Celebrating Our National Diversity Awards 2025 Nomination

Being nominated for the National Diversity Awards 2025 was a real moment of pride for everyone involved in Accessible Calderdale. The event took place at Liverpool Cathedral on 19 September 2025, and the scale of the celebration showed just how many people across the country are pushing for a more inclusive society. Aisha and Katie travelled there to represent the project, take part in the evening, and connect with other finalists from a wide range of communities.

Why the National Diversity Awards Matter

The National Diversity Awards bring together individuals, charities and community groups that work to remove barriers and improve equality. Because inclusion sits at the heart of Accessible Calderdale, the nomination felt particularly meaningful. We support anyone with a disability, long term health condition, sensory impairment, hidden impairment, or anyone who is neuro divergent. We also support older people who find it difficult to get around. In addition, we work with partners across Calderdale to reach people through events, workshops and advisory groups.

As a result, being shortlisted recognised the effort shown by our team and volunteers. It also highlighted how essential local projects are in shaping a more accessible region.

Representing Accessible Calderdale

Aisha, an active member of the Accessible Calderdale Disability Access Forum (ACDAF), attended the ceremony with Katie. Throughout the evening they met other nominees, listened to stories from across the UK and shared insights about access, community engagement and lived experience. Moreover, events like the National Diversity Awards give us a chance to learn directly from others who face similar challenges and are working to overcome them.

An Inspiring Evening

The ceremony was hosted by Clare Balding CBF who said:

“I’m thrilled and deeply honoured to return as host for The National Diversity Awards. Recognising the individuals, organisations, and charities that go above and beyond to improve their communities is truly vital. These inspiring and uplifting awards shine a spotlight on the incredible strength and positivity of an inclusive society, celebrating community heroes whose dedication and achievements might otherwise go unrecognised.”

After the speeches, the evening continued with well deserved awards, a shared meal and conversations with organisations doing remarkable work. Consequently, the whole night reminded us how powerful inclusion can be when people come together with a shared purpose.

Thank You

Huge thanks to everyone who voted for us and to Aisha and Katie for representing Accessible Calderdale at the National Diversity Awards.

You can watch highlights of the event here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z2G10OOsNQw