The event has moved from its home last year because of the success of it
Broadcaster India Willoughby with Rainbow Toffees Paul Hession
Broadcaster India Willoughby with Rainbow Toffees' Paul Hession(Image: India Willoughby)
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The city’s annual Rainbow Toffee Awards have been confirmed to return. Hosted by Everton FC's LGBTQ+ supporters group, the event celebrates individuals and groups making a positive impact in the local community.
This year's ceremony will be held on Friday, August 28, at BOXPARK Liverpool in the Baltic Triangle, a new venue for the awards to help come with the growing size of it.
Organisers behind it say the ceremony is a chance to share stories, celebrate achievements, and thank those who help make Liverpool the supportive, vibrant and caring city “we are proud to call home”.
It is once again being hosted by trans activist and TV personality India Willoughby. Katie Bell, a Cilla Black tribute, will provide the entertainment for the evening. Rainbow Toffees' Paul Hession, from Toxteth, told the ECHO: “The Rainbow Toffees Awards is now celebrating its fifth successful year and what an incredible journey it has been.
“Previous ceremonies have taken place in the remarkable Liverpool Central Library, one of the city’s most iconic and beautiful venues. But thanks to the continued growth and support of our community, this year we’re moving to an even bigger stage at BoxPark Liverpool.
Manager Leah Evans from the Queens Arms pub
Manager Leah Evans from the Queens Arms pub is among this year's award winners(Image: Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo)
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“What makes our awards different is simple kindness isn’t a competition. Unlike many awards ceremonies where winners find out on the night, our award recipients are informed in advance. We believe recognition should be about celebrating people, not creating suspense.
“These awards were never created to make money. Too often, people are expected to pay extortionate prices just to attend events that celebrate good deeds and community spirit.
"We believe acts of kindness, inclusion and support deserve recognition without a huge price tag attached.
“We’re delighted that our patron, India Willoughby, will once again be hosting the evening, helping us celebrate the amazing people who make a difference in our communities. And the entertainment doesn’t stop there, we’ll also be welcoming the fabulous Katie Bell with a special Cilla Black tribute performance.
Everton FC's LGBTQ+ supporters group Rainbow Toffees
Everton FC's LGBTQ+ supporters group Rainbow Toffees(Image: Paul Hession)
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“There’ll also be a charity raffle on the night, helping raise funds for our Mental Health Days Out Initiative, creating opportunities for people to connect, socialise and support wellbeing together. Tickets for the event can be bought here.
One such winner is The Queens Arms, a neighbourhood pub on Admiral Street. The team behind it previously told the ECHO they were “overwhelmed” to be honoured with an award.
Becky Evans told the ECHO: “It might not mean a lot to some people, but to us this is an amazing award. It's not just for me, (co-owner) Leah and the team at The Queens, but also for all of our regulars and customers, both old and new, who come in day after day to support their local pub and make it what it is today.
"We get all walks of life in this pub, and nobody bats an eye. So, once again, thank you to every one of you for making everyone feel welcome, no matter what. We couldn't have done it without you all.”
Rainbow Toffee’s 2026 full list of winners
LGBTQ+ Friendly Business Award - The Bakery
LGBTQ+ Friendly Pub Award - The Queens Arms
Inspirational Person Award - Miguel Doforo
Care in the Community Award - Pips Sandwich and Sweet Shop
Sharing is Caring Award - Perfect Platter
Cornerstone Award - Bridge Community Centre
Legend Award - Pete Price
Making A Difference Award - Mersey Mind Project
Community Heart Award - The Hope Centre and Stephen Yip
Podcast Award - Good Times
Blue Backbone Award - Paul Kelly
Community Champion Award - Angela Grace Cringle
Heart of Gold - Emma Williams
Power of Positivity - Ian Mules
Ally Award - Simon McIntyre