Salford Springboard Heroes 2026 finalists unveiled

News | 4 November 2026

Three inspiring community projects making a difference to people’s lives across Salford have been shortlisted for the annual Springboard Heroes Awards – and now it’s over to the public to choose the winner.

From protecting young people from gang crime and supporting families of children with Down Syndrome, to breaking down barriers to sport for people with disabilities, this year’s finalists represent a diverse range of causes at the heart of the Salford community.

The awards, organised by Salix Homes, celebrate some of the inspirational grassroots groups and projects supported through our Springboard Community Fund.

The Springboard Fund provides grants to local initiatives that bring communities together, improve health and wellbeing, tackle isolation and create opportunities for people across Salford, with £33,000 awarded to local projects last year alone.

Now, three projects that have previously benefited from Springboard funding have been selected as this year’s finalists, with the public invited to vote for their favourite. The winning project will receive an additional £1,000 to support its work.

The Springboard Heroes finalists for 2026 are:

Prevent 2 Protect – A Salford-based charity working to protect children and young people from gang involvement, knife crime and County Lines exploitation. Its GANG for LIFE project combines sports activities with educational workshops in schools across Salford and beyond, helping young people understand the risks of criminal exploitation and make safer choices.

A Little Extra – Salford’s only support group dedicated to families raising children with Down Syndrome. Meeting every Saturday at the Broughton Hub in Salford, the group provides a welcoming space for children to play and make friends, while offering parents and carers a valuable support network.

DOSportUK – An organisation making sport more accessible for people with disabilities. Through inclusive sporting activities, including the Salford Knights basketball sessions at Eccles College, DOSportUK helps participants improve their fitness, develop confidence, build friendships and feel part of their community.

Gemma Parlby, Executive Director of Customer and Landlord Services at Salix Homes, said: “We’re incredibly proud of the difference our Springboard Community Fund is making across Salford, supporting local groups and projects that are working at the heart of our communities.

“This year’s finalists show just how varied and valuable that work is. Whether it’s helping protect young people from crime and exploitation, supporting families who might otherwise feel isolated, or ensuring everyone has the opportunity to enjoy sport, these are projects that are changing lives for the better.

“The Springboard Heroes Awards are our way of celebrating that fantastic work and giving these groups some well-deserved recognition, as well as the chance to secure an extra funding boost. We’d encourage everyone to take a few minutes to find out more about our finalists and cast your vote. Every vote counts, and it’s a great opportunity to show your support for the people making a positive difference in Salford.”