Published Friday 24 January 2025 at 15:41
Blackburn with Darwen is set to honour the achievements of inspirational women across the borough in the lead-up to International Women’s Day 2025.
This year marks a particularly significant milestone, as it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the election of Barbara Castle, one of Blackburn’s most pioneering figures.
The tagline for this year’s celebration is “Be More Barbara”, encouraging everyone to aspire to success, innovation, and achievement.
To celebrate this legacy, the community will create a Role of Honour, recognising outstanding women from all walks of life, such as Public Life and Service, A Good Neighbour, Emergency Services, Business and Innovation, Entertainment, Sport, Charity and Community, and Future Stars.
The highlight of the celebration will be the presentation of the Barbara Castle Woman of the Year Award, honouring one exceptional woman who embodies Barbara Castle’s legacy of leadership, innovation, and determination.
How it works
- Anyone is invited to nominate women who inspire them from the borough by submitting a photo and a short description (150 words) explaining their achievements.
- Nominations will be shared across social media and other platforms, with one category showcased each day during the week leading up to International Women’s Day on Saturday, March 8, 2025.
Cllr Elaine Whittingham, who has been championing International Women’s Day, said:
This year’s International Women’s Day is a chance to reflect on the incredible contributions of women in our borough, past and present, of which there are so many!
Barbara Castle paved the way for many of us, and this celebration will honour her legacy by recognising the inspirational women who make a difference in our community every day. I encourage everyone to nominate a woman who inspires them and join us in celebrating their achievements.
Barbara Castle, elected MP for Blackburn in 1945, was a trailblazer in British politics.
She was one of the longest-serving female MPs in history and held several cabinet roles, including Minister of Transport, where she introduced the national speed limit, seatbelt laws, and breathalyser tests.
Her work as Secretary of State for Employment led to the groundbreaking Equal Pay Act of 1970. Today, her legacy is immortalised in Blackburn with the Barbara Castle statue in Blackburn, which is temporarily located at Cathedral Square, Barbara Castle Way, and the Barbara Castle Way Health Centre.
Denise Park, Chief Executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council and the first female Chief Executive of the authority, said:
Barbara Castle’s legacy continues to inspire us all, and as the first female Chief Executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council, I feel deeply honoured to follow in her footsteps of breaking barriers.
The Barbara Castle Woman of the Year Award is a fitting tribute to her trailblazing work and the incredible women who make a difference in our borough.
From the Barbara Castle statue in Blackburn Town Centre to the health centre and road that bear her name, her influence is deep-rooted here, and this will ensure her spirit lives on in the achievements of today’s women.
To nominate, complete this form.
You can join the conversation online using #BeMoreBarbara
Inspirational Women’s Day Role of Honour: Nomination criteria
Public Life and Service
Recognising women who have dedicated themselves to serving the public through roles in government, healthcare, education, or other public services. Nominees should demonstrate exceptional leadership, commitment, and a significant positive impact on the lives of others.
A Good Neighbour
Honouring women who have gone above and beyond to support their neighbours and foster a sense of community. Whether through acts of kindness, offering support in times of need, or creating a stronger, more connected neighbourhood, nominees should embody the spirit of community.
Emergency Services
Celebrating women working in emergency services – such as police, fire, ambulance, or other frontline roles – who have shown bravery, dedication, and compassion. Nominees should have made a difference in protecting and serving their communities.
Business and Innovation
Recognising women who have excelled in business or demonstrated innovation and entrepreneurship. Nominees should showcase creativity, resilience, and leadership, driving success or creating meaningful change within their industry or community.
Entertainment
Honouring women who have made significant contributions to arts, culture, or entertainment. Whether as performers, creators, or behind-the-scenes contributors, nominees should inspire others through their talent, passion, and creativity.
Sport
Celebrating women who have achieved excellence in sport, whether as athletes, coaches, or advocates for physical activity. Nominees should demonstrate determination, perseverance, and the ability to inspire others through their sporting achievements.
Charity and Community
Recognising women who have dedicated their time, energy, and resources to charitable causes or community initiatives. Nominees should have a proven track record of making a meaningful difference and improving the lives of others.
Future Stars
Celebrating women who are already making a significant impact in their field, community, or chosen path. Nominees should demonstrate outstanding potential, ambition, and the ability to inspire others through their actions and achievements.
Nominate a woman who inspires you and help us shine a light on their incredible contributions. Make their day and let’s celebrate the achievements of women who make a difference every day!
The closing date for nominations is Friday, February 28, 2025.
Filed under : Barbra Castle | International Women's Day