Midlands: A Sandwell-based organisation that has successfully united residents, charities and public services to dramatically improve neighbourhood safety has been shortlisted for a major regional award.
Steppingstones in the Community (SITC) has been named a finalist for the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner’s Outstanding Community Group Award 2026.
Powered by a diverse volunteer base representing more than 10 cultural backgrounds, the grassroots alliance acts as a vital, trusted bridge between local communities and public services.
Steppingstones in the Community continue to support families, young people and vulnerable individuals
Over the past year alone, SITC has delivered remarkable, measurable safety and wellness interventions across the community, including:
Safer streets: Conducting more than 40 community safety walks and removing hundreds of hazardous items from public spaces.
Youth intervention: Supporting over 60 young people through targeted, one-to-one mentoring designed to improve wellbeing and prevent offending.
Vital aid & health outreach: Providing monthly food support to around 50 families, engaging 300 residents in cycling programmes, and delivering critical anti-vaping, stop-smoking, and men’s suicide prevention outreach.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster praised their profound local impact, stating: “Steppingstones in the Community shows the incredible difference that can be made when communities come together and take action. Their work is having a real and measurable impact.”
Highlife Centre shortlisted for empowering vulnerable residents
Also shortlisted for the Outstanding Community Group Award is The Highlife Centre, below, a trusted Coventry-based organisation celebrated for creating culturally competent spaces.
The centre provides essential community sessions, leadership training, youth development and business start-up mentoring.
Their targeted support equips people of all ages with the confidence and skills needed to escape the underlying vulnerabilities of crime, financial exclusion and exploitation.
The winners will be announced at the Outstanding Citizens’ Awards on Monday, September 28, 2026, at the Coventry Boys and Girls Club.
