Scene & Heard Shortlisted in the 2025 Charity Awards
We are delighted to announce that Scene & Heard is a finalist in the 2025 Charity Awards, the UK's longest running and most prestigious awards programme for the voluntary sector.
Finalists in the Arts, Culture & Heritage category, we have been recognised for our unique model of harnessing the skills of volunteer theatre professionals to transform the lives of children in Somers Town, Camden.
Our place on the shortlist reflects the real, measurable difference we make in the lives of children in one of the country’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods. In our award entry, we shared independent evaluations and teacher feedback that consistently demonstrate the strength and impact of our approach:
100% of children feel their play was a success
92% of children improve literacy
73% go on to achieve A Level equivalent or higher compared to 58% locally
90% show more positive attitudes toward learning
92% display increased self-confidence
82% return for further courses and activities
The Charity Awards highlight organisations demonstrating innovation, leadership, and measurable impact. Scene & Heard is proud to be among 30 charities chosen by an independent panel of experts to represent best practice in the UK charity sector.
“As a grass-roots charity delivering arts programmes in the heart of Camden for over 25 years, this recognition from one of the UK’s most respected sector awards is both an honour and a huge achievement. Being shortlisted is a powerful endorsement of the quality and impact of our work, giving a great sense of pride to our staff, volunteers and beneficiaries.”
Charity Awards 2025 Ceremony
Winners will be announced at a black-tie ceremony on Thursday 3 July at the Royal Lancaster Hotel, London. The event will be hosted by BBC news presenter Asad Ahmad, with celebrities, shortlisted charities, and sector leaders in attendance.
Matthew Nolan, Chief Executive of Civil Society Media, which organises the Charity Awards, said:
“For a quarter of a century now, the Charity Awards has been showcasing and celebrating the terrific work of UK charities large and small.
“At a time when the sector is struggling with higher costs, shrinking donations and ever-increasing demand for its work, it is reassuring and inspiring to see the extent and quality of charitable activity that is still going on across the country.
“We offer our heartfelt congratulations to all the charities on this year’s shortlist; we know that times are tough and you should all be very proud of getting this far. We wish Scene & Heard the best of luck on the night.”
Peter Hugh Smith, chief executive at CCLA, Overall Partner of the Charity Awards, said:
“Every year the Charity Awards serve as a moment for the sector to reflect and acknowledge the transformative power of compassion, determination and resilience. The awards amplify the voices of those making a difference, inspiring others to join in creating positive change.
“We're honoured to renew our role as the Charity Awards’ Overall Partner, championing the remarkable efforts of charities, large and small, right across the UK.”
We look forward to the ceremony on Thursday 3 July and are proud to be part of this year’s outstanding shortlist. Wish us luck!
