We're immensely proud to have been named finalists in the 'Best Covid-19 Community Response' category at the 2021 Football Business Awards.
The award recognises the outstanding work undertaken by a club to support its community during the pandemic and has been split into Premier League and Non-Premier League categories.
This amazing recognition comes as a result of various initiatives throughout the pandemic, which began with our first-team management, players and club legend Les Bradd making more than 350 phone calls to elderly, vulnerable and key-worker supporters to bring them some cheer and companionship in the first lockdown.
We also launched a Crowdfunder campaign for Age UK Notts which later blossomed into an official partnership, paving the way for us to raise more vital funds at such a crucial and pressurised time for the charity.
Our community-led approach has been carried into our commercial operations this season, too, with us forging a unique partnership with Cadbury which saw the world-famous chocolate company become our home shirt sponsors before donating the inventory to our travel partners, Sharpes of Nottingham, whose business had been decimated by the pandemic.
We have been nominated alongside the following clubs/organisations and will be attending the ceremony at the Brewery, London, on Tuesday 6 July.
- Ashton Gate Stadium – Bristol City FC
- Brentford FC
- Bristol Rovers FC
- Derby County FC Community Trust
- Dons Local Action Group with AFC Wimbledon Foundation
- Port Vale Foundation Trust
- Rangers Charity Foundation
A statement from our board of directors reads: "We are absolutely delighted that the club's efforts to engage and support the local community during such a challenging time have been recognised in this way.
"We understand and respect the important role we have to play in our local area and have been humbled by the response to our initiatives from supporters and members of the community alike.
"This recognition also reflects the incredible work of our staff who have worked so hard this year to deliver our many amazing projects. We say a huge thank you to them and will have our fingers crossed that they bring the award home to Meadow Lane."
The Football Business Awards, now in their ninth year, recognise and reward excellence in the business of football. In these trickiest of times, this year's ceremony will salute the achievements, creativity and resilience of the teams behind the scenes. Click here to view a full list of finalists across all categories.