Citizen of the Year

The Citizen of the Year Award will recognise a truly inspirational Salford hero who has made an outstanding contribution to Salford. The award is open to anyone who lives in the city.

Our Judges have shortlisted the following finalists for 2025. You can vote below for the person you would like to win until 6 March 2025.

Pat and John O’Doherty

John, with the support of his wife, Pat, has made an important contribution to local, regional, and national initiatives to support families affected by dementia. John's involvement spans a wide range of groups and projects, such as the Dementia Providers Forum, the Dementia Champions Group, and the Dementia Action Group in Salford, as well as the Reach Beyond and Open Doors project. He has given talks, worked in advisory roles, and collaborated with various organisations, including the Salford Institute of Dementia, the University of Salford, and Manchester Airport, to improve dementia-friendly services. His efforts have also extended to national studies and political engagements, where he has shared his insights to influence policy and practice. John's contributions have had a significant impact on the Salford community and beyond.

Amir Ahmed

Amir is the development officer for the Yemeni and BAME Community Centre in Eccles, and consistently goes above and beyond to support the community by providing information, advice, and training. He plays a crucial role in promoting community safety and public health messages in Salford. Amir co-founded and co-chairs the city's Muslim Forum, advocating for women's participation and community engagement. He actively organises cultural and educational initiatives, such as the Eccles Eid-in-the-Park event and the Yemeni history and culture exhibition, while supporting educational visits to Eccles Mosque. His leadership and dedication make Salford a more inclusive and cohesive city.

Dennis Baldwin

Dennis Baldwin has made an extraordinary contribution to Salford through his innovative and compassionate work in suicide prevention and community engagement. As the driving force behind the ‘Reach Out; START to End Suicide’ campaign, he leads the UK’s largest World Suicide Prevention Day Vigil, in Salford, raising awareness, reducing stigma and providing crucial support to those affected by suicide. As a National Suicide Prevention Alliance Living Experience Influencer, Dennis has transformed his personal experience of being a multiple attempt survivor into a powerful force for good, using his story to shatter the stigma surrounding suicide and inspire others to speak out. His Living Experience work with Gaddum on Greater Manchester’s NHS Crisis & Liaison Group is revolutionising local crisis support. Dennis also founded the Surviving Suicide Peer Support Art Group, the UK’s only initiative of its kind, providing a lifeline to attempt survivors.

Ian Carberry

Ian has made a remarkable contribution to Salford, significantly enhancing people's wellbeing by fostering social connections and improving local spaces. Over the past year, Ian has started a virtual book club to combat isolation and loneliness, planted 200 trees in Weaste Cemetery, organised a clean-ups and other volunteering opportunities, and secured funding for a new roof for the Weaste and Seedley Social Club. Ian’s commitment to environmental and social initiatives has created a lasting positive impact, making Salford a cleaner, greener, and more connected place to live. Ian's hard work, passion, and care for the community truly embody the spirit of Salford.

Vote now