Remarkable people, stories of strength and moments of celebration filled The Halston as People First hosted its fourth consecutive Awards. Guests from across Cumbria, including Academy Learners, their families, supporters and local businesses, came together to celebrate achievement and explore how we can all help build a stronger, more inclusive Cumbria.
This year’s event was hosted by Lindsay Graham, Director of Delivery and Impact at People First, and Jonathan Solomons, former learner and current Creating Careers candidate. Their combined experience — professional leadership and lived expertise — set the tone for an evening rooted in community, empowerment and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to live a good life.
At the heart of this year’s awards was the theme Keys to Citizenship: the essential elements we all need to thrive — love, life, freedom, purpose, money, relationships, home, and giving and receiving help. Throughout the night, learners, employers and partners were recognised for the ways they help unlock these keys every day across Cumbria.
People First were delighted to welcome philosopher and social innovator Dr Simon Duffy, co-founder of Citizen Network, who has worked to advance social justice for over three decades. Simon spoke about how we can all create the conditions for all people, and those with a learning disability and autistic people to live full, meaningful lives. His message reinforced the importance of shared responsibility, belonging and the power of opportunity.
David Blacklock, CEO of People First, said:
“The People First Awards are a powerful reminder of what happens when communities come together with purpose. This year’s theme — the Keys to Citizenship — reflects our belief that everyone deserves the chance to live a good life. These awards celebrate learners who have worked incredibly hard, employers who open their doors with generosity, and partners who share our commitment to inclusion. Together, we are building a Cumbria where everyone belongs.”
The evening celebrated the achievements of learners from the People First Academy, including those who completed Open Awards qualifications in Best Life, Hospitality, and Independent Travel Training — supported by headline sponsor Borderway Finance, whose generosity once again made the event possible.
Celebrating achievement across Cumbria
This year’s award winners represent extraordinary commitment, growth and contribution:
- Learner of the Year — Sponsored by Pirelli
Winner: Jordan Stanger - Placement of the Year — Sponsored by Julie Bell Consulting
Winner: Eden Valley Hospice - Learner’s Choice Award — Sponsored by Dodd & Co
Winner: Emily Kriese - Increased Confidence Award — Sponsored by Cartmell Shepherd
Winner: Marcell Kiss - Most Improved Award — Sponsored by Healthwatch Cumberland
Winner: Jay Flitton - Rising Star Award — Sponsored by PrintPoint
Winner: Oliver Hacker - Shining Example Award — Sponsored by Carrs Billington
Winner: Cumbria Health - Professional Services Award — Sponsored by David Allen IT
Winner: Rosie Cullis - Team Player Award — Sponsored by Cumberland Council
Winner: William Armstrong - Above & Beyond Award — Sponsored by The Halston
Winner: Harvey Palliser - Self Advocacy Award — Sponsored by University of Cumbria
Winner: Morgan Wieland - Deeper Connections Award — Sponsored by The National Lottery Community Fund
Winner: Callum Forsyth
Alongside the awards, dozens of learners proudly received their Open Awards qualifications — marking major milestones in confidence, independence and employability.
To find out more about the People First Awards or opportunities for business partnerships, contact [email protected]
Congratulations to all the 2026 graduates and award winners!