Good Morning Ballymena recognised for helping older people feel less alone
Debbie Chestnut of Good Morning Ballymena receives the Social Enterprise of the Year Award from James Perry MBE of the Ballymena Business Centre.
Tuesday 27 October 2026
A Ballymena organisation helping older people overcome loneliness and isolation has been recognised for its contribution to the local community, winning the Best Social Enterprise Award at the 2026 Ballymena Business Awards.
Good Morning Ballymena received the award, sponsored by Ballymena Business Centre, at the Ballymena Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business Awards, held at Tullyglass House Hotel.
The recognition celebrates the organisation's work providing friendship, reassurance and regular human contact to older people who may otherwise experience loneliness or social isolation.
A friendly voice at the end of the phone
Good Morning Ballymena operates a free, friendly telephone service for adults aged 60 and over, offering regular conversations to those who may feel lonely, isolated or simply appreciate having someone to talk to.
For people who spend long periods alone, a familiar voice can provide companionship, reassurance and the comfort of knowing somebody cares.
The service offers a listening ear and an opportunity for conversation, helping older residents feel connected, valued and remembered.
Recognising an important community service
Ballymena Business Centre, which sponsored the award, congratulated the organisation on its achievement and praised the difference it makes to people's everyday lives.
Highlighting the importance of the service, the Business Centre said:
“Sometimes, a simple conversation can brighten someone's day and make them feel connected, valued and remembered.”
It described the award as a fitting tribute to the dedication, compassion and commitment of everyone involved in Good Morning Ballymena.
Celebrating the people behind the service
The award recognises the contribution of the Good Morning Ballymena team and their commitment to supporting older members of the community through something as straightforward, yet meaningful, as a friendly telephone conversation.
Among those pictured marking the achievement were Debbie Chestnutt BEM, Service Coordinator at Good Morning Ballymena, and James Perry MBE DL, Chairperson of Ballymena Business Centre.
Ballymena Business Centre also extended its congratulations to all finalists and winners at the 2026 Ballymena Business Awards.
For Good Morning Ballymena, the recognition highlights the value of a service built around a simple principle: that nobody should underestimate the difference a friendly voice can make to someone who feels alone.
