The nominations are in for the 2026 STAR Awards!

Different But The Same provides vital support, friendship and encouragement for families of children with disabilities and additional needs.Through inclusive activities and welcoming spaces, they help families feel understood, connected and supported while promoting acceptance across the wider community. 

"They encourage all types of children to attend, educating the next generation on acceptance and inclusion." 

Paramount Boxing Club provides a welcoming environment where young people can build confidence, develop friendships and reach their full potential. Their commitment to inclusion has positively impacted many local children and families. 

"My son had no social skills and no friends. At Paramount, he's found a family." 

Through Wavers Café and a range of community initiatives, See Beyond CIC has become a valued part of Offerton. Their volunteers provide affordable meals, support local families and create opportunities for residents to connect and thrive. 

"They have created a welcoming and inclusive space, supported local residents when they need it most, and continue to make a real difference to people's lives." 

Courtney Osment 

Courtney has made an outstanding contribution to supporting survivors of domestic abuse through OWLS. Drawing on her own experiences, she helps provide hope, friendship and ongoing support to women rebuilding their lives. 

"You gave us more than support – you gave us hope, strength and a chance to rebuild our lives." 

Tamara Horton 

Tamara has become a trusted source of support for families through Different But The Same. Despite raising three children with additional needs herself, she continually offers guidance, encouragement and reassurance to others. 

"She has always been a crutch to me when I feel like giving up." 

Edward Leavy 

For more than 30 years, Edward has dedicated himself to supporting some of the community's most vulnerable people. Through practical help, compassion and determination, he has helped many rebuild their lives and regain hope. 

"He goes out at night where people won't normally go, helping those in need of food, support and company." 

Pam Robinson 

Pam's leadership has helped Friendly Fridays become a thriving community hub where people of all ages can connect, access support and feel part of a welcoming community. 

"Friendly Fridays has built 'a community within the community' in Edgeley and Cheadle Heath." 

Becky Jackson 

Becky is a passionate community champion who supports countless families through her SEND group, community projects and events. Her dedication continues to make a real difference to those around her. 

"She is truly an inspiring woman." 

Michael Powell 

Michael has created far more than a football group. He has built an inclusive community that supports wellbeing, tackles loneliness and helps people build confidence and lasting friendships. 

"It helps to fight loneliness, builds confidence, gives people something to look forward to every week and has become a welcoming, inclusive community which supports each other." 

"Without what he is doing, I would not have the opportunity to play football, and neither would many others." 

Geoff Cash – Brinnington Art Group 

For over a decade, Geoff has created a welcoming space where people can enjoy creativity, build confidence and develop friendships. His commitment has helped the group become a valued source of support for many local residents. 

"Finding out about and joining this group has given me somewhere to be every week with people who are incredibly welcoming, inclusive and share some of my hobbies and interests." 

Phil Matley 

Through Chelwood Foodbank and his role as a Digi Hub Champion, Phil helps local residents feel supported, valued and confident. His warmth and patience make a positive difference to everyone he meets. 

"He goes out of his way to make people feel at ease and can put people at ease straight away with his friendly, welcoming attitude." 

Amy Johnson 

Amy is always there for others, whether helping neighbours, supporting families or simply offering a listening ear. Her kindness and selflessness help create a stronger and more connected community. 

"She embodies the very best of community spirit and demonstrates every day how one person's kindness can have a lasting and meaningful impact on an entire neighbourhood." 

Mike Donnan 

Through Wellbeing Football and Sports, Mike has created opportunities for people of all ages to improve their wellbeing, build confidence and form lasting friendships. His commitment continues to bring communities together. 

"He is always willing to go out of his way to make sure people are okay." 

Helen Moore 

Helen generously gives her time to support local projects, young people and families. Her compassion, encouragement and practical support have made her a trusted figure within her community. 

"She is always listening and offering helpful solutions." 

Steve has played a crucial role in the success of Webb Lane Community Allotments, helping secure funding, strengthen partnerships and support community growth for many years. 

"Steve is a true unsung hero who stays out of the limelight and has built a firm foundation for Webb Lane's growth." 

Oonagh McDonnell 

Oonagh has dedicated her expertise and time to supporting neurodiverse women and securing investment for community projects. Her contribution has helped create opportunities that will benefit local residents for years to come. 

"She donated her time and experience to the community, and her expertise was a key factor in the success of the grant application." 

Noreen Dillion 

For more than 35 years, Noreen has supported local families and residents, helping people access food, advice and services while always offering a compassionate ear. 

"She is dedicated to helping anyone that she can." 

Myra Lypnyckyj 

A pioneer of women's football and a dedicated volunteer, Myra continues to inspire people of all ages through her resilience, energy and commitment to community life. 

"Her positive attitude, warmth and willingness to give her time encourage others to get involved, feel connected and believe that anything is possible."

1st Stop Café 

A welcoming volunteer-run café providing food, friendship and support for residents of all ages. More than a café, it is a valued community hub where people can connect and feel supported. 

"A welcoming place for everyone and anyone to have something to eat, a chat, and never feel alone." 

Wellbeing Football & Sports 

Wellbeing Football & Sports provides a welcoming space where people can stay active, improve their wellbeing and build friendships. The sessions have become a lifeline for many, creating connection and support through sport. 

"They will go out of their way to make sure you are okay and always makes time to listen." 

Singing for Memory 

For five years, Singing for Memory has brought people living with dementia and their carers together through music, friendship and shared experiences. The group creates moments of joy while helping people feel connected and supported. 

"The friendships formed and wellbeing felt by all who attend is truly heartwarming." 

Susan Sambrook 

Despite facing her own challenges, Susan is always willing to support others. Through her work and volunteering, she continues to make a positive difference to the lives of people around her. 

"She helps people however she can, always putting others before herself." 

SPOONS 

SPOONS provides invaluable support to families whose babies have been born prematurely or unwell. Through specialist sessions, resources and peer support, they help families feel understood and connected during difficult times. 

"They build a compassionate community that transforms a family's post-hospital experience into one of hope and connection." 

Jean Longson 

Jean continues to lead the Offerton Afternoon Social Club, creating opportunities for friendship, companionship and connection for older residents. 

"For many members, the club is a lifeline, providing their chance to get out, socialise, and connect with others." 

Brinnington Art Club 

Brinnington Art Club provides a safe, welcoming space where people can express themselves through creativity, build friendships and support one another through life's challenges. 

"The group is a safe environment where people support each other through their challenges and make Thursday the highlight of their week." 

Make a Difference GM 

Make a Difference GM empowers people through volunteering, helping individuals develop confidence, gain experience and make a positive impact in their communities. 

"By building confidence in volunteers, they create a ripple effect that improves lives across the whole community." 

Les and Andy's Men's Group 

Les and Andy have created a supportive space where men feel comfortable opening up, sharing experiences and building meaningful connections. 

"Men are talking, opening up, and sharing their experiences." 

Seeding the Change CIC (Gemma Carroll & Aimee Priestman) 

Alongside their NHS careers, Gemma and Aimee use gardening and community projects to support people experiencing isolation, poor mental health and other challenges. Their work has transformed spaces and strengthened communities across Stockport. 

"Using their clinical experience and love of nature, they are making a difference to young and old alike across Stockport." 

AutiSK and Jan Bennett 

Autisk has provided life-changing support to children with additional needs and their families for many years. Through advice, activities and a welcoming environment, they help families feel supported, understood and included. 

"Autisk are a lifeline to many parents out there and give you the strength to push on every day and remain positive." 

Leanne Tracey 

Leanne gives countless hours supporting local people through First Stop Café and the wider Brinnington community. Her dedication, positivity and willingness to help make her an invaluable community champion. 

"She goes above and beyond for every person in Brinnington and always puts a smile on everyone's face." 

Becky Jackson 

Becky has transformed the local café into a thriving community hub while also leading a SEND parent support group and raising a family. Her commitment continues to make a lasting difference to many lives. 

"She has taken on the café, making it a gathering point for lots of people in the community." 

Suzanne Goldstraw 

Known for her kindness and generosity, Suzanne gives her time freely to support local groups and residents whenever they need help. 

"A kind-hearted, selfless person who would do anything for anyone." 

Brereton Court Gardening Club (Peter & Louise Hulbert) 

Peter and Louise have created a thriving community through gardening projects, social activities and events that help residents feel connected, included and valued. 

"Their work gives tenants a true feeling of community in a safe and comfortable environment." 

Anna Hartill  

Anna helps create a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and included. Her compassion and positivity make a lasting impact on those around her. 

"She has a natural gift for making people feel good and ensuring no one feels judged." 

Irene Holbrook 

At 79 years old, Irene continues to volunteer across numerous community groups, always bringing kindness, warmth and support wherever she goes. 

"She will drop anything and everything to help and always makes time for her community." 

Lola Rose-Cox 

Lola is a caring and compassionate young person who always takes the time to listen, understand and support others. 

"She listens, understands, and does everything she can to help others." 

Millie Woodfin 

Millie is a hardworking and reliable young person who supports her family and community with determination and a positive attitude. 

"She never complains, just cracks on and helps every week." 

Maria Shelton 

Maria is an inspiring young mum who gives back through volunteering, fundraising and supporting those around her. 

"She is a bright light to loads of people, especially Cath." 

Lucia Cox 

Lucia's energy, enthusiasm and dedication make a real difference to children with disabilities and additional needs through her volunteering with Autisk. 

"There is never a dull or sad moment when they're around." 

Layla 

Layla's kindness and positivity help create welcoming and inclusive spaces for families and children across the community. 

"She makes individuals feel welcomed and included and brings a smile to anyone she is around." 

Rebecca Redwood 

Rebecca is a compassionate volunteer who helps children with additional needs feel supported, respected and included. 

"She treats children with additional needs the way they deserve to be treated, never any differently." 

Millie McQueen 

Millie consistently goes above and beyond to support the children she works with, building confidence and positive relationships through her enthusiasm and care. 

"She always had time for the children and gave every task her all." 

Sarah Wood 

Sarah has transformed her experiences as a parent carer into a force for good through Capture & Calm Walks CIC and Future Journeys CIC. By creating inclusive opportunities for carers, families, young people and disabled residents, she has helped countless people feel connected, supported and empowered. 

"Sarah has shown that small acts of kindness, nature and creativity can change lives." 

Offerton Park Community Association – May Fairweather & Janet Bannister 

May and Janet have helped transform community life in Offerton through their passion and dedication. Their work securing funding and delivering a programme of events to celebrate Offerton's 60th anniversary brought hundreds of residents together and strengthened community pride. 

"The 60th Anniversary event acted as a catalyst for change in Offerton." 

Kaelan Wood 

Kaelan has shown exceptional leadership supporting children and young people with disabilities and additional needs. Managing large programmes with professionalism and care well beyond his years, he has made a lasting impact on children, families and volunteers alike. 

"He hasn't just stepped up this summer, he has exceeded every expectation and shown that he has the potential to become an exceptional leader within his community." 

David Donlon 

David's journey is one of resilience and determination. Having overcome significant personal challenges, he now dedicates his time to improving communal spaces and supporting neighbours, inspiring others through his hard work and kindness. 

"He wants to give back and is a great neighbour and person who wants to help his local community."