Why it matters: The Suffolk Medal is the county's highest honour, recognising people who have made exceptional and lasting contributions to Suffolk communities – but too often those making the biggest difference are least likely to seek recognition themselves.
The details: Suffolk Community Foundation, which coordinates the medal, is urging local people to nominate anyone who has carried out incredible work for the benefit of the county. This year, organisers are particularly keen to receive nominations for women whose contributions may have gone under the radar.
"We always welcome a diverse range of nominations, but this year we are especially keen to hear about the women who make Suffolk shine," said Hannah Bloom, chief executive of Suffolk Community Foundation. "This could be through decades of quiet volunteering, groundbreaking leadership or tireless community advocacy."
How to nominate: Anyone can make a nomination at www.thesuffolkmedal.org.uk, though self-nominations cannot be accepted. The person being nominated must live in Suffolk or have made their contribution within the county, and must have made a sustained and significant impact on their community or the county as a whole.
The bigger picture: To date, only 19 people have received the Suffolk Medal. Previous recipients include Rebecca Crerar, CEO of Suffolk Refugee Support, who has spent over two decades advocating for the rights of refugees in the county, and Linda Hoggarth, who was honoured for her work to improve the lives of people with disabilities.
What they're saying: "The Suffolk Medal is the highest honour that the county can give to an individual," said Bloom. "It recognises, rewards and champions the people who embody the county's generosity and resilience and whose exceptional contributions have made a measurable and lasting difference to Suffolk."
She added: "Too often, the people who make the biggest difference are the least likely to seek recognition. That's why your nomination is so important - it's a chance to say thank you, shine a light on quiet heroes and inspire others to follow in their footsteps."
What's next: An awards panel will meet in November to discuss the nominees, with successful candidates presented with their medals during the 10th annual Suffolk Day on 21 June 2026.
The bottom line: Whether it's community organisers, carers, educators, environmentalists or charity champions, Suffolk's unsung heroes deserve recognition – and residents have the power to make that happen through their nominations.
