Time is running out to nominate outstanding young people for the 2026 Tendring Youth Awards, as the deadline for submissions draws nearer.
Now in its tenth year, the Tendring Youth Awards celebrate the incredible achievements of young people who live, study or work in the district, while also recognising the adults who go above and beyond to support them.
Nominations must be submitted by Monday, 4 May 2026, ahead of the glittering gala awards evening, which will take place at Clacton’s Princes Theatre in July.
Sponsored once again by Harwich Haven Authority, returning as headline sponsor for the seventh consecutive year, the awards are also supported by the Princes Theatre, Haltermann Carless, Aquinas Provisions, Searles Financial Planning, Pickering Group and Nantmor Blinds, alongside Tendring District Council and Essex County Council.
A wide range of categories is available, celebrating achievements across areas such as lifesaving, community improvement, environmental action, learning, the arts, personal growth and caring responsibilities. Nominations are welcomed for both individuals and groups, including schools, clubs and youth organisations.
A new Make A Difference Award has also been introduced for 2026. This special award is not open for nomination, but will be awarded at the discretion of the judging panel, thanks to long‑standing Tendring Youth Awards supporter Nigel Spencer MBE DL.
After the nomination deadline, an independent judging panel will review all submissions and shortlist finalists for the awards ceremony.
Karen O’Connor, Chairwoman of the Tendring Youth Awards, said many deserving young people could still be missing out.
“We know there are so many inspirational young people across Tendring whose achievements deserve to be celebrated, but they can only be recognised if someone takes the time to nominate them,” she said.
“As we mark ten years of the awards, it feels even more important to shine a light on the positive difference young people make in our communities.
“If you know a young person who has gone above and beyond, I would urge you not to miss this opportunity to put them forward before nominations close.”
To nominate someone for a Tendring Youth Award, complete an online nomination form at https://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/tendring-youth-awards or request a form and submit it via thetendringyouthawards@gmail.com – alternatively you can fill it out and return it by post to Tendring Youth Awards (Nominations), Town Hall, Clacton, CO15 1SE.
