BBC Make a Difference Awards

Last night, my Chamberlain, Mark Johnson, represented the Oxfordshire Shrievalty at the BBC Make a Difference Awards at Oxford Town Hall.

It was an evening that reminded us of the extraordinary good that happens quietly in our communities every day. A young writer, a fitness instructor and even a much-loved therapy dog were among those recognised – each one proving that making a difference does not require grand gestures, but rather care, commitment and kindness lived out consistently.

The Volunteer Award went to Don Ferris, who gives his time to help children learn to read with the Bicester charity ARCh. Don also drives patients to hospital and even helps people in his local library get to grips with IT. As he collected his award, he insisted he felt a “fraud” for being recognised – but to the children and adults he supports, his contribution is priceless.

The Young Hero Award was presented to Sylvie, whose creative spirit turned her own time in hospital into something powerful for others. She wrote a story about her ‘superpowers’ in hospital, which Oxford Hospitals Charity used in a Christmas campaign that raised £20,000. She also organised a Readathon at her school that raised £1,500 for books – a remarkable example of youthful generosity and imagination.

The Great Neighbour Award went to Margo Evans, who began supporting a 92-year-old neighbour during the lockdowns and has never stopped. Daily phone calls, lifts to clubs, organising film nights and community lunches – Margo embodies the old-fashioned yet vital art of neighbourliness.

Fitness professional Janette Cardy was recognised with the Active Award. After facing health issues herself, she saw the need to support women from perimenopause through to postmenopause, creating free online workouts, recipes and coaching. For many women, her initiative has given both a voice and a lifeline.

There was much affection in the room for Monty the Dog, who, alongside his owner Mike Pritchard, won the Animal Award. Visiting care homes and community clubs each week, Monty spreads joy and companionship, proving that sometimes four paws can make just as big a difference as two hands.

Hollie Benson and her team received the Fundraiser Award for their tireless efforts raising money for the Silver Star maternity fund. Inspired by her own complicated pregnancy, Hollie and her family now devote countless hours to stalls, fetes and events, supporting other families going through difficult times.

The Green Award went to Oxford Wood Recycling, a social enterprise that has diverted 25,000 tonnes of wood from landfill and created jobs while also tackling social isolation through a Community Shed in Abingdon. It is a brilliant example of enterprise and compassion working hand in hand.

Finally, the Community Group Award recognised Nai’s House, a mental health and suicide prevention charity in Bicester, founded in memory of Dené (Nai). Supporting young people aged 5–30, and offering both one-to-one support and crisis intervention, Nai’s House is a beacon of hope for those navigating the hardest of struggles.

The evening was uplifting, moving and humbling in equal measure. More than 10 million people have engaged with Make a Difference across BBC local radio stations, and it is easy to see why – these stories capture the very best of us.

I am truly proud that the Shrievalty could be present, applauding those whose everyday actions bring light to our communities. My thanks to BBC Radio Oxford for hosting an event that reminds us how much good there is in the world, if only we take the time to notice it.

👉 Read more here: BBC News – Local heroes celebrated at Make a Difference Awards.