HEY Charity Awards

Deadline for nominations – 29th March

Nominations are invited from local charities and community groups – which provide lifelines for local people, for the inaugural HEY Charity Awards, a brand-new event shining a spotlight on the people and organisations changing lives across Hull and East Yorkshire.

Organised by HEY Smile Foundation, the HEY Charity Awards are designed to champion those who often work under the radar, delivering vital services and support in communities right across the region. The event will recognise outstanding impact, innovation and dedication from grassroots charities, volunteer-led projects, community organisations and the businesses that support them.

The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 21 May 2026 at the MKM Stadium in Hull, bringing together charity leaders, volunteers, community champions, funders and business supporters for an evening of celebration, storytelling and recognition. The Awards have been heavily subsidised to ensure charities can attend and celebrate their peers across the sector. Tickets will cost charities £10 and includes, welcome drink, three course meal, the Award ceremony and entertainment. 

Every shortlisted nominee will be invited to attend the awards evening, where winners will be announced in front of peers, partners and supporters.

Categories include:

• Environmental Award
• Digital Inclusion Award
• Leader of the Year
• Impact of the Year
• Team of the Year
• Funder of the Year
• Arts & Culture Award
• Children & Youth Award
• Education & Training Award
• Partnership of the Year
• Sports & Active Award
• Inclusion Award
• Health & Wellbeing Award
• Newcomer Award
• Special Recognition Award

The judges will be looking for clear examples of impact, creativity, collaboration and community benefit across all categories.

Nominations can be made here until 29th March: https://heycharityawards.co.uk