Community kindness shines across Durham

A North East housing provider is celebrating grassroots kindness after residents helped spotlight everyday heroes making a difference in their communities.

Newcastle-headquartered Karbon Homes has recognised seven County Durham residents and groups as part of its annual 12 Deeds of Christmas campaign, which celebrates neighbours and community champions who go above and beyond to support others.

The initiative invites nominations from Karbon residents across the region, with all 12 Community Stars for 2025 receiving a thank you card and a £100 shopping voucher in recognition of their efforts.

Among the most-nominated winners were Tracey Keers and Karen Jervis, founders of Imaginable Me CIC in Consett. 

Launched in July 2025, the creative space provides young people with a safe and supportive environment through activities such as art, music and dance, helping them build confidence and connections.

Tracey and Karen said: “We’re overwhelmed and completely blindsided. 

“We’re so new to what we’re doing. 

“We feel like we're just starting to get into it and didn’t think anyone would put us forward for an award.

“We wanted to create something that was for people who don’t feel like they fit in. 

“It’s lifting them up, celebrating them and letting them be themselves.”

Other County Durham winners included volunteers supporting older people, youth clubs, community wellbeing projects and local initiatives designed to bring residents together and improve everyday life.

Karbon Homes said the campaign highlights the strength of community spirit across the region and the vital role local people play in supporting one another year-round.

Paul Moralee, community investment manager at Karbon Homes, said: “We’ve been running the 12 deeds campaign for several years now and it’s always heartwarming to see the wonderful, selfless acts of kindness that people and groups in our communities do for one another.  

“We work with our customers to shape strong, sustainable places for our communities. 

“The 12 deeds initiative is a fantastic way to celebrate community spirit and for people to thank those who have helped to make a positive difference.”  

The full list of 2025’s 12 deeds of Christmas Community Stars were as follows: 

Kath Vaulks and Kim Teggery from Durham Alliance for Community Care – providing older people in the Pelton, County Durham, with a wide range of engaging activities, home-cooked meals, a listening ear and a safe and caring environment to spend their day. 

June Barnes from Burnhope, in County Durham – volunteering for many years for the Little Treasures charity for autistic children and Inclusive Connections Durham, supporting parents with special educational needs and disabilities. 

Tracey Keers and Karen Jervis from Imaginable Me CIC  – providing safe, inspiring spaces where young people can build confidence, make friends and be themselves. 

Edmondsley Parish Council in Chester-le-Street – the people who volunteer their time to put on activities for children and young people in the community, including summer fun days, Easter parties, Christmas parties, Halloween parties and social evenings plus days out.  

Richard Lee and Jake David for their community project South Moor Together, in Durham – the initiative brings everyone together to improve the community and foster connection, pride and a sense of safety in the village. 

The Stanley Young People’s Club Peer Mentors – a collection of young people, who help clean, organise resources within the club, run activities and volunteer in sessions and fundraisers. 

Steve Lynn for the Betsy Jenny Counselling and Wellbeing Cafe, in Sunderland – Steve started the café to be an open and welcoming door for those who might need non-judgemental wellbeing support or counselling.  

Mr and Mrs Raine from South Shields – two adult foster carers who supported their elderly neighbour who was looking after her disabled daughter, cooking food, taking them shopping and supporting them to get into an extra care facility. 

Joe Beswick from Hexham – dedicates his time to helping others, including running a youth club with his wife which provides a safe and welcoming space for local children. Joe also supports residents who are struggling with their gardens, helping to bring them up to a good standard. 

Sarah McDonald from North Tyneside – for helping get children and the community involved with different incentives and creating ideas to make the community a better place. 

Tracey Taundry from Newcastle – bringing the community together by organising coffee mornings, bingo and putting her own money into sorting days out for the local children. 

Inspiring Lives – Accept Care Ltd in Stanley – the clients and staff team produce themed window displays from recycled and foraged items that have proven extremely popular in the community. 

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