Off the back of a truly remarkable awards season, we are honoured and delighted to share that YMCA Cheshire has brought home four incredible awards; celebrating two outstanding individuals and two organisational wins, from a total of 13 prestigious nominations finals across the UK.
This year’s achievements shine a bright light on the dedication, compassion and excellence that define our people and our work. They speak to the heart of who we are: an organisation powered by purpose, driven by community, and committed to creating spaces where everyone feels safe, supported and full of possibility.
Below is a celebration of each award category and the inspiring stories behind them.
Housing Executive Awards
Being a finalist in the Housing Association of the Year category of this prestigious is a powerful recognition of our commitment to providing not just shelter, but belonging. At YMCA Cheshire, our housing support goes far beyond bricks and mortar. We create safe homes, offer unwavering guidance, and support individuals through some of the most challenging seasons of their lives.
This award highlights the excellence of our team and the transformative impact of our approach. It affirms that our housing services continue to stand out for their quality, compassion and innovation.
Investors in People Awards
This year, all four of our entries reached the finals, an achievement that speaks volumes about the high standards we uphold as an employer and community organisation. We are proud to celebrate each recognition:
Exceptional Long-Term Contribution – Finalist
Nilmini Bradshaw (28+ years of dedicated service). Nilmini’s incredible commitment over nearly three decades reflects the true spirit of YMCA Cheshire. Her leadership, resilience and compassion have helped shape our organisation and the lives of countless individuals.
UK Employer of the Year, Silver 50–249 – WINNER
Achieving Silver in this competitive category demonstrates our dedication to building a workplace where people feel valued, supported and able to grow. Our people are our greatest strength, and this award confirms it.
Excellence in Building Purpose-Driven Impact – Finalist
This recognition affirms that the work we do is deeply meaningful and guided by a strong moral compass. Purpose shapes every decision we make, and this acknowledgment reinforces that commitment.
Young Person of the Year – Finalist
Millie Carter represents the passion and promise of our young people. Her hard work and drive inspire both her peers and our team. We are proud to see her recognised on a national stage.
YMCA England & Wales Youth Matters Awards
This year, YMCA Cheshire proudly held the distinction of being the YMCA with the most finalists nationwide! Among these incredible nominations, we are thrilled to celebrate two major wins:
Young Volunteer of the Year – WINNER
Christina Pinto-Skeggs’s generous spirit, leadership and commitment to giving back embody the very best of youth empowerment. She is a shining example of how young people can transform their communities.
Young Worker of the Year – WINNER
Millie Oldroyd’s energy, compassion and dedication to young people make her a true force for positive change. This award highlights her outstanding contribution and unwavering passion.
Housing Project of the Year – Finalist
Our ground breaking Power of Us project that amplifies the voices and strengths of young residents, showcasing empowerment in action.
Health and Wellbeing Project of the Year – Finalist
A powerful initiative called ‘Cared for Football’ that uses sport, connection and mentorship to support young people’s wellbeing.
Training and Education Project of the Year – Finalist
A celebration of curiosity, creativity and growth through our STEM Club, opening doors for young people to explore opportunities in science and technology.
YMCA of the Year – Finalist
This honour recognises the collective impact of our organisation and the dedication of our incredible staff, volunteers and supporters.
South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry Awards
Both of our entries proudly reached the finals this year—an achievement that reflects our strong partnerships and deep roots in the local community.
Apprentice of the Year – Finalist
Millie Carter’s continuous growth, resilience and ambition stand out in everything she does. Her recognition in multiple awards categories is a testament to her remarkable potential.
Contribution to the Community – Charity – WINNER
This organisational win celebrates the heart of what we do. From housing and youth work to mental health support and community outreach, this award honours our ongoing commitment to serving South Cheshire with compassion and purpose.
We are incredibly proud of every staff member, trustee, volunteer and supporter who has contributed to these achievements. These awards are a reflection of each person’s dedication, skill and heart.
Most importantly, we honour the people who trust us, those who share their stories, their hopes and their healing with us. They inspire everything we do.
At YMCA Cheshire, we offer more than services.
We offer a place of safety.
A steady hand in difficult moments.
A home filled with possibility.
A community where no one feels alone.
Thank you to everyone who made this awards season such a success.
These wins are more than accolades, they are a testament to the heart of YMCA Cheshire: our people, our purpose and our passion for empowering communities to thrive.
