How judging works
The Stars of Children & Young People’s Social Care Awards recognise exceptional contributions to the safety, wellbeing and opportunities of children and young people, alongside support for families and colleagues.
Judging is based on written nominations. Our awards judging team reviews entries against the relevant category criteria, considering the contribution described, the examples provided and the impact demonstrated.
Reviewing nominations
Entries are reviewed to identify those that most clearly demonstrate the qualities and achievements recognised by each category. These entries form the shortlist.
Selecting winners
Shortlisted nominations receive further consideration before winners and highly commended teams are selected. Decisions are based on the information submitted, so clear examples are essential.
We look for:
Contribution: the skills, understanding and commitment demonstrated by the nominee.
Child-centred practice: how their work reflects children and young people’s needs, wishes, rights and aspirations.
Impact: the difference made to safety, wellbeing, relationships, opportunities or the quality of care and support.
Evidence: specific examples, feedback or results supporting the nomination, including children and young people’s perspectives where appropriate.
The emphasis will vary according to the category.
Giving your nominees the strongest opportunity
Explain what the nominee did, how they responded to the circumstances and what changed as a result. General praise is welcome, but specific examples help judges understand why the achievement deserves recognition.
Meaningful evidence can include growing confidence, a trusting relationship, greater stability, progress towards a personal goal or a successful transition, alongside measurable results.
Announcing the results
Winners and highly commended teams are announced at the awards ceremony and published on our website.