Camden Calling

Helping homeless, ex-homeless and vulnerable people to access the mainstream arts and music scene.

Judges comments

"This innovative project addresses issues of social marginalisation and provides opportunities for vulnerable people to build friendships, achieve well-being and gain work experience."

"It was the fact that this project is entirely user led which appealed to me, in addition to it providing the opportunity for homeless and vulnerable people to perform alongside professionals, thus enabling their standing in society and building their sense of self-worth."

HMP Forest Bank - A Fresh Start

A bank account project in partnership with The Co-Operative Bank that enables prisoners to open a bank account prior to release.

Judges comments

"Hugely impactful, incredible outcomes, changing British prisons – the way they engaged with the Co-op bank is inspiring and original – gets ownership from one single bank to other banks to do the same, simple yet innovative. FANTASTIC."

"The number of accounts opened, the fact that 28 other prisons were involved, suggests this scheme will continue to play a part in reducing the risk of re-offending. The set up and sustainability seemed strong. I liked the simplicity of this scheme but the fact it had such a huge impact."

Community Network - Seafarers Link

Setting up telephone discussion and support groups to combat the growing problem of loneliness and isolation among retired seafarers.

Judges comments

"I loved the thoughtfulness behind this project – seeing a very specific and un-recognised need and responding so appropriately to it. It is how the world changes – through the building of grass roots communities – sharing histories and building friendships. Wonderful."

"Innovative in that it tackles a client group that I’ve never heard mentioned before but must suffer terrible isolation. The genius is that it uses something that people already have – a telephone. Also it is spreading and therefore is evidently having an impact"

Impact Housing Association - On Yer Bike

A cycling scheme for homeless and at risk residents in Carlisle.

Judges comments

"A clever idea that fulfils so many functions – from individual health benefits and social inclusion through to changing attitudes at community level. It is inspiring."

"A fantastic scheme, inspirational, generates a real family atmosphere."

Birmingham City Mission - The Workshop

Creating a healing space for hurting and vulnerable people to find their inner strength and self worth.

Judges comments

"I really liked the concept of healing through practical work and active listening. The project incorporates a relationship with the created object which then becomes imbued with the spirit of the individual... Building a sense self-worth through the act of creation."

"The emphasis on creating a place of warmth and belonging shows compassion that in the life of those who are homeless must be welcome indeed.