Bernadetta Omondi, the chair of Peterborough Racial Council, has been awarded one of the Census 2021 purple plaques in recognition of her services to her local community.

At the end of last year, Census 2021 ran a competition across England and Wales to recognise 22 community heroes. From pandemic volunteers, to those who support people with mental health issues - each winner has made a big difference during a turbulent year.

Hundreds of entries were received from across both nations, and one of the 22 plaques has arrived in Peterborough to celebrate the work of Bernadetta Omondi. She has been recognised for her services to her local community, shopping and delivering food to the people who need it, but also her work to encourage cohesion and inclusion for all.

A teacher by profession, she is the chairperson of Black History Month in the city and spoke to Peterborough Matters last year about how proud she is of her efforts to educate and bring change.

Speaking about the award, Bernadetta said: "I am truly grateful to have received the Census 2021 Community Hero Award, amongst the hundreds of entries that were submitted. I am passionate and proud of my community, and it's a pleasure to do what I can and to be of service to Peterborough."

The entries were judged by a panel of noteworthy community champions, led by Gavin and Stacey actress and presenter Joanna Page. She commented: "I am honoured to have been a judge on the Census 2021 community hero awards panel. It was such a pleasure to read through all the amazing entries. In what has been a difficult year for so many of us, this was a great opportunity to say thank you to the people who go above and beyond to serve their local community."

The census, taking place on March 21, 2021, will shed light on the needs of different groups and communities, and the inequalities people are experiencing, ensuring the big decisions facing the country following the pandemic and EU exit are based on the best information possible.

Census 2021 will inform decisions nationally and locally on vital services and issues. Ultimately it ensures millions of pounds are invested in emergency services, mental health care, school places, hospital beds, houses, roads, GPs and dentists’ services - all based on the information people provide. 

It is easy for people to complete the census online on any device, with help and paper questionnaires for those that need them. Households should have now received information via the post on the upcoming census and how to complete it online.

Source: PeterboroughMatters