We're delighted to share that we were shortlisted for the Social Value & Community Impact Award at the Sheffield Business Awards 2026, recognising the impact of our pioneering youth social prescribing service and the difference it continues to make for young people across Sheffield.
"Being shortlisted for the social value and community impact award at last week's Business Awards was a testament to the work of our social prescribing staff and our values and guiding principles. To be nominated alongside so many amazing services and businesses was a huge honour. The support we received from partner organisations particularly Special Melted Products made the event even more special and has further fuelled our ambitions for young people in Sheffield." Chris Hood, CEO
Since 2019, Sheffield Futures has delivered Sheffield's first and only dedicated social prescribing service for children and young people. The service supports young people aged 13-25 who may be experiencing challenges such as anxiety, low mood, loneliness, or difficulties connecting with education, employment, and their communities.
Through personalised, one-to-one support, our team helps young people identify what matters to them, overcome barriers, and access opportunities in their communities, from sports and arts activities to volunteering, training, and specialist support services. Unlike traditional signposting, our approach focuses on building trusted relationships and supporting young people every step of the way.
In two years alone, we supported 969 young people, delivered 3,419 one-to-one sessions, and enabled more than 2,600 connections with community services and activities across Sheffield. Independent evaluation found the service generated more than £5 million in social value, equivalent to £7 for every £1 invested.
A Model Making a Difference
Our youth social prescribing model has become recognised nationally and internationally, helping to shape guidance and best practice beyond Sheffield. Yet at its heart, the service remains focused on local young people and ensuring they can access the support they need before challenges reach crisis point.
Young people consistently tell us they feel listened to, taken seriously, and supported to make positive changes in their lives. Outcomes show improvements in wellbeing, confidence, community connection, and resilience.
We were also incredibly grateful to attend the Business Awards last Thursday night thanks to the generous invitation from Special Melted Products, the winners of the Large Organisation of the Year Award.
Why Continued Investment Matters
While we're incredibly proud of what has been achieved, demand for support continues to grow. Too many young people face barriers to accessing activities, opportunities, and services that could improve their wellbeing and future prospects.
Youth social prescribing offers an effective, preventative solution. By helping young people build confidence, strengthen community connections, and access the right support at the right time, we can improve lives while reducing pressure on overstretched health and public services.
"Social Prescribing is so important because it brings connection, enjoyment and community into young people's worlds. It can bring young people out of isolation and loneliness and help them feel listened to without judgement. When someone connects with a hobby or an interest, and they do well at it or get enjoyment from it, that then boosts their self-esteem and confidence in a really simple way that can massively impact their mental health and wellbeing. Social Prescribing isn't just about signposting and referring but providing low level support with mental health issues that impact the ability to connect and get involved in their community. Together this approach can have long lasting effects, and in turn, could stop the need for further support being needed. In order to have lasting impact, funding is vital to ensure support is available for all young people in every area and for each stage of life they enter." Eloise Georgiou, Service Manager
Looking Ahead
Being shortlisted for this award is a fantastic recognition of the dedication of our team, our partners, and most importantly the young people who engage with the service every day.
As we look to the future, we're committed to expanding access, reaching more young people, and ensuring that youth social prescribing remains available to those who need it most.
We'd like to thank everyone who has supported this work and congratulate Ammi's Kitchen, the incredibly well-deserved winners of the Social Value and Community Impact Award and People's Choice Award.