A CHARITY which aims to inspire social change is urging people to nominate community projects that have had an impact in their neighbourhood.

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation, an independent organisation working to solve UK poverty, is supporting this year's York Community Pride Awards.

The charity is sponsoring the Best Community Project prize for initiatives carried out by an informal, non-recognised voluntary group.

Emma Stone, director of outcomes at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust said: “As an organisation we are proud of our long history of supporting strong, inclusive communities for all ages across York.

“The Best Community Project Award is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the success and huge impact that local groups are having across York on a daily basis.

“If there is a community project making a valuable difference in your local area, please do take a moment to submit your nomination.”

The JRF aims to inspire positive change through research, policy, collaboration and practical solutions.

The foundation hopes to create a prosperous UK without poverty where everyone has an affordable home, a good living standard and prospects.

They also want to help more people find a route out of poverty through work and a better system of social security.

Last year's winner of the Best Community Project award was the popular Chill in the Community cafe in Acomb, which was handed the prize for developing a neighbourhood hub to support residents from all backgrounds.

The Community Pride Awards are run by The Press in partnership with City of York Council and the primary sponsor is York-based healthcare organisation Benenden.

All nominees must live in, or contribute to life in, the City of York Council area.

Three finalists from each category will be invited to the awards ceremony at York Racecourse in October, when the winners will be revealed.

Entries can be posted to York Community Pride Awards, The Press, 84-86 Walmgate, York YO1 9YN.

Or submit your nomination online at yorkpress.co.uk/communitypride.

The closing date for entries is Friday, July 27.

Nominations must include a supporting statement of no more than two sides of A4 with each entry and may include a photograph, which unfortunately we will be unable to return.