2017 Winner
Grenfell Community
In the aftermath of the devastating tower fire, the people of Grenfell and the wider community united to offer help, support and shelter to those left bereaved and homeless
After the flames were extinguished, the people of Grenfell and their neighbours came together in a remarkable effort to provide shelter and comfort, showing the strength and power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.
People from neighbouring blocks, estates and streets, and from across London, rallied to assist residents of the tower who had lost their homes, possessions, and in some cases were still searching for loved ones.
It was a response that saw people of all ages, races and social classes come together to offer accommodation, food, water and clothes.
Shopkeepers and businesses offered their services for free, community centres and social clubs opened their doors to evacuated residents.
Many local residents also welcomed strangers into their homes. Churches, mosques and Sikh temples offered shelter to families who had been rescued from the blazing building. Volunteers rallied together to sort and distribute donations.
Boxes of fruit and vegetables were donated from local market stalls. Westway Sports Centre was transformed into a sanctuary, with donations of shoes, baby milk, nappies, soap and blankets. Donations soon spread to cover the entire tennis courts.
At the same time businesses from the nearby Notting Dale Village development brought trolleys of refreshments including sandwiches and fruit for the emergency services working at the cordons around the tower.
The Support for Grenfell Community Hub was set up to offer a range of support, counselling and advice for children, young people, parents and families affected by the Grenfell Tower Fire.
In their community’s hour of greatest need, the community came together to look after each other with love, courage and dignity.
It was a response that inspired the entire nation.
The shining community spirit that came to the fore after the Grenfell fire showed humanity at its very best. Utterly selfless, caring, resourceful and inspirational – these are the qualities at the very heart of Pride of Britain.
Pride of Britain judges