A Rainworth charity that has been making a difference to people’s lives for more than 30 years is celebrating winning a regional award.

The Social Action Hub works to improve residents’ life chances and increase sustainable opportunities for those who are deprived, isolated, and marginalised in the community.

It won the Business Commitment to the Community Award, sponsored by Newark College, at the Newark and Sherwood Community and Sports Awards 2024.

Organised by Newark and Sherwood District Council, in partnership with Radio Newark, the event honoured people who have gone above and beyond to support the community and champion the growth of sports.

Representatives from the charity are pictured after receiving their award at The Renaissance at Kelham Hall, near Newark.

Daisy Dady, centre co-ordinator, said they were proud to win the award.

“We are so proud of our team for being amazing always. We truly do go above and beyond to provide support to our local community and this award is a great opportunity to say thank you to our team for constantly striving every day to uplift those around us from all walks of life.

“Thank you to all of our team, including our volunteers.

“Thank you to Newark and Sherwood Community and Sports Awards for hosting us at this lovely event, and especially for presenting us with this amazing award!

“And thank you to our family and friends, supporters, neighbours, and beneficiaries. All of you deserve a thank you for supporting our cause and making the cogs turn in The Social Action Hub.”

The Social Action Hub, based on Kirklington Road, was formed in 1993 after pit closures led to high levels of deprivation in the village.

Initially called the Detached Youth Project when it focused on street-based outreach work with young people, the charity was renamed The Social Action Hub in 2019.

One of its biggest success stories in recent years has been the growth in services for food sharing to help food poverty, but it is ready to tackle any issue with support — including isolation and loneliness, mental health and wellbeing, and education and skills.

District council leader Coun Paul Peacock, of Edwinstowe, said: “Our district is full of amazing individuals who do great things in our communities. Whether it be helping neighbours in an emergency, working as backroom staff for a sports club, or inspiring others to contribute to the area, there’s so much to celebrate.

“Often these individuals do not get the recognition they deserve, so this award ceremony was the perfect opportunity to say thank you to those that deserve it the most. I’m thrilled to have celebrated the amazing accomplishments of our residents across the district.”

A total of 14 categories received awards in front of around 300 guests.