Reflecting on success: Celebrating the winners of the Hampshire Changemakers Awards 2026 – Community Project of the Year

Looking back on the highlights of the Hampshire Changemakers Awards 2026, one resonant moment of the day was the presentation of the Community Project of the Year Award. The award winner was announced as Fair Ways, a charity who displayed commitment to the region’s most vulnerable residents. As we warm up for The Hampshire Changemakers Awards 2027, we caught up with Fair Ways to reflect on what their win meant for their mission and what the rest of 2026 holds for their community initiatives. 

Community Project of the Year award winner, Fair Ways, share their reflection: 

"Winning Community Project of the Year is incredibly special to me and to everyone at Fair Ways. It’s a real reflection of the dedication, passion, and care our teams show every day in supporting children and families. This recognition means so much because it highlights the positive impact we are making together as an organisation and with our partners. I’m extremely proud of what we’ve achieved and excited about the difference we will continue to make in the future." 

Fair Ways continued mission and community impact: 

Fair Ways is a children’s services charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and families to achieve positive outcomes and brighter futures. Through specialist education, residential care, family services and fostering, we provide safe and nurturing environments where children can grow, build resilience, and reach their full potential. Our work has a lasting impact on the community by strengthening families, supporting care-experienced young people, and creating opportunities for individuals to thrive. 

Looking ahead, what activities does Fair Ways have planned for 2026? 

We are excited to be launching the Fair Ways Phoenix Trail in Autumn 2026, a creative, family-friendly community trail forming part of the redevelopment of Hilsea Lines and Hilsea Lido. The project will celebrate the resilience and achievements of care-experienced people through a series of carved wooden installations, symbolising hope and renewal. The initiative will be youth-led, with local schools helping shape the design, and aims to raise awareness, challenge perceptions, and create a lasting positive legacy for the community. 

Visit the Fair Ways website to learn more about the fantastic work they do