Building Bridges, Celebrating Unity: Good Relations Awards 2026 Now Open
Northern Ireland's premier Awards for peacebuilding will spotlight “The Power of Everyday Peace” in transforming local communities.
The Good Relations Awards 2026 are now open for nominations, inviting the public to shine a light on the dedicated individuals, groups, and projects working tirelessly to build lasting peace throughout the region.
Delivered by the Community Relations Council (CRC) in partnership with The Executive Office (TEO), the Awards are the premier platform for recognising the vital role that grassroots efforts play in fostering understanding, respect and cultural diversity here. This year's focus is on “The Power of Everyday Peace”, celebrating the consistent, tireless efforts that bridge divides.
Martin McDonald, MBE, Chair of the Community Relations Council, said:
"The pursuit of peace and a truly shared future isn't achieved in grand gestures, but in the countless, everyday acts of understanding, bridge-building, and collaboration across our communities. The Good Relations Awards are our chance to stop, recognise, and deeply thank these unsung heroes. We urge everyone in the region to take a moment and nominate someone who is making a real, positive difference in their local area."
Seven Categories to Honour Community Impact
The Awards feature seven categories designed to recognise diverse aspects of good relations work:
The Community Relations Council Exceptional Achievement Award
Good Relations Volunteer of the Year Award
Good Relations Community Champion Award
Good Relations Youth Award (Under 25)
Good Relations Connecting Communities Project of the Year Award
Good Relations ‘Housing for All’ Award
Sport for Good Award.
New for 2026 is the Sport for Good Award category which is delivered in partnership with Sported.
Celebrating the launch of the new category, Judith Rankin from Sported said:
"Sport has an unparalleled ability to unite people from all backgrounds around a common goal while also transforming lives. Local clubs, coaches, and volunteers use this power as an extraordinary vehicle to break down barriers, foster mutual understanding, and strengthen communities despite the many challenges and pressures that these organisations face. That is why Sported is proud to partner with the Community Relations Council on the inaugural Sport for Good Award, celebrating the life-changing benefits created by these local heroes."
The Awards celebrate those who go above and beyond to bridge divides and champion inclusivity. Winners in each category will receive a commemorative trophy in recognition of their exceptional commitment.
If you know a local individual, group, or organisation in the region that deserves recognition for their outstanding commitment to peacebuilding, nominate them today: please visit https://goodrelationsawards.com/
The closing date for nominations is 12 Noon, Friday 19th December 2025.
Photo
Pictured outside the Barron Hall in Glengormley with last year’s Good Relations Awards winner is: 1st row (l-r): Judith Rankin, Sported; Martin McDonald MBE, Community Relations Council Chair; Kathy Wolff, Community Relations Forum (last year’s winner); and Stephen Reynolds, Northern Ireland Housing Executive. 2nd row (l-r): Neil Lynas, The Executive Office; Andrew McCormick, Community Foundation for Northern Ireland; and Rebecca Harper, Volunteer Now.