Young volunteer Ryan Eversham recognised by our Community Heroes Awards
A dedicated young volunteer who gives up his free time to support local community projects has been named the winner of our Young Person Award for 2026.
Fifteen year old Ryan Eversham from Droitwich, received the award in recognition of his outstanding commitment to volunteering and the positive impact he has made within his local community.
Sponsored by Equans, the Young Person Award celebrates young people who go above and beyond to support others and make a difference where they live.
Ryan volunteers with Moving Forward, which is part of Droitwich Spa Council for Voluntary Service, based at Westlands Community Centre. Since joining six months ago, he has become an invaluable member of the team, supporting the community fridge and cafe, helping local residents and assisting with activities for younger people.
Twice a week, Ryan arrives at the centre before 8.00am to help prepare for the day ahead, setting up tables, organising food deliveries and welcoming visitors. He also volunteers at a youth group for children aged nine to 13, a Moving Forward project supported through Platform Housing Group’s Community Chest fund.
His commitment often extends beyond his scheduled volunteering hours, regularly staying behind to help unload deliveries and supporting community events across the area.
Ryan said: “I started volunteering because when I was being home educated and wanted something positive to do with my time. I wasn’t very confident when I first came along but everyone made me feel so welcome.
“What I enjoy most is meeting people and having a chat with them. It’s been great getting involved, learning new things and helping out wherever I can. Winning this award is a real surprise and I’m really grateful.”
Staff at Moving Forward have seen Ryan grow significantly in confidence since joining the organisation.
His reliability, enthusiasm and willingness to help have made him a popular and valued volunteer among both staff and service users.
The award was presented by Tony King, one of our Board Members.
Tony said: “Ryan is a fantastic example of the positive difference young people can make in their communities when they’re given the opportunity to get involved.
“His commitment, enthusiasm and willingness to help others are truly inspiring. What impressed us most was not only the amount of time he gives to volunteering, but the positive attitude he brings every time he walks through the door.
“Ryan is making a real difference to the people around him and he should be incredibly proud of what he has achieved. He is a thoroughly deserving winner of this year’s Young Person Award.”
Through his volunteering, Ryan has supported hundreds of local residents who access the community fridge and cafe, while also helping younger children develop confidence and social connections through youth activities.
His story demonstrates how volunteering can benefit both communities and the individuals who give their time to help others.
Matt Vardy, Commercial Manager at Equans said: “We’re delighted to support our partners at Platform Housing Group in recognising those who are driving change in their communities. The Young Person category is particularly close to our heart as it’s the perfect chance to celebrate the stars of the future who are making a real difference to the places they call home.
“Ryan embodies everything this award represents. His dedication, positivity and commitment to helping others show that age is no barrier to making a meaningful contribution to your community. Congratulations to Ryan on this well deserved recognition.”
The Community Heroes Awards celebrate individuals, groups and organisations who go above and beyond to strengthen communities across our neighbourhoods.
Ryan’s award highlights the important role young people play in creating connected, supportive communities and demonstrates how volunteering can help build confidence, skills and lasting positive change.
Equans is a leading provider of regeneration, retrofit, repairs and maintenance services across the UK. Equans works with housing providers and local authorities to create sustainable communities and deliver social value that makes a real difference to people’s lives.
Photo caption : l to r, Ryan Eversham, winner of the Young Person Award for 2026 and Board Member Tony King.