SMK Campaigner Awards

The annual SMK Campaigner Awards provide a support programme for emerging and grassroots campaigners.

Campaigning can be exhilarating and rewarding but we know that the reality is often hard work and a lot of frustration. The awards scheme offers a development package to campaigners who are new to the field or operating with very little resources. The aim is to equip them with the skills they need to make a greater impact and achieve real change.

We make 12 awards to campaigners working across a wide range of issues. The package of support we offer is completely bespoke to the individual, comprising an initial assessment; one-to-one coaching sessions; development workshops; and shadowing or mentoring opportunities.

The awards do not offer cash prizes but rather draw on the expertise of experienced campaigners and use a model of action learning to share knowledge and acquire skills.

"The SMK Award affirmed for me that individuals can create change, on their own and working with others. I didn’t think I’d have any hope of winning this award because I thought what we were campaigning on was too controversial. But SMK backs people who have got positive ideas, drive and commitment”.

Tara Flood, Alliance for Inclusive Education, one of 12 SMK Award Winners from 2008