The Heart of the Community Award is back for 2025, ready to shine a light on the businesses and organisations that go above and beyond to support, uplift, and empower North Tyneside.
This prestigious accolade honours those who put people first, making a real, lasting impact on the lives of residents while fostering a spirit of togetherness and generosity throughout the borough.
Michael James, Chair of the North Tyneside Business Forum, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative:
“This is always my favourite award from the whole Business Awards. Every nominee goes above and beyond their daily work to support the community. Their passion and generosity make a real difference in North Tyneside.”
2024 Winners, North East Nipple Project is run by Megan Jones and Amanda Patterson from Wallsend who have transformed lives through their free areola tattooing service for women recovering from breast cancer reconstruction. Their compassionate work has not only restored confidence but also provided emotional healing, proving that community care is about more than just services – it’s about changing lives.
Amanda Patterson said: “It was a real surprise to win the award, and we are grateful to everyone who voted for us. It’s lovely to know that our work is helping so many people to regain their confidence after having breast surgery.”
The previous year’s winner Tynemouth Decorators is a family-run business who have painted a brighter future – both literally and figuratively – through their tireless support of local organisations like Pathways 4 All, as well as international projects such as painting schools in Gambia. Their handson involvement in initiatives like DIY SOS reflects a steadfast commitment to giving back and creating spaces filled with hope.
“We’ve helped dozens of good causes by giving away free paint and by helping in projects like the BBC DIY SOS TV programme, we enjoy doing things like this and never expected to get an award, but we are very honoured,” said Tynemouth Decorator’s owner Stephen Hull.
“Our inspiring past winners have set the gold standard for the Heart of the Community Award,” said Michael James. “There are many other people, businesses and organisations in North Tyneside who champion those in need with compassion, creativity, and collaboration and we need to find them to give them the recognition they deserve.”
The North Tyneside Business Forum invites businesses and organisations to showcase how they’re making a difference. This year, the award will feature three distinct themes that highlight key pillars of community impact:
Positive Impact (Until end of March 2025) – Recognising those who have made a tangible, meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Collaboration (April-June 2025) – Celebrating businesses that work together with other organisations, charities, and local groups to achieve greater impact.
Wellbeing (July-September 2025) – Honouring initiatives that prioritise the health, happiness, and welfare of the North Tyneside community.
Nominations will be open for six weeks during each phase, with a winner announced at the end of each period. The three winners will then advance as finalists for the prestigious Heart of the Community Award, which will be presented at the North Tyneside Business Awards 2025 in November.
Anyone can nominate a business that is making a real difference, and selfnominations are welcome throughout the year. Submissions will be carefully evaluated by the North Tyneside Business Forum management team, with input from external judges, including representatives from the North Tyneside Council Economic Growth team and VODA directorate.
For more information on how to nominate or get involved, visit www. northtynesidebusinessawards.co.uk/heartof-the-community-award