British Blind Sport to host 50th Anniversary Awards

This milestone is a tribute to the countless coaches, volunteers, and advocates from across the sporting and sight loss communities who have played a vital role in making sport more inclusive and accessible. Their dedication has paved the way for lasting change.

In recognition of those who have made a visible difference, BBS are delighted to announce a special one-off awards ceremony to honour their extraordinary contributions.

Now is the time to consider who among your networks deserves recognition in the following categories.

50th Anniversary Legacy Award

For someone whose long-term commitment has shaped the direction and success of sport for blind and partially sighted people.

• To celebrate an individual with an enduring legacy
• Nominees may be founders, pioneers, advocates, or long-standing leaders
• Think about people whose impact is still visible today

Sponsored by the Thomas Pocklington Trust

Outstanding Voluntary Contribution Award

Recognising a long-term volunteer to BBS who has made an outstanding contribution to sport for people with sight loss.

• For individuals who have given time, energy, and expertise over many years
• Could include event organisers, fundraisers, committee members, or support staff
• Recognition for someone who goes above and beyond, often behind the scenes

Sponsored by Activity Alliance

Inclusive Coaching Recognition Award

For someone whose coaching career has directly improved inclusion, participation and performance opportunities for those with sight loss.

• A recognition for a coach who champions making sport accessible
• Can be grassroots or performance-level coaches
• BBS are looking for an individual who puts the athlete at the heart of their work and adapts their approach to enabled athletes to thrive

Change Maker Award

For someone who has driven policy, programme or cultural change in support of blind and partially sighted athletes.

• A recognised leader or influencer who has helped change the perceptions, the game or rules to raise the profile of VI sport and/or make VI sport more accessible
• Could be from sport, the sight loss sector, education or other sectors
• This person is someone who has had a lasting impact and helped create positive systemic change

Sponsored by Arburg Ltd

Future Leader Award

For a young person (under 25) who has already demonstrated commitment to making sport better for others.

• This award is to shine a light on the next generation of leaders
• Nominees could be athletes, volunteers, coaches, or advocates
• BBS are looking for someone who is already making positive waves in the disability sport sector
• Recognises passion, leadership potential, and commitment to inclusion

Sponsored by Blythe Liggins

Inclusive Practice Recognition Award

For an organisation who has made a meaningful and sustained contribution by increasing blind and partially sighted participation.

• Recognises organisations embedding inclusion into their culture
• Could be clubs, governing bodies, schools, or community groups
• Celebrates innovation, long-term commitment, and measurable outcomes

Sponsored by Project One

To nominate an individual or organisation complete this online form by Friday 10th October.