Road Ahead NI Nominated for Prestigious IBP Pride of Place Award

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has nominated Road Ahead NI for the IPB Pride of Place Awards 2026, recognising the local charity’s outstanding work and contribution to supporting people across the community.

Road Ahead NI is a Newry-based charity providing free, specialist support to adults and children affected by road traffic collisions. Through its work, the organisation provides practical and compassionate support to those who need it, helping individuals and families through challenging circumstances while promoting wellbeing, connection and a stronger sense of community.

It is this commitment to supporting local people and making a positive difference to their lives that has led to Road Ahead NI’s nomination for this year’s IPB Pride of Place Awards. Organised by Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance, the all-island competition celebrates the vital contribution made by people and organisations across Ireland. The awards recognise groups whose dedication and commitment help make their local areas better and more supportive places to live.

On Wednesday 12 August, judges from the Pride of Place competition visited Road Ahead NI’s premises in Newry, where they were given an in-depth insight into the charity, its development and the range of services and support it provides.

The judging visit gave Road Ahead NI an opportunity to tell its story and demonstrate first-hand the impact of its work. Judges also heard about the dedication of those involved in the organisation and the important contribution its staff, volunteers and supporters make to the lives of local people.

Speaking at the judging event, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Newry DEA Forum Chairperson, Councillor Aidan Mathers said: “Road Ahead NI is a very worthy recipient of our Council’s nomination for the IPB Pride of Place Awards. The organisation has demonstrated tremendous dedication to supporting people within our community and the compassion and commitment of everyone involved was evident throughout today’s judging visit.

“Through Newry DEA Forum, the Council was delighted to nominate Road Ahead NI and provide an opportunity for the organisation to showcase its work on an all-island stage. It is organisations such as this and the people behind them, that demonstrate the strength of community spirit that exists throughout Newry, Mourne and Down.

“We wish everyone at Road Ahead NI the very best of luck as they represent our district at the Pride of Place Awards in Dublin in October.”

The IPB Pride of Place Awards Ceremony will take place on Saturday 24 October at The Convention Centre Dublin, where Road Ahead NI will represent Newry, Mourne and Down alongside other outstanding community organisations and initiatives from across the island.