Luton charity crowned national 'Local Hero' at prestigious business awards

Active Luton is celebrating national recognition after being named 'Local Hero' at the SME National Business Awards 2026, just months after winning Luton Business of the Year.

The community wellbeing charity received the national award on Friday 6th November, recognising the positive difference it makes to people and communities across Luton.

The achievement follows Active Luton's success at the SME Bedfordshire Business Awards in June, hosted by Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, where it won the Luton Business of the Year award.

Active Luton delivers a wide range of services across the town, from leisure centres, swimming pools and libraries to health and wellbeing programmes, education, training and community initiatives.

As a not-for-profit charity, its focus goes far beyond providing facilities. Through its services and partnerships, Active Luton helps people improve their physical and mental wellbeing, develop new skills, build social connections and access opportunities that can make a lasting difference to their lives.

Its contribution to the town is significant. An independent social value assessment found that Active Luton generated more than £44 million in social value in 2023/24, demonstrating the wider benefits of its work for local people and communities.

Lawrence Kay, Chief Executive of Active Luton, said: "We were incredibly proud to be named Luton Business of the Year back in June, so to go on and receive national recognition as Local Hero is something really special.

"This award is about the difference our people make every day. Whether it's helping a child learn to swim, supporting someone to improve their health, creating opportunities for young people or bringing communities together, everything we do is about making a positive impact on people's lives.

"We have an amazing team of colleagues, volunteers, trustees and partners who care deeply about Luton and the people who live here. We're also proud to work alongside Luton Council and Luton Rising, whose shared commitment to the town helps us make an even greater difference. This recognition belongs to everyone who plays a part.

"Most importantly, it's a fantastic achievement for Luton. We're incredibly proud to represent our town on the national stage."

The Local Hero award celebrates organisations making a meaningful contribution to their local communities.

For Active Luton, the national win is further recognition of its commitment to supporting a healthier, happier and more connected Luton, and a proud moment for everyone involved in delivering its services.