2025 Shortlisted Nominee
Community Organisation Award: Age
Cornerstone Benwell is a community charity based in Newcastle’s West End, one of the UK’s most deprived areas. Since 1987, it has empowered local residents through programmes focused on education, wellbeing and access to healthy food. Its award-winning Community Café and charity shop offer affordable meals and essentials, earning the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2015. The charity runs tailored ‘Sturdy Foundations’ projects, including woodworking sessions for people with dementia, engaging 12 regular male participants to support memory, wellbeing and social connection. Other initiatives include The Welcome Project for adults with learning disabilities and The Kindful Project, which supports those facing mental health challenges, poverty and menopause. Rooted in inclusion, Cornerstone Benwell strengthens community bonds and builds confidence through practical, creative activities that bring people together and give them purpose, recognition and support.