It's time to nominate your favourite charity for a share of £1 million give-away

Last year more than 1,800 North Yorkshire residents voted for more than 100 charities across the region including Dementia Forward in Ripon, York Army Museum, Saint Catherine’s Hospice Trust in Scarborough and Wellspring Therapy and Training in Harrogate

Last year saw 98,000 people around the UK support the Movement for Good awards in total, with more than 7,000 charitable causes up and down the country receiving votes. The 500 winning charities were picked at random from those nominated.

This year 500 more charities will each receive £1,000 during the first phase of the campaign, which launches today. A second phase of giving will happen later this summer.

This is a challenging time for charities, and many are struggling with the unprecedented impact of coronavirus. Members of the public are once again being encouraged to nominate a cause close to their hearts for a potential £1,000 award to help make a difference.

A representative from Wellspring Therapy and Training stated: “‘We want to say a huge thank you to our community, friends and volunteers for nominating us for this award last year. As a small charity every donation makes a direct difference to the lives of those we are trying to support. The funds were used to support young people and adults suffering from emotional distress in our community, many of whom say our support is a lifeline to them. So a HUGE thanks for the support!’”

The nomination process is open until May 24. Winners will be drawn at random and the more times a charity is nominated the more chance it has of being selected.

It’s quick and easy to nominate, you can vote for your favourite charity online at: www.movementforgood.comMark Hews, group chief executive of Ecclesiastical, said: “We’re delighted to announce the launch of Ecclesiastical’s Movement for Good awards for the second year running. The coronavirus is having a major impact on charities and many are facing financial difficulties.

"Our Movement for Good awards will continue to help charities at a time when they need it most and we know that for many charities, £1,000 can make a real difference.

"We were thrilled to receive so many nominations from the public last year and this year we are encouraging even more people to nominate a good cause. Ecclesiastical is a unique financial services group.

"We are owned by a charity which means all available profits can be given to the good causes that are so important to our customers. As a company whose purpose is to contribute to the greater good of society, charitable giving is at the heart of our business.”