Unsung Hero Contest 2025

unsung heroes poster (without website link)

Do you know someone in South Derbyshire who makes a difference behind the scenes? We’re celebrating the everyday champions who go the extra mile for our communities - and we need your nominations.

Nominate your Unsung Hero between Wednesday 1 October and Wednesday 29 October 2025 (by 11:59pm).


Nominate now

What is the Unsung Hero Contest?

From organising local activities to quietly helping neighbours, this award shines a light on people who make South Derbyshire a better place to live - without seeking recognition.

The winner will receive a trophy, gain recognition and switch on the South Derbyshire Christmas Lights at our Annual Switch-On event on Saturday 29 November 2025 (4:00–7:00pm).

Who can be nominated?

  • Individuals or groups who live within the South Derbyshire District Council area.

  • All ages welcome. (If the winner is under 16, they must attend the event with a responsible adult.)

  • Employees of South Derbyshire District Council and their immediate family members cannot be nominated.

Who can nominate?

Anyone aged 18 or over can submit a nomination.

How to nominate

  1. Complete our short online form.

  2. Tell us - in up to 500 words - why your nominee deserves to be recognised as South Derbyshire’s Unsung Hero.

  3. Include valid contact details for yourself and (if possible) your nominee so we can get in touch.

Tip: Strong nominations include clear examples of the impact your nominee has had on people, places, or community groups in South Derbyshire.

Key dates

  • Nominations open: Wed 1 October 2025

  • Nominations close: Wed 29 October 2025, 11:59pm

  • Final 5 announced: Wed 12 November 2025

  • Public vote: Wed 12 November to Thu 20 November 2025, 12:00am (midnight)

  • Winner contacted by: Mon 24 November 2025, 5:00pm

  • Winner announced to the public: Tue 25 November 2025

  • Christmas Lights Switch-On: Sat 29 November 2025, 4:00–7:00pm

How the winner is chosen

  1. After nominations close, an internal panel reviews all eligible entries and creates a shortlist of around 15-20 nominees.

  2. A second panel then selects the final five.

  3. The public votes for their favourite finalist.

  4. The nominee with the highest number of valid votes is declared the winner.

Finalists announced on 12 November 2025 - keep an eye on our channels to cast your vote.

Prize

  • The winner will receive a trophy, be recognised for their contributions and switch on the South Derbyshire Christmas Lights on 29 November 2025.

  • No cash alternative is available.

  • If the winner cannot attend, we may offer the opportunity to another finalist.

Before you submit

  • Make sure your nominee lives in South Derbyshire.

  • Share specific examples of their contribution.

  • Provide accurate contact details so we can reach you and/or your nominee if shortlisted.

Nominate now

Terms, data & privacy

By taking part, you agree to the Terms & Conditions of the Unsung Hero Contest, including the use of names, likenesses and nomination details for promotional purposes related to the award and the Christmas Lights Switch-On event. Personal data will be handled in line with our Privacy Policy and used only to administer this contest.

Accessibility & support

If you need this information in another format or help completing the nomination, please contact us.

Contact: get.active@southderbyshire.gov.uk