Our 2027 Making a Difference Awards are open for entries
11 Nov 2026
Our 2027 Making a Difference Awards are open for entries
Are you making a difference to society or the environment, or do you know someone who is? Now is your chance to celebrate that work by entering or nominating someone for the University’s 2027 Making a Difference Awards for social responsibility.
The Making a Difference Awards shine a spotlight on the incredible work our colleagues, students, alumni, and external partners are doing to improve lives, support communities, and create positive change across our campus and beyond - locally, nationally and globally.
As social responsibility continues to be central to our University and is one of the five foundations of Manchester 2035, the Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the many different ways our community is putting that commitment into action. They recognise exceptional efforts in social responsibility, help share best practice and give inspiring work greater visibility across the University and beyond.
Colleagues can be recognised in eight categories. Previous winners have included those breaking down barriers to make music and cultural activities more accessible and inclusive; introducing a reusable cup scheme to reduce disposable waste across campus; and developing a digital system that shifts care for psychosis from crisis response to proactive prevention. Together, our colleagues are helping to create a fairer, healthier, and more sustainable world and the Awards shine a light on the many ways they are doing this.
If you are thinking of entering, take inspiration from our previous winners. For many, the Awards provide valuable recognition and renewed motivation, while helping to raise the profile of their work and attract further interest and support.
John Ainsworth, Professor of Health Informatics, won a Making a Difference Award in 2026 for his project which included the development of a digital app offering real time symptom tracking and digital access to online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy support for people with schizophrenia. John said: "For me, winning a Making a Difference Award was particularly meaningful because it recognised not only the research, but why we do it: to improve outcomes for people living with schizophrenia. It was also recognition of a tremendous team effort. The award has given us renewed confidence in the value of our work and encouragement to continue developing approaches that can translate research into better, more personalised mental healthcare.”
Professor Nalin Thakkar, Vice-President for Social Responsibility said: “Every day, our colleagues inspire us through their passion, creativity and determination to make a positive difference, whether here in Manchester or in communities across the world. Their commitment to making things better for others is something we should all be immensely proud of, and reflects the very best of what it means to be part of The University of Manchester.
Our Making a Difference Awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate these contributions, and the people and ideas behind them. I would love to see even more colleagues come forward this year, share their stories and inspire others. No contribution is too small. Every positive action matters, and together our colleagues are showing just how much of a difference they can make.”
All shortlisted entrants will be invited to a high-profile awards ceremony on 6 May 2027 bringing together people from across our University community to celebrate their commitment, achievements and impact. The ceremony is an opportunity to raise awareness of your work and highlight your remarkable achievements.
Enter the Making a Difference Awards now and share your work or nominate a colleague or team whose contribution deserves to be recognised.
Thinking of entering but not sure where to start? Join our online briefing session on Monday 1 December at 2pm for top tips and advice on submitting a great entry. Please email Maud Ashley to sign up to the session.
Important Information:
- Enter via the social responsibility website.
- Deadline for entries is 12 January 2027.
- Candidates can self-nominate or be nominated by a third party.
- Individuals or teams can enter.
- For more information, visit the Making a Difference Awards webpage.
- If you cannot access to an online entry form, please email socialresponsibility@manchester.ac.uk or telephone 0161-306-3044 to request a hard copy.
- To attend the briefing session on Monday 1 December, 2pm please email Maud Ashley.