Released on: 25 September 2026
NCT’s Newham Nurture programme has won the Community Organisation (Race, Faith or Religion) award at the 2026 National Diversity Awards, recognising its work supporting women and families facing some of the greatest barriers during pregnancy and early parenthood.
The award was announced at a ceremony in Liverpool Cathedral on 18 September, with Newham Nurture selected from more than 85,000 nominations and votes across the UK.
Delivered in partnership by NCT (National Childbirth Trust), Alternatives Trust and The Magpie Project, Newham Nurture was co-designed with women with lived experience and provides culturally responsive, trauma-informed support for families in the London Borough of Newham. Since launching in 2021, the programme has supported more than 2,000 women and babies from migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking communities.
The judges recognised Newham Nurture's commitment to ensuring the voices, cultures and experiences of families help shape more equitable maternity and early years support.
Belinda Ngugi, Newham Nurture Manager at NCT, said:
"This award belongs to the women who have shaped Newham Nurture from the very beginning. Their experiences, ideas and leadership have helped create a service that is welcoming, inclusive and responsive to the realities families face. We are incredibly proud that a programme built through co-production and community partnership has received this national recognition."
Newham is one of the UK's most diverse boroughs, with families accessing the programme speaking 47 different languages. The service offers antenatal and postnatal education, infant feeding support, peer support, family support, counselling and community activities, helping families build confidence, reduce isolation and access the support they need.
The award follows previous recognition for the programme, including the City of Sanctuary Maternity Award, and comes as Newham Nurture's approach continues to inform wider conversations about tackling inequalities in maternity and postnatal care.
Sadly, due to discontinuation of external funding, the programme is currently planning for closure in October and is no longer accepting referrals. NCT strongly believe that tailored support like Newham Nurture NCT is needed now more than ever, and hope this award win inspires continued investment in community-led and culturally responsive services.