The SK Community Awards 2024

Humans are social animals. Our drive to connect - thrown into such sharp relief during the Covid lockdowns - isn't just a preference. We have a basic need for social connection. It is vital to our survival in the same way as food, water, shelter (and for teens - WiFi) are. We aren't even that special in this need. Dolphins, ants, Canadian geese, meerkats and lions are just a few other species that rely - to a greater or lesser degree - on social structures to survive. But while we are not alone in our need for connection, we are probably the only species on the planet that gathers together to present each other with awards.

2024 is the fourth iteration of the The SK Community awards

On the face of it, in a difficult economic climate, faced with uncertainty abroad and challenges at home, it may seem conceited in the extreme to dedicate council time, effort and, yes, money, to such a function.

I couldn't disagree more.

I spent the evening of Friday 15th November hearing story after story of inspiring individuals in our community. People who tirelessly help their community. Unsung heroes raising money for charity, saving lives, or supporting the vulnerable in our society. These are extraordinary people who do not seek public praise, although, as my colleague, Cabinet member for Communities and People, Cllr Rhea Rayside said, they deserve it.

This modest event, hosted by Bourne Corn Exchange and expertly run by the SK Communities team, showcased the inspiring work of our young people, local businesses, and parishes. We heard of the difficulty in choosing which finalist would take home the Neil Smith Beyond the Call of Duty Award for our blue-light services. We marvelled at the decades of tireless work put in by the finalists for the Judy Smith Lifetime Community Champion award. Our finalists ranged from 8-years old to senior citizens.

"In South Kesteven, we are incredibly fortunate to have young people who embody the very best of what our district stands for: a spirit of resilience, a commitment to making a difference, passion and...a dedication to uplifting others." Cllr Rhea Rayside

We rely on our volunteers. We rely on that social connection. We rely on the time, effort and dedication of organisations all over South Kesteven to step into gaps that vulnerable people can slip through.

This awards evening was not just an excuse to dress up. It wasn't a self-indulgent exercise in ego-boosting. It was a rare opportunity for community leaders to stand with our volunteers, to demonstrate 'we see you.' It was a chance to say thank you to people who usually shirk the spotlight, who do what they do because it is the right thing to do. It was also an opportunity for our volunteers to meet each other; to see the diversity and volume of help on offer in our area, and to make that vital human connection that is as important to us as breathing.

No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another. Joseph Addison - English Poet

I entered politics to strengthen the democratic representation of my home. There is an unattributed quote that suggests volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. While we only occasionally have the opportunity to vote in an election, when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.

I am proud to be part of such a vibrant democracy

SK Community Award Categories

Inspirational Young Person	Community Contribution by Business
The Judy Smith Lifetime Community Champion	The Neil Smith Beyond the Call of Duty Award
Community in Bloom Award