Meet our 2026 Loving Later Life Award winners

Our Loving Later Life Awards give others the opportunity to nominate and recognise residents who have made a real difference to their community.

The annual awards celebrate the achievements of people living with Anchor who go the extra mile to support others, bring people together, share their skills and make a positive difference. This year, a resident judging panel selected winners across nine categories, with the winners announced at a special celebration where they received certificates and £100 in gift vouchers.

The 2026 winners are:

Local Legend Award – Hanover Court, Penzance

Hanover Court in Penzance, Cornwall, has been recognised for the warmth and closeness of its community. Residents look out for one another, get involved in activities and events, and make sure people feel welcome, included and connected.

Location Manager Debbie Waller said:

I am so unbelievably proud of this place. All the residents really do make such an effort, so it means a lot to see that recognised with this award.

Helpful Hero Award – Leslie Cohen, Ingleborough Middlesex

Leslie, a resident at Ingleborough housing development in Middlesex, was recognised for his kindness, support for fellow residents and involvement in resident forums and wellbeing activities. He regularly takes part in community events and makes time to check in with others.

Leslie said:

I can’t believe I have even been nominated, let alone won. I’m so lucky to have the best community around me, so thank you.

Paw’some Pet Award – Foster, Moorfield Court, Nottinghamshire

Foster, a much-loved dog at Moorfield Court in Southwell, has won the Paw’some Pet Award for the joy and companionship he brings to residents. Foster regularly visits residents alongside his owner, Karen, and is a familiar and much-loved face around the community.

The judges said: 

A lovely dog doesn’t just care for their owner, but cares for the whole community. That’s exactly what Foster does and why everyone loves him.

Involvement Icon Award – Stephen Mellet, Westcombe Lodge, North West London

Stephen, a resident at Westcombe Lodge housing development in Hayes, was recognised for the opportunities he creates for residents to socialise, enjoy themselves and feel connected. From organising trips to arranging activities closer to home, Stephen is always looking for ways to bring people together.

Stephen said:

It’s a pleasure to be able to do what I do every day.

Fabulous Fundraiser Award – Charles Richardson, Deer Mead Court, Romford

Charles, a resident at Deer Mead Court in Essex, was recognised for his long-term charity fundraising and volunteer work. He volunteers at his local hospital and has taken on challenges including skydiving and abseiling to raise money for charity, with the support of family, friends and fellow residents.

Charles said: 

I’m really pleased and excited to see where my fundraising efforts take me next year!

Neighbour Like No Other Award – James Rae, Hanover Court, Hampshire

James, a resident at Hanover Close in Andover, was recognised for the support he provides to his neighbours. Whether taking residents to appointments, helping with practical tasks or working on projects such as a community garden bench, James is always willing to help.

James said:

It’s nice to be thought of, and I couldn’t have done it without everyone else in our lovely community!

Bloomin’ Marvellous Gardener Fruit & Veg Award – Dennis Roft, Pegasus Court, Hertfordshire

Dennis, a resident at Pegasus Court in Watford, was recognised for his front garden, which has become a place for neighbours and local people to stop, chat and share gardening tips. A former landscape gardener, Dennis also uses his experience to help others with their own gardens.

Dennis said:

I just love that everyone can sit and talk to me in my front garden, and it’s lovely to know how my community supports me.

Environmental Champion Award – Ruth Major, Chyventon, Cornwall

Ruth, a resident at Chyventon housing development in Forth Noweth, was recognised for her Beautify Britain campaign, which encourages people to tackle litter through small daily actions. Known as ‘Rubbish Ruth’, she has campaigned across the country and appeared on local and national radio to raise awareness of litter and environmental issues.

Ruth said:

Small actions multiplied by millions of people can change the world, and I just want as many people as possible to know about and get on board with this campaign.

Rachael Shimmin, CEO of Anchor, said: 

I’m so pleased to be able to celebrate the amazing achievements of our residents through our Loving Later Life Awards. It’s incredible to see residents recognised for the positive impact they’ve had on their communities. The sheer number of nominations this year shows just how much of a difference they’re making. A huge congratulations to all our winners and nominees.

The winners demonstrate the many different ways people can make a difference in later life, from supporting neighbours and bringing communities together to fundraising, sharing skills and caring for the environment.

For more information about Anchor’s Loving Later Life Awards, visit here.