The Community Champion Awards are a way for Paddle UK to recognise and celebrate the fantastic work happening across the paddling community — whether you’re a club, delivery partner, community group, or regional team.
These awards are open to:
- Affiliated clubs
- Delivery Partners
- Community Development teams
- Partner organisations
- Community paddling groups
You can apply for any number of awards — and even work towards collecting the full set!
What’s Changing?
We’re moving from a formal accreditation process to a more inclusive awards-based approach. Instead of a checklist, we’re asking you to submit a simple portfolio of evidence that shows how your organisation meets the criteria for each award.
Current awards available are #ShePaddles, Clear Access, Clear Waters (CACW), Junior Champion, and Talent Champion. Choose the tabs below for more detail. Also, coming soon are Inclusive Paddling and Adaptive Paddling awards
Award Criteria at a glance
How to Apply
You can achieve an award in three ways:
- Self-apply online through the form below
- Awarded by Paddle UK staff if your work is recognised during a visit or conversation.
- Nominated by Paddle UK based on community recommendations or visibility.
How Long Does the Award Last?
Each award is valid for 12 months. You can renew each year by updating your achievements and submitting a refreshed application.
Award winners receive a digital certificate (dated by year), a digital plaque (added to JustGo), and the option to be featured by Paddle UK
Each month, we’ll also select one standout award winner for a visit from your Community Development Team to celebrate and support your efforts.
Final Word
This is your chance to celebrate your team, share your achievements, and become part of a growing national network of paddling excellence. Whether you’re affiliated with Paddle UK or not, we want to hear your story.
Apply below today and get recognised for the amazing work you’re doing in your paddling community.