Campaign Recognises Borough's Community Heroes

South Tyneside has been celebrating the work of unsung heroes who have supported communities during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The #ProudtoSupport campaign, which launched on Friday 24 April, invited people to nominate someone for a special #ProudtoSupport 'thank you' and to share their inspiring stories.  

The campaign came to an end last week and since its launch, has received nearly 300 nominations across many sectors, including council workers, health and other public sector workers, businesses, local groups and individuals who have played a part.

The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Norman Dick, said: "The coronavirus pandemic is having a huge impact on everyday lives, with people having to change the way they live and work. The people of South Tyneside are really going above and beyond to support each other during these exceptionally challenging times, stepping out of their day-to-day role or playing a part so that others can carry out their essential roles or help those in need.

"The #Proud campaign helped to celebrate the work of special people and has shown that community spirit continues to thrive in South Tyneside. It's truly inspiring to read stories about how people in South Tyneside are helping their neighbours, friends, families, businesses and the NHS sector, making such a big difference and bringing a smile to someone's face.

"The Mayoress and I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has played a part in supporting our communities during this difficult time. We are extremely #Proud."

Some of the activities recognised by the campaign include creating food parcels for vulnerable members of the community, making PPE equipment, fundraising to support others, as well as a myriad of other acts of kindness.

The schools and children centres across the Borough have also received nominations for looking after the children of key workers and vulnerable children as well as ensuring pupils have access to learning materials whilst at home.

Helen Smith, Headteacher at St Oswald's CE VA Primary and #Proud nominee, said: "The campaign did an excellent job during this very difficult time and a boost in community spirit can't be seen as anything other than an extremely positive thing. It is heartwarming to read the stories of so many inspirational people that we have here in the Borough. As a mental health champion school this means a lot and will help the well-being of all stakeholders within our community."   

The campaign supports the Council's aim to grow Civic Pride and showcases the Council's Co-operative Council approach.

Fhiza Leonard, another #Proud nominee who supplied vital care packages to vulnerable people and also set up a hot meal delivery service, said: "I was over-joyed when a local councillor nominated me for the #ProudtoSupport campaign. I didn't start helping the elderly and vulnerable for personal recognition but after receiving a letter from the Mayor's Office and seeing a lovely article about my cause on social media, it made me reflect on how much good work I have been carrying out. It elevated my motivation levels to keep pushing to reach more of the vulnerable in our amazing Borough."

Nominations for the campaign are now closed but members of the public can follow #LoveSouthTyneside on Facebook and Twitter @LoveSTyneside to find out ways to get involved in the community and to be the first to hear about more community awards.