Nominations are now open for awards recognising inspiring young people across Nottinghamshire.
Nottinghamshire Police’s annual Nxt Gen Awards shine a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of young people from across Nottinghamshire, and nominations are now open.
Parents, guardians, youth workers, teachers, coaches, club leaders, carers, and professionals are being urged to nominate any young person who has made an exceptional contribution to their community and deserves to be celebrated.
The awards, which officially launch today (Thursday, 1 January), are open to anyone aged between nine and 18 who lives or goes to school in Nottinghamshire.
Entering its sixth year, the force’s prestigious evening of celebration has undergone a makeover, having previously been known as the Live Our Best Life Awards.
The Nxt Gen Awards incorporates Nottinghamshire’s recognisable ‘NG’ postcode, with strokes of a green and gold colourway, firmly cementing the county’s civic heritage at the heart of these celebrations.
The move, which involved the input of young people, will better align the force’s efforts to engage with the next generation.
More than 120 people were nominated for the awards in 2025.
Two nominees for each category will be invited to the ceremony at Nottinghamshire Police’s impressive multi-million-pound headquarters for an evening of hospitality and entertainment on Friday, 8 May.
This year’s guests enjoyed performances from circus-style acrobats, fire dancers, and the Nottinghamshire Police band.
Acts are already preparing for 2026, including Inspire Urself Carnival Troupe, who recently performed at the force’s community talent show.
Each category winner and runner-up will receive either a trophy or framed certificate, and a selection of other prizes in recognition of their hard work.
Nominations close at 11.45pm on Sunday, February 1, before a panel of judges shortlists the nominees.
The six public award categories open for nominations are:
- Lyrico Steede Award – Awarded to a young person who may have been involved in gangs, knife crime or other criminality but has made significant progress to turn their life around and inspired others.
- Rising Above Adversity Award – Celebrates a young individual who has overcome significant personal or social obstacles and become a beacon of hope for others.
- Youth Impact Award – For a young person who demonstrates honesty, fairness, and strong moral principles, and who has made an impact on people’s lives.
- Youth Creative Excellence Award – For young talents who have contributed to the arts and cultural enrichment of their community through singing, dancing, acting or anything creative.
- Leadership Award – Recognises young people who lead projects, show initiative, and encourage others to do their best, whilst showing reliability.
- Inspiring Young Minds Award – Recognises acts of courage, whether standing up for what’s right, helping others in danger, or facing personal challenges.
Inspector Paul Peatfield is Nottinghamshire Police’s lead for engagement, which run the awards.
He said: “We are delighted to open our awards to recognise the amazing achievements of young people in 2026.
“Each year we receive so many worthy nominations showcasing the incredible talent of youngsters or those who have overcome adversity – and it is no easy task to shortlist the final nominees.
“Dozens of exceptional young people have been acknowledged since these awards were first launched in 2021.
“At Nottinghamshire Police, we champion the amazing work young people are doing across the county, and it is wonderful each year to hear their personal stories and achievements.
“Working directly with Nottinghamshire’s young people is incredibly important to help us earn their trust and confidence.
“The Nxt Gen Awards are just one way we are strengthening relationships with our communities and working with young people, schools, and colleges to give them a voice and a platform to celebrate their achievements.
“I would urge any parent, guardian, coach or other professional, if you know a young person worthy of recognition, then we want you to help us celebrate their achievements – nominate now!”
To nominate a young person, complete the submission form using the following link: Nxt Gen Awards Nomination Form 2026
