\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Turning Tides were delighted to be announced the winners of the Community Award at the inaugural Virtual Business Awards Sussex in December 2020.<\/p>\n After an incredibly challenging year, with a near doubling in the number of individuals accessing their services due to the pandemic, the news brought a real moment of positivity, bringing 2020 to conclusion on an unexpectedly high note.<\/p>\n In a break from traditional ceremonies, the awards evening – which celebrates and recognises business achievements across Sussex – was hosted virtually, bringing together business owners, directors and teams remotely from the comfort of their sofas to network and honour each other\u2019s accomplishments.<\/p>\n The Awards are nominated and voted for exclusively by members of the public, rather than a panel of judges. The aim of the organisers, County Business Clubs and Network My Club, is to celebrate the wins and good news stories from Sussex businesses however big or small.<\/p>\n Turning Tides Chief Executive, John Holmstrom spoke after the announcement \u201cIt is always a welcome surprise to receive praise and recognition for the work that we do, but even more significantly in this instance to know that it was our community members who collectively nominated and voted for us.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCommunity is at the heart of everything we do so it is incredibly meaningful to realise those in our community felt strongly enough in support of Turning Tides to take the time to vote.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOur staff and volunteers have worked tirelessly during the Covid crisis, overcoming enormous challenges, and showing outstanding resilience. I\u2019m incredibly proud that their efforts are being honoured in this way.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHowever, it\u2019s important to remember that although restrictions are beginning to be eased across the UK, the homeless men and women we support still need our help more than ever, with an alarming number of individuals presenting as homeless as a direct result of the devastating effects of Covid-19 \u2013 our battle is far from over.\u201d<\/p>\n