below.