When Lorna Smith from You 1st Emotional Support decided to create the ‘B Seen, B Heard’ awards, she had one clear mission: to shine a spotlight on people who never get recognised.
On Sunday 12th October at Branston Golf and Country Club, that vision became reality. The inaugural awards ceremony brought together a room full of people who dedicate their time to making Burton a better place, many of whom had never received recognition before.
The event was entirely volunteer-led, with Lorna crediting her team, particularly friends Liz and Jill, for making it happen. “We were up till 11 o’clock every night sorting out meals and details,” she said. “But you know what, it’s been worth it, absolutely worth it.”
The atmosphere was exactly what Lorna had hoped for: light-hearted fun, good food, entertainment, and a bit of dancing. Her 86-year-old auntie sat with her arms in the air, singing away. “It was just what everybody needed,” Lorna smiled.
What made the event particularly special was the diversity of attendees. Around 70% of those present were people working quietly in the community, unknown to many but making a real difference. From memorial stonemasons celebrating 15 years in business to charity volunteers who’ve never been in the spotlight, the room was full of Burton’s hidden gems.
Special guest Ben from Spud Man made a surprise appearance, arranged by Roz from Meadowside Leisure Centre, adding to the day’s excitement. “I completely forgot because I was so into organizing everything,” Lorna laughed. “Then she called me out, and he was just stood there.”
The winners represented the breadth of community spirit in Burton:
- Young Entrepreneur: Todd Reddyhoff
- New Business: Burton Echo
- Supporting the Community: Michelle Parry
- Musical Marvel: Dominic Nico Dunbar
- Unsung Hero: Ann Marie Norton
- Inspirational to You: Humanity Unites
- Makes You Laugh When You Need It Most: Care+
For Lorna, the success wasn’t just about the awards themselves. It was about creating a network of positive people and showing them they’re valued. “Nobody wants doom and gloom anymore,” she said. “This brings joy. You are seen and you are heard and you’re valued. That’s what it’s about.”
The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with attendees already asking about next year. One gentleman with extensive connections promised to spread the word about what You 1st does, saying the food was lovely, the entertainment was good, and it was exactly what a Sunday afternoon should be.
You 1st Emotional Support continues to need sponsorship and funding to support the community. If you’d like to help or find out more about their work, visit their website or get in touch through their social media channels.
As Lorna said, “If we can do that again and get more people that are out there, instead of the same people being nominated or given awards, so they know how valued they are, that’s what it’s about.”
