Those who go the extra mile for communities in Wyre Forest were recognised in a special awards ceremony last week.

A total of twelve organisations and individuals received No Barriers Awards on Thursday, November 30, in an event organised by Wyre Forest District Council at its chambers.

The awards recognise local businesses and individuals that have provided significant access, service or employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

They also celebrate those who have given particular consideration for the wider needs of people within the community including nursing mothers.

Councillor Fran Oborski said: “It was a wonderful evening celebrating the contribution our fabulous winners make to providing an inclusive community.

“They enhance the lives of others and I hope they know how much we appreciate what they do.”

The first No Barriers Awards were held in 2008 in memory of Councillor Mike Oborski who started the project.

Councillor Oborski’s wife and chair of the awards panel, Councillor Fran Oborski, presented the awards last week where the winners also heard from inspirational speaker Chloe Bayliss.

Ms Bayliss overcame major health issues to achieve an Honours Degree and now has a successful career in stage and tv makeup as well as running her own face painting business.

Councillor Fran Obsorki added: “We also hope that by highlighting the wonderful things they are doing it will encourage others to do the same.

“Our thanks also to Chloe for being part of the awards. Her talk on her own journey highlighted how with perseverance we can cultivate potential and opportunities.”

The full list of winners are:

  • Ann Hewitt for devoting her life to caring for others
  • Areyoureadytococo for being inclusive at the hair and beauty salon
  • Beverley Coldrick for the work she does at Community Transport Wyre Forest
  • Blossom Tree Café for giving students with additional needs working life skills
  • Emotions for offering people with disabilities the chance to dance
  • Hannah Escott from Open Trail for her work engaging with young people
  • McDonald’s in Weavers Wharf for always helping and accommodating people with disabilities
  • Pods by Aspire for their work and activities for people with learning disabilities
  • Church wardens, Peter and Kathy Jezukiewicz, from St Peter’s Church, Birchen Coppice, for their dedication to community events and welcome to all.
  • The community volunteers at St Peter’s Church, Birchen Coppice, for supporting events and providing an accessible and welcoming space for all.
  • Sue Gowan for her commitment to a falls prevention class
  • Wheely Different Theatre Company for providing a safe environment for performing arts.