Do you know someone local who goes the extra mile?
Dover District Council is pleased to launch the fifth year of its well-established REACH Awards scheme, celebrating the outstanding environmental and community contributions made across the district.
The REACH Awards (Recognising Environmental and Community Heroes) shine a spotlight on the individuals, groups, and organisations whose ongoing efforts help enhance the appearance of the district, protect the environment, and nurture the local community spirit.
This year’s programme features four award categories, each designed to highlight the wide range of work taking place locally. The scheme recognises dedicated volunteers and community projects, as well as organisations that are placing sustainability at the heart of what they do.
Award categories for 2026
Entry is free, and nominations are welcome from individuals, groups, or those wishing to put someone forward.
Residents and community groups will be recognised for activities that contribute to a cleaner, greener district from organising litter picks to recycling, upcycling, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable practices.
For local organisations such as schools, businesses, and shops, judges will be looking for initiatives that reduce environmental impact and support long term sustainability. This could include actions such as water conservation, switching to greener products, encouraging sustainable travel, planting trees or shrubs, increasing recycling, or adopting low carbon energy sources.
The Community Project of the Year category will celebrate initiatives that bring residents together to work towards shared environmental goals. Both informal groups and established charities are invited to enter, so long as their work demonstrates clear benefits for the local environment and community.
Winners will receive a certificate, an award trophy, and formal recognition at a celebration event taking place locally in April 2026. This year’s awards also support the Great British Spring Clean campaign, running from 13 March to 29 March 2026.
Cllr Gordon Cowan, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services, said: “Across our district, many residents, community groups, and organisations dedicate their time to improving and caring for our local environment. The REACH Awards provide a valuable opportunity to honour their commitment. The scheme recognises inspirational achievements, positive environmental impact, and the ongoing work of those unsung heroes who help make our district cleaner, greener, and an even better place to live.”
To submit a nomination and find out more, visit REACH Awards. The closing date for entries is Sunday 29 March 2026.
Posted on 04 February 2026