The Royal Borough of Greenwich held the twelfth year of Civic Awards to recognise the work of unsung local heroes.

The 2026 Awards saw 47 awards and small gifts presented on the night to neighbours, carers, leaders, to teachers, young people and sports achievers. 

Smile of Hope (Steve and Sandra Roebuck): A volunteer-led support system for children and young people with life-limiting illnesses, working on fundraising and community partnerships was chosen as one of the winner in the Community Category.  

Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, who helped present the awards, said: “Our residents truly are the spirit of this borough. I was proud to shake the hands of such incredible achievers who go above and beyond to support each other, who lift the spirits of the community and who ask nothing for it. 

“This year we saw an incredible 234 nominations representing people from all walks of life, all faiths, all backgrounds. They show what this borough knows and understands so well: compassion and kindness is universal.  

“Thank you to the nominators for bringing these remarkable people the recognition they deserve.” 

Councillor Linda Bird, Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich said: “Our 2026 Civic Awards winners have really shown us just how selfless our communities are.  

“From community organisers tackling isolation to volunteers supporting elderly residents or inspiring children – each winner has made an incredible impact to local lives.  

“It has been my honour this year to include a new category for unpaid carers. These incredible people balance extraordinary personal responsibility without asking for rewards, glory or thanks. While we may have selected three winners, there are thousands of inspiring unpaid carers supporting loved ones, friends, or neighbours across the borough, and to you – we say thank you.”  

You can read the full article here: https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/news/2026/spirit-borough-celebrated-civic-awards-2026