Nominate a SENDsational service or individual in Portsmouth’s award scheme
Portsmouth Parent Voice is calling on the city to nominate a service, team, or individual who has gone above and beyond to support families with children and young people who have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
The Portsmouth SEND Appreciation Awards 2025 will celebrate outstanding contributions to the lives of those aged 0–25 across four award categories:
- Support for Young People Award
- Support for Families Award
- Community Choice Award
- Co-production Award
These categories reflect the breadth of support available across Portsmouth and the many ways people are making a difference.
Cat Sidwell, Chairperson of Portsmouth Parent Voice, has championed the awards following the success of a previous scheme that recognised the efforts of parents and carers in the city. Cat said:
“Recognising and rewarding the work of parents, carers, and professionals is vital to developing services in Portsmouth. These awards shine a light on the key groups we work with and the stories of those whose lives have been positively impacted by the support they’ve received.”
“The Portsmouth SEND Appreciation Awards are a natural next step in celebrating the work of community groups, charities, families, and individuals. We can’t wait to read your nominations!”
The Community Choice Award is unique. Every nominee receives a certificate in recognition of their efforts, with no overall winner. It’s a chance to celebrate those who’ve gone the extra mile to support children and families with SEND.
To help raise awareness, The News is proudly sponsoring the initiative, helping Portsmouth Parent Voice reach more people and share inspiring stories.
Mark Waldron, editor-in-chief at The News welcomed the partnership and opportunity to highlight positive stories from the community. Mark said:
“We’re thrilled to partner with Portsmouth Parent Voice to promote the awards, increase engagement, and highlight the positive impact of individuals and groups across the city.”
“We’ve long supported Portsmouth-based initiatives, and we’re proud to be the headline sponsor for the SEND Appreciation Awards.”
Portsmouth SEND Local Offer and Portsmouth City Council are also supporting the awards, helping to share inspirational stories and celebrate best practice across the city.
The shortlist will be announced in October, with winners revealed at the Portsmouth SEND Local Offer Live event at John Pounds Centre on Thursday 6 November, from 1:30pm to 2:00pm.
If you want to nominate in the Portsmouth SEND Appreciation Awards 2025, visit www.portsmouthparentvoice.org/nominations.
