Frequently Asked Questions
How do I enter?
To enter the awards you simply fill out the online application form which is now live on this site
Can I enter more than one award?
This year you can apply for a maximum of 2 categories, anymore than 2 applications will not be accepted.
How can I contact you?
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us or tweet or facebook us – we will get back to you!
Like you, the organisers of this event are all business people and we check our emails all the time – we also get the facebook and twitter notifications BUT just sometimes we are in client meetings or on the road, so please be patient, you are important and we will respond!
Is there a limit on the number of words you can use for the award applications?
The first year we put a limit on the number of words each application could have but this year there is no word count restriction. You can add whatever you think will help your application succeed. We have got a 5 supporting document limit that you can add to support your application.
When is the closing date for applications?
The closing date to apply is 5pm Tuesday 3rd April 2018.
We regret we cannot accept any applications after that date and time. The online form will be disabled on the website immediately after this expires and we cannot take any written applications. Keep an eye on the count down on the home page to see how long you have left!
Can a big business enter for the Awards?
Yes! If you are one of our larger employers, please don’t be put off or feel that you are TOO big to join in.
We have a larger variety of categories this year and so many of you are doing fantastic things for the community within Taunton Deane that simply isn’t being celebrated – come forward and let us share your achievements!
Our Head Office isn’t based in Taunton Deane - can we still enter?
The business should have its Head Office within the defined eligible area set out below. If this is not the case, the entry MUST demonstrate that the enterprise has local autonomy over business planning, marketing, HR and budget unless you are entering the Community Engagement award. If this is the case you must demonstrate how you have made a difference to the community within this boundary.
Confidentiality
Please be assured that any supporting documentation you submit to support your application will be held in strict confidence, shared only amongst the judges to allow them to make informed decisions.
How will we be judged?
Judging is undertaken by a mixed panel comprising of a selection of representatives from all the sponsors. This means that in judging all awards there is a good balance and no bias. Equally, if any judge has a personal, or close professional relationship they will be asked to declare an interest and that judge will be replaced.
Each application is marked individually with an agreed points formula, the numbers are then collated and any anomalies discussed and adjudicated. Three are then selected for shortlisting. The shortlisted candidates will then be invited in to present to at least three of the judging panel. The winner is picked after that process.