Hampshire heroes to be honoured for positive impact at award ceremony

The Hampshire Changemaker Awards 2026 will honour individuals, organisations and businesses driving social change across the county; the ceremony has reached full capacity after a surge in nominations.

The Hampshire Changemaker Awards 2026 will honour people, organisations and businesses making positive social change across the county. Now in its second year, the awards are organised by Action Hampshire in partnership with Hampshire County Council and several local newspapers. Organisers say the event aims to shine a light on voluntary sector work and inspire others. The ceremony has reached full capacity following high demand and a surge in nominations. Key details: - The awards recognise work across fields such as health inequality, innovation, environmental sustainability, youth leadership, wellbeing initiatives and inclusive practices. - The event is organised by Action Hampshire with partners including Hampshire County Council, the Southern Daily Echo, Hampshire Chronicle, Basingstoke Gazette, Andover Advertiser and Isle of Wight County Press. - Last year's Changemaker of the Year was Clare Canning, representing Broadleaf, a family hub supporting home-educated children. - Sponsors for 2026 include Palladium Group, Delivered Social and Hastoe. - The awards ceremony has reached full capacity after a surge in nominations. Summary: The awards aim to highlight and recognise a wide range of local social initiatives and the people and groups behind them. Organisers say the ceremony is intended to raise the profile of voluntary sector work in Hampshire and inspire continued community efforts. Undetermined at this time.