Release Mates wins the Stephen Lloyd Award

An intense night in the capital rounded off an incredible first year for the Release Mates team 

Stephen Lloyd

Stephen was a lawyer who excelled in advising charities and social enterprises during his working life. He is described as having been dynamic, fun, creative, and wise, with a strong commitment to good causes. 

Stephen sadly passed suddenly in 2014 during a sailing tragedy in his beloved Newport Bay. The awards were established by his colleagues and friends in his memory as a legacy of an exraordinary man. 

The process...

Applications to the awards can be made through the SLA website Written applications are sifted through before the final 20 applicants are announced. A short pitch is made to a panel of SLA members. Soon after this, the final 10 successful are applicants are named and will attend the awards finale event at the prestigious Bates Wells Solicitors offices in London. 

David Dunn and Stacey Nicholson deliver their "pitch" to the SLA partners on the awards night 

David and Stacey collect the Stephen Lloyd Award 2023 for Release Mates 

The finale event...

The Release Mates Team faced strong competition to become a winner of the award. We were in awe of our fellow finalists who's innovative ideas varied greatly. David Dunn (CEO) and Stacey Nicholson (Service Manager) delivered a one minute pitch to all the partners of the Stephen Lloyd Awards before a hooter sounded and the next finalist had their chance. Each of the award partners then visited the finalists individually for a further chat and questions to learn more of the Release Mates project. Each awards partner voted for a winner of the award and also had the opportunity to offer the pro bono support of their business services. 

As the event drew to a close, the winners were announced. David and Stacey were overwhelmed and in tears of joy at winning the award. £25,000 of funding is a huge amount for Release Mates to use to grow the organisation. Moreover, the pro bono services of recognised lawyers, impact measurement experts, media support, and the support of the entire SLA network is a priceless prize for the team. 

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