Ribble Valley MP Maya Ellis to celebrate ‘family-friendly’ places and people with inaugural awards
Ribble Valley MP Maya Ellis has launched her first awards to celebrate the places and people that go the extra mile to support families in her constituency.
The Family-friendly Awards will shine a spotlight on the businesses, events and individuals across Ribble Valley catering for children, young people and their families.
Maya, who is dedicated to helping families and diverse communities feel safe and empowered to live their best lives, is now inviting nominations for eight categories in the inaugural awards and hopes as many people as possible will get involved.
She has previously spoken in Parliament in support of the government’s Best Start in Life initiative, launched in 2025, which aims to make supporting families an integral part of communities.
ONS figures show there are 23,900 young people aged 0 to 19 in the Ribble Valley constituency, which also takes in parts of Preston and South Ribble. Census data shows 11,453 households in the constituency are made up of families with dependent children (those aged 18 and under and in full-time education).
Maya, who has more recently appealed for ideas for activities for young people, said the awards would reward those initiatives that go the extra mile for families, and those businesses who are adapting to the growing demand for more family activities in this area.
She said: “We all know the saying ‘it takes a village’ when it comes to raising children, but, in my constituency, it takes a valley. There are some fantastic examples of organisations and individuals providing amazing services to children, young people and their families, from days out that provide families with valuable time together, to venues catering for all ages.
“As a proud advocate for families, and mum-of-two, I know only too well the pressures families are under and the relief when you find a place or activity that makes you feel welcome.”
The awards are split into seven categories: Family-friendly Pub, Family-friendly Restaurant or Cafe, Family-friendly Member of Staff, Family-friendly Menu, Family-friendly Outdoor Activity, Family-friendly Indoor Activity, Family-friendly Event and Family-friendly Employer.
Nominations, which can be made on Maya’s website, can come from anyone living in the constituency and should say why you think your suggestion is so deserving.
The closing date for entries is March 2nd, with winners unveiled later that month.