Good Relations Awards 2025 – Nominations Open

Recognising how Good Relations work is transforming communities in Northern Ireland 

The Good Relations Awards 2025 are now open for nominations.  The annual Awards spotlight the essential role that members of the local community play in delivering peace and building united communities here. 

This year there are six award categories:  

1. The Community Relations Council Exceptional Achievement Award 
2. Good Relations Volunteer of the Year Award 
3. Good Relations Community Champion Award 
4. Good Relations Youth Award (Under 25) 
5. Good Relations Connecting Communities Project of the Year Award 
6. Good Relations ‘Housing for All’ Award. 

The Good Relations Awards are organised by the Community Relations Council in partnership with The Executive Office (TEO).  Each Award category is supported by a partner organisation: Volunteer Now; NICVA; NI Youth Forum, and the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland.  New for 2025 is The Housing for All award and Community Relations Council is delighted to have the support and engagement of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive in this category.  

The Awards recognise the exceptional commitment to Good Relations work undertaken by people and groups who go above and beyond, every single day, to make a better, more united community for everyone.  The Awards celebrate those who unite and champion our local communities, while also showcasing the diverse range of projects that connect communities in peace, understanding and cultural respect. 

If you know a local group, individual or organisation in Northern Ireland that deserves recognition for their work, nominate now for the 2025 Good Relations Awards.  The closing date for nominations is 19 December 2024. 

Martin McDonald, MBE, Chair of the Community Relations Council, said:  

“The Good Relations Awards 2025 offer a unique opportunity to recognise and celebrate the everyday heroes in our communities who hold immense significance in our journey towards lasting peace – those who work tirelessly to foster understanding, respect, and cohesion among diverse groups. Whether through grassroots projects or individual leadership, these efforts lay the groundwork for a more inclusive and harmonious society.” 

Dr. Jacqueline Irwin, CEO of the Community Relations Council, said: 

“The Good Relations Awards shine a light on the transformative power of collaboration and mutual respect. These awards not only honour those who go above and beyond in their commitment to peacebuilding, but we hope theyalso inspire others to follow in their footsteps to strengthen community bonds and cultivate a sense of shared purpose across the region.

“At the heart of the Good Relations Awards is the recognition that peace is never guaranteed – it is built daily by individuals and groups working to bridge divides, and these Awards remind us all of the value of this vital work.”

 Notes 

The Good Relations Awards, created by the Community Relations Council, have taken place annually since 2006.  

There are six Award categories, each supported by a partner organisation:  

1. Community Relations Council Exceptional Achievement Award (peace building) – Partner: Community Relations Council
2. Good Relations Volunteer of the Year Award – Partner: Volunteer Now
3. Good Relations Community Champion Award – Partner: NICVA
4. Good Relations Youth Award (Under 25) – Partner: NI Youth Forum
5. Good Relations Connecting Communities Project of the Year Award – Partner: Community Foundation for Northern Ireland
6. Good Relations ‘Housing for All’ Award – Partner: Northern Ireland Housing Executive. 

Nominees are assessed by an independent panel.  The finalists in each category will be invited to the Awards Recognition ceremony, which is planned to take place in Spring 2025.  

Deadline for completed applications: 19 December 2024.

Nominate today – please visit www.goodrelationsawards.com