The work of local charities, voluntary groups, and social enterprises involved in Transforming West Cumbria has received national recognition, with the programme winning two prestigious awards.
Funded through the Sellafield Ltd Social Impact Multiplied (SiX) programme and delivered by Cumbria Community Foundation, Transforming West Cumbria is a £6.5 million social investment initiative. Launched in 2020, it aims to address the causes of poor health, low incomes, and low skills among the region’s most disadvantaged residents. Since its inception, the programme has supported hundreds of local groups and thousands of individuals, improving mental health, financial wellbeing, and the health and wellbeing of children living in poverty.
The initiative was named Social Value Initiative of the Year at the Institute of Economic Development Awards and won the Social Impact category at the Institute for Collaborative Working Awards. Earlier this year, it also received the Partnership Award at Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster Awards and was highly commended in the Grant Making category at the national Charity Awards.
Dr Jenny Benson, Director of Programmes & Partnerships at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received such clear recognition of the value of the Transforming West Cumbria programme, both locally and on the national stage this year. These awards celebrate the passion and commitment of everyone involved – from frontline charities and skilled volunteers to expert mentors, match funders, and steering group members. Transforming West Cumbria is a true team effort, responding to local needs and driving real, lasting change. Thanks to Sellafield Ltd’s significant investment and input, we have been able to co-create and deliver this programme with a range of voluntary, community and social enterprise partners. Transforming West Cumbria is a huge team effort.”
Tracey West, Head of Social Impact at Sellafield Ltd, added: “We know that Transforming West Cumbria has had wide-ranging, lasting impact on local communities since it was launched in 2020, as confirmed by the independent mid-programme evaluation. This success is down to the strength of our delivery partners. Their work has transformed lives and communities, and these awards are a testament to that collective impact.”
The Foundation has also been recognised for other partnership initiatives this year. The Kirkby Lonsdale Fire Disaster Recovery Appeal Partnership won Fundraising Feat of the Year at the Cumbria Life Awards, while Age Friendly South Lakeland, established with the Foundation’s support, was highly commended in the Organisation Champion category at the Diverse Cumbria Awards.
Cumbria Community Foundation Chief Executive, Andy Beeforth OBE, said: “All of the awards we have won and been shortlisted for this year demonstrate our depth of knowledge and the difference we have made in supporting vulnerable people. It is a privilege to be able to receive the generosity of local people and businesses and then to direct that money to where it is needed most. We couldn’t do this without the passion and commitment of the charities, social enterprises and volunteers in our communities. I’m incredibly proud of our team, and proud of the trust people across Cumbria place in us to deliver life-changing work. These awards are for all the people we have had the honour of working with, supporting and championing this year.”
