Hartlepool community centre that led community response after 2024 riot wins King's Award
Volunteers of a Hartlepool centre that helped lead the response to 2024’s riot have been awarded royal honour for their outstanding contribution to the area.
The Salaam Community Centre in Murray Street has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2026.
It is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.
Following the riot in Hartlepool in 2024, The Salaam Community Centre issued a call to action to bring the community back together and help repair the damage sustained in the area.
Hundreds of people answered the call, volunteering their time to clean up, help put things right and support their neighbours.
That spirit of community action has continued and through their ideas, dedication and hard work, a core group of volunteers has helped shape The Salaam into a thriving community centre in the heart of Victoria Ward.
Salaam Community Centre manager Nancy Pout said: “We are delighted that the volunteers at The Salaam Community Centre have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
“It is a wonderful recognition of their hard work, commitment and care for our community.
“Whether they are welcoming someone through the door, helping in the shop, sharing food or taking time to listen, they make a difference every day.
“At The Salaam, we respect our diversity and celebrate the things that bring us together as one community. Our volunteers put those values into practice.”
Based at St Paul’s Hall, the centre welcomes people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds.
Volunteers help run a Community Shop, while the centre’s free Community Food Pantry shares surplus food with anyone.
The Salaam also offers activities for young people, help with digital skills and opportunities to meet others.
Mike Butterwick CBE, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of County Durham, said: “I am absolutely delighted that the Salaam Community Centre has been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service today.
“They are a beacon of community integration and social cohesion. They work tirelessly to support tolerance and shared values, and they are richly deserving winners of this most prestigious award.”
Volunteers of the centre will receive the crystal award and certificate from the Lord-Lieutenant in the coming months.
Two representatives will also attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace next year.