Wigan Borough recognition for Compassion in Action with ‘Charity of the Year’ award win

Compassion in Action were named ‘Charity of the Year’ at the 2025 Wigan Borough Business Awards.

This accolade celebrates charitable organisations that show compassion, dedication and selflessness in their efforts to address social needs and improve the lives of those they serve.

The presentation took place at The Brick Community Stadium on Saturday, 27 September during a gala dinner and awards ceremony attended by 450 people from across the Borough.

“I wish to give my heartfelt thanks to Steve Critchley and all the judges for embracing our story, and for their support and belief in our vision of whole-person care,” said our Founder and CEO Pam Gilligan.

“This award is extra-special, as it is recognition from the Borough. I would also like to congratulate all the other winners and finalists on a very proud night for the local business community.”

Compassion in Action was nominated for the award by Karen Cox, Manager of Spinning Gate Shopping Centre, who was in attendance to show her support.

Also in attendance were Chief Executive of Wigan Council, Alison McKenzie-Folan OBE, and the Executive Leader, David Molyneux MBE.

“It was an amazing honour to win – a celebration for everyone at Compassion in Action – including our President, Board, staff, volunteers, patrons, ambassadors and partner organisations over the past 20 years,” added Pam, who is also a finalist in the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ category at the 2025 Wigan Business Awards.

“We are united for the most vulnerable families in our community – the people we are so proud to serve. I would also like to thank Greenmount Projects, who sponsored our category, and who were the wonderful – and deserving winners – of the overall ‘Wigan Business of the Year’ award.”

The Wigan Borough Business Awards were created by Jamie Grimshaw and Lisa McAllister of Professionals of Wigan in partnership with Sue France, Founder of Fubhub and ATTAIN. This year was particularly special for the founding team, who were celebrating 10 years of bringing the local business community together.

A full list of winners and finalists can be found here.