Derby County Community Trust welcomed more than 200 guests to Pride Park Stadium on Friday evening for its annual Awards Evening, celebrating the participants, volunteers, partners, programmes and staff who have made an outstanding contribution over the past year.

Held in the Toyota Suite, the event recognised individuals and organisations who embody the Trust’s core values and highlighted the positive impact being made across communities throughout Derbyshire.

Supported by headline sponsor Smith Partnership, alongside drinks sponsor L.E.A.D. I.T Services, trophy sponsor African Adventures and a range of category sponsors, the evening celebrated the people and projects helping to transform lives through the Trust’s work.

This year’s exceptional award winners were:

Collaboration Award: Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance & DCCT

This award recognised a partnership that has helped tackle food insecurity across the city since 2020 through initiatives including food donations, Christmas Cheer and the Reverse Advent Calendar Appeal.

Green Champion Award: Belmont Primary School

This was awarded for the school’s outstanding engagement in the Trust’s Black, White and Green programme, helping educate young people about climate change, reducing carbon footprints and creating positive environmental change.

Special Recognition Award: Sensory Room

The Sensory Room’s commitment to creating an inclusive matchday experience, enabling children and young adults with additional needs and their families to enjoy watching Derby County in a safe and welcoming environment was recognised.

Impact Award: Rachel Gallimore

Rachel was honoured following a fantastic career at St Peter’s Junior School, where she inspired generations of young people to enjoy PE and sport, leaving a lasting impact on countless pupils throughout her career.

Inclusive Award: Callum Schofield

Callum was recognised for his dedication to supporting young people, championing inclusion and ensuring every individual has the opportunity to thrive through his work at UTC Derby Pride Park.

Programme of the Year: Premier League Kicks

Providing free, safe and inclusive football sessions across Derby five evenings a week, Premier League Kicks continues to engage more than 200 young people weekly, creating opportunities both on and off the pitch.

Volunteer of the Year: Lewis Riley

Lewis was celebrated for over four years of volunteering at the Trust’s DS Active sessions, where his commitment has helped create an inclusive environment while supporting participants and developing his own coaching journey.

Resilience Award: Mick Henman

Parkie Rams participant Mick was celebrated for demonstrating outstanding resilience and determination while continuing to make a positive impact on those around him.

Employee of the Year: Katherine Wragg

Marketing and Communications Manager Katherine Wragg was recognised for her dedication and contribution to Derby County Community Trust. Her work, including the Not Just Football campaign, has helped showcase the Trust’s impact across Derbyshire.

The annual Awards Evening forms part of Derby County Community Trust’s commitment to recognising the people who make its work possible. While football remains at the heart of the organisation, the Awards Evening showcased the breadth of the Trust’s work and the many different ways it supports local communities – proving once again that it’s Not Just Football.