We've been shortlisted for the NDA's

September 10, 2021

Skylarks Charity has been shortlisted for the UK’s Largest Diversity Awards.

Skylarks Charity from Richmond Upon Thames has been shortlisted for the Community Organisation Award for Age at the National Diversity Awards 2020.

A record-breaking 64,000 people were nominated this year alone, and the results are finally in for the National Diversity Awards (NDA), with an astonishing 126 nominees being recognised for their various achievements nationwide.

Skylarks is a small independent charity that provides a supportive and active community for children with additional needs. They care for the whole family, providing opportunities to join in, develop and feel empowered. They aim to remove the isolation that can be experienced by families and their children who have a disability or additional needs. Skylarks are based in Richmond upon Thames but have an open door policy. Anyone, from anywhere, is welcome.

Community organisations and role models from across the UK will head to the breathtaking Liverpool Anglican Cathedral on 17th September to witness the countries 2020 winners being crowned the best of British diversity.

Amongst those being honoured are charities, campaigners and activists, all of whom work tirelessly to combat injustice and discrimination in very different ways.

Aaron Guiver Managing Director of Skylarks Charity shortlisted for the Community Organisation Award for Age said;

“At Skylarks, we are extremely proud to be shortlisted for this much-coveted award in recognition of the programmes put in place to enable our children to thrive. It is a testament to the dedication, passion and hard work of the people within our diverse community. We feel privileged to join such a prestigious group of shortlisted charities from the thousands of nominees.

After a difficult year for all our children and families, it is an honour to celebrate the National Diversity Awards, not only to celebrate the excellent resilience shown by our children, but also the amazing achievements of the community as a whole.”

Nielsen, Direct Line Group & The Open University have recently been announced as sponsors of the pioneering awards that have paid tribute to over 800 grass root groups and diversity champions since its inception. ITV News are also listed amongst a host of companies showcasing their support to recognising diverse talent, providing a platform to our unsung heroes.

Rachel Corp, Acting Editor, ITV News said: “We are pleased that ITV News will once again be supporting the National Diversity Awards. ITV News remains committed to telling the stories of those, who through their work and dedication to helping others have made a difference; enhancing equality, diversity and inclusion in our society. We look forward to introducing the 2020 nominees to our viewers across the regions and nation.”

Designed to highlight the country's most inspirational and selfless people, the NDA's continue to gain endorsements from high profile figures such as Sir Lenny Henry CBE and Graham Norton. Activist Katie Piper, Presenters Alex Brooker & Ade Adepitan MBE and Emmerdale star Ash Palmisciano were on this year’s judging panel, dedicating their time to help choose the highly anticipated shortlist.

Actress and comedian Sally Phillips will take centre stage on 17th September as the official host of this year’s ceremony. Sally said, “This year has presented historic challenges for everyone but with them we have also seen extraordinary and heroic achievements of people fighting to keep some of our most vulnerable communities supported. We need a spotlight on our communities, need, human rights and care for those on the outside like never before. We need to meet, exchange ideas and resources and pool skills more urgently than ever. I am ever-grateful for the NDA network and couldn’t be prouder to be returning to their tremendous awards as host for a second time. See you there?”

Previous winners include actor Warwick Davis, men’s mental health charity Andys Man Club and reformed breast cancer survivor Codilia Gapare.

Paul Sesay, Founder and CEO of the National Diversity Awards added,

“During difficult and challenging times, it is now more important than ever to recognise our countries true role models. The nation has embraced the diversity of our country and exceeded every other year by submitting a record breaking 64,000 nominations and votes. Let me reiterate that creating this shortlist was no easy task. The profound impact made by all our nominees is astonishing, and I feel personally encouraged to know that so many lives are being changed for the better due to the many causes being championed by all of you.

After weeks of deliberating and thousands of heartfelt testimonials later, I am delighted to finally present to you the best of British Diversity. Congratulations to all of our shortlisted nominees, it is an honour to recognise your fearlessness, resilience and humanitarian efforts with the rest of the world. Let’s continue the fight for justice, unity and equality for all”.

To view a full list of nominees, please visit

www.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk/shortlist