A national equality champion from Carlisle has been recognised for her decades-long commitment to supporting victims of abuse.
Amanda Elwen, originally from a farm in Hethersgill, was honoured with the Positive Role Model: Gender Award at the 2026 National Diversity Awards, held on September 18 in Liverpool.
A former pupil of Shankhill School and William Howard School, Ms Elwen has dedicated more than 30 years to supporting adult and child victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking, and exploitation.
Ms Elwen said: "At a time when people from marginalised groups are increasingly being encouraged to blame one another for the inequalities in our society and the cost-of-living crisis, we must look instead at where power really lies.
"We should not be turning on those who have less power, fewer resources, and less protection than we do.
"Division only weakens us. Now is the time to stand together.
"We must defend the Equality Act and the protections it provides against discrimination and exploitation.
"Our rights were hard won, and we cannot take them for granted.
"Stop blaming those with less power than you.
"Look upwards, not sideways.
"Stand together, defend equality, and refuse to be divided."
As co-founder of the Emily Davison Centre—the UK’s first hub focused on ending violence against women and girls—Ms Elwen established a partnership of 56 specialists and four charities now supporting more than 7,000 survivors each year.
She also serves as business manager at Paladin, and founded both HARV Housing and HARV Domestic Abuse Services.
She sits on the board of Women’s Aid England.
In 2021, Ms Elwen launched The Loving Me Service, the UK’s first national domestic abuse service for trans+ and non-binary people, which opened refuge accommodation in 2024.
She holds an MBA, multiple postgraduate qualifications, and an honorary fellowship from the University of Lancashire.
Amanda was selected from more than 85,000 nominees and 153 finalists across 15 categories.
The awards, now in their 15th year, celebrate individuals and organisations making a difference in equality, diversity, and inclusion.
This year’s ceremony was hosted by television presenter and author Konnie Huq at Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral.
Ms Huq said: "I’m genuinely honoured to host the National Diversity Awards on their 15th anniversary.
"Growing up in a British-Bangladeshi family, I didn’t always see people who looked like me or shared my experiences represented on screen or celebrated in wider society.
"So standing on this stage, recognising people who are breaking barriers and lifting others up, feels deeply personal.
"These awards remind us how powerful it is when every community is seen, valued, and given space to shine."
Ms Elwen was shortlisted alongside Saskhia Menendez, Naima Ali, Nick Barwick, Daniel Sukula, Christiana Naa Kwarley Hansen, Yvette Cave, Aysha Bosher, Anna Cofone, and Lucy Kate Barnes.
Paul Sesay, CEO of Inclusive Companies and founder of the National Diversity Awards, said: "The National Diversity Awards are a powerful reminder of what can happen when people refuse to stand by and instead choose to make a difference.
"Every year, we hear extraordinary stories of courage, compassion, and determination from people working tirelessly to create change in their communities and beyond.
"At a time when the conversation around diversity and inclusion can feel increasingly challenging, it is more important than ever to celebrate those who continue to speak up, challenge inequality, and open doors for others.
"These awards are about shining a light on those making a genuine difference—and reminding us that inclusion is not a trend or a tick-box exercise; it is about creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to be seen, heard, and valued."
More information is available at nationaldiversityawards.co.uk.
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