BBC Kent Make a Difference Awards open for nominations

BBC Radio Kent has opened nominations for its Make a Difference awards, which recognise people who give time to improve local communities; there are eight categories and nominations close at 17:00 BST on 31 March.

BBC Radio Kent has opened nominations for the Make a Difference awards, which celebrate people and groups who give their time to improve local communities. The scheme follows the same eight-category format used in 2025 and will bring finalists together at a ceremony where winners are revealed. The event for finalists and winners will be held at the Quarter House in Folkestone. Nominations are set to close at 17:00 BST on 31 March. Key details: - There are eight categories: Volunteer, Young Hero (under-16), Great Neighbour, Active, Animal, Environmental, Fundraiser, and Community Group (supported by Morning Live). - Finalists will be invited to a ceremony at the Quarter House in Folkestone where winners will be announced. - Nominations opened for the 2026 awards and close at 17:00 BST on 31 March. - Last year’s winners included Jo Hogbin in the Animal category for work caring for sick hedgehogs, and Anthony Grove in the Volunteer category for work with young people at Tonbridge Amateur Boxing Club. - BBC Kent lists its social channels and provided an email and WhatsApp number for story ideas. Summary: The awards aim to recognise a range of community contributions and return with the same eight categories as last year. Finalists will be invited to the Quarter House ceremony in Folkestone to learn the winners, and nominations close at 17:00 BST on 31 March.