We are thrilled to announce that Forward Carers has won the Third Sector Organisation of the Year Award at the 2021 Birmingham Post Business Awards. We were crowned the winner at a virtual awards ceremony on the evening of 15 June, hosted by ITV weather presenter Emma Jesson.

Here is part of our nomination:

Since we started in 2014, Carers and families have been at the heart of all of our work, because they are the hearts of our wonderful communities here in Birmingham. This past year was really tough, but we were inspired by the incredible hard work and dedication of Carers to achieve more than we knew was possible.

During the pandemic we continued to provide support to carers, with all of our services continuing in one way or another. We also supported Carers in terms of online support groups and wellbeing groups. We took to the streets with doorstep visits, knocking doors just to check that carers were safe and well.

We feel proud of our partnerships and our region, and we want to thank all Carers for everything they do.

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and Witton Lodge Community Association were also worthy organisations shortlisted for this award.

Marc Reeves Marketplace Publisher at Reach plc presented the award on behalf of sponsor In your Area. Marc said,



“Already providing vital support for Unpaid Carers looking after frail and vulnerable loved ones, this organisation really stepped up to the plate when the pandemic hit. Not only did they ensure that their vital services carried on they buckled down and made over 6,000 extra support phone calls to those who needed it and distributed nearly £400,000 in Emergency Funds and Wellbeing Budgets. This year’s winner of the Third Sector Organisation of the Year is, Forward carers CIC.”

Forward Carers CEO, Simon Fenton made a heartfelt acceptance speech which you can watch here.

Simon later added, “Forward Carers is delighted and honoured to win the Third Sector Birmingham Post Award! We’re humbled to be recognised for what we do supporting family Carers who care for loved ones in their time of need!

So we are dedicating this award to all the half a million or so Carers from across the West Midlands, particularly those who lost loved ones in the past year.

Thanks to the all the Forward Carers Team – grand job as always, all our voluntary organisation delivery partners, many of whom are the lifeblood of our communities in Birmingham –  and finally thanks to BusinessLive, Birmingham Post, the organisers and Sponsors of the #BPBAwards“

The whole of the awards ceremony can be watched here.