Step into the world of the Understanding Disability Awards! Hosted each year by the Cardiff and the Vale Parents Federation, these awards are a heartfelt celebration of the remarkable people and organizations making a profound difference. We recognize those whose dedication to supporting, including, and empowering people with disabilities truly goes the extra mile. Discover the inspiring stories of commitment that are driving greater accessibility, awareness, and true inclusion across our communities.
Understanding Disability Awards
A Legacy of Recognition and Inclusion
For 28 years, the Understanding Disability Awards—organised by the Cardiff and Vale Parents Federation —have shone a spotlight on the individuals, businesses, and organisations making a real difference in the lives of people with learning disabilities or difficulties.
What began as a small local initiative has grown into one of the region’s most heartwarming annual events, celebrating those who go above and beyond to promote inclusion, accessibility, and kindness. Whether it’s a dedicated teacher, a supportive employer, or a compassionate community member, these awards ensure their efforts are recognized and celebrated.
Why Do These Awards Matter?
The Understanding Disability Awards were created with a simple but powerful mission: to celebrate those who make life better for people with learning disabilities or difficulties. Unlike many awards tied to specific policies or campaigns, these recognitions are purely about people helping people—highlighting everyday heroes who might otherwise go unnoticed.
Over the years, the awards have:
- Raised awareness of the challenges faced by individuals with learning disabilities.
- Encouraged businesses and schools to adopt more inclusive practices.
- Inspired others to take action in their own communities.
Award Categories: Honouring Different Kinds of Heroes
While categories may change slightly each year, the awards typically recognise:
1. Outstanding Individual
A person who has made a significant difference—whether a parent, carer, volunteer, or community member.
2. Inclusive Employer
A business that goes out of its way to support employees with learning disabilities, offering opportunities, adaptations, and a welcoming workplace.
3. School or College of the Year
An educational institution that fosters an inclusive, supportive environment where every student can thrive.
4. Young Person Award
A child or young adult who has shown exceptional resilience, kindness, or advocacy for themselves or others.
5. Professional Excellence
A teacher, healthcare worker, or support professional who has made a lasting impact.
Past Winners: Stories That Inspire
Over nearly three decades, the awards have celebrated hundreds of remarkable people and organisations. While it’s impossible to name them all, a few winners have been:
- Waitrose & Partners – Recognised for their inclusive hiring practices and supportive workplace culture.
- JoJo Maman Bébé – Praised for their commitment to accessibility and work place culture.
- A Local Taxi Driver – Honoured for helping a young person with learning difficulties attend school regularly, going far beyond his job description.
These winners prove that inclusion doesn’t always come from big policies—sometimes, it’s the small, personal acts of kindness that change lives.
The Awards Ceremony
The Understanding Disability Awards are more than just a presentation—they’re a heartfelt community gathering. Held annually in person, the event brings together:
- The Mayors of Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan (who often attend to show their support and hand out awards).
- Families of nominees and winners, sharing pride and joy.
- Colleagues, friends, and local supporters who come to celebrate the winners.
The atmosphere is always warm and uplifting, with speeches, applause, and sometimes even a few happy tears. It’s a day where kindness takes centre stage.
How to Get Involved
1. Nominations
Each summer, nominations open to the public. Do you know someone who deserves recognition? Whether it’s:
- A teacher who changed a child’s life.
- A business that employs and supports people with learning disabilities.
- A young person who has shown incredible strength.
You can nominate them! Keep an eye on our website and social media for announcements.
2. Sponsorship Opportunities
Businesses and organisations can sponsor the awards, helping to fund the event and demonstrate their commitment to inclusion. Sponsors receive:
- Recognition at the ceremony and in promotional materials.
- The chance to align with a meaningful cause.
- Networking opportunities with community leaders.
If your business is interested, we would greatly appreciate your support!
3. Attend the Event
The awards are open to the public, so if you’d like to join in the celebration, watch for ticket announcements. It’s a wonderful way to show your support and be inspired.
2025 UDA Awards
Celebrating Excellence at the 2025 Understanding Disability Awards
The 2025 Understanding Disability Awards brought warmth, pride and heartfelt celebration to the Village Hotel Cardiff on 13th November, where communities from across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan gathered to honour those who make an extraordinary difference in the lives of people with learning disabilities.
Held annually, the event shines a light on the individuals, groups, and organisations that go above and beyond to promote inclusion, independence, dignity, and understanding. This year, we were delighted to welcome both the Lord Mayor of Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan’s Mayor, who graciously presented the awards and joined in recognising the exceptional achievements of our nominees.
The awards welcomed unpaid carers, dedicated professionals, families, and local community supporters, all united in celebrating the inspiring stories and outstanding contributions that shape a more inclusive future for people with learning disabilities.
2025 Award Winners & Highly Commended
Group or Organisation
- Winner: Key Create
- Highly Commended: Sensory Stars
Individual
- Winner: Mark Merrick
- Winner: James Savory
- Highly Commended: Rachel Cotty
Professional
- Winner: Mared Hughes
School / College
- Winner: Ysgol Y Deri
Employer
- Winner: Vision 21
Young Person
- Winner: Chapman Shum
- Winner: Miffy and Wilf
Committee Award
- Winner: John Cushen
- Winner: Shiny Happy People
Each winner and nominee has made a profound impact—whether through creativity, advocacy, compassionate care, leadership, or by inspiring others through their actions. Their stories remind us of the power of community and the importance of championing the rights and voices of people with learning disabilities.
As we look forward to another year of progress and partnership, we extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who continues to make positive change possible. The 2025 Understanding Disability Awards not only celebrated achievements—it celebrated hope, inclusion, and the belief that together we can build a society where everyone is valued.