Our 2026 Award Categories

Our 2026 Volunteer Awards shine a spotlight on the incredible individuals and teams who go above and beyond to make a positive difference in our communities. These awards celebrate the passion, kindness and dedication shown by volunteers, trustees, employees and community champions, recognising the powerful impact they have on the lives of others. From inspiring young people to lifelong volunteers and those working tirelessly behind the scenes, each category honours the spirit of giving that brings our communities together.

The 2026 Award categories are:

  • Lifetime Achievement Volunteer of the Year Award

This award is for someone who has volunteered within their community for many years, to recognise their long-standing dedication to volunteering.

  • Young Volunteer of the Year Award

This award recognises a young volunteer, 25 or under, who has shown outstanding commitment and enthusiasm and contributed their energy, skills and time to their role.

  • The Leslie Marks Trustee Volunteer of the Year Award

This award is for a trustee who deserves to be recognised for their constant hard work and dedication to the organisation they are involved with.

  • Supporting an Individual Volunteer of the Year Award

This award recognises someone who provides outstanding support to a local resident and has made a significant difference to their quality of life.

  • Volunteer Team of the Year Award

This award is given to a group of 3 or more volunteers who have made a real difference to either their community or organisations service users.

  • Volunteer Manager of the Year Award

This award recognises and celebrates the efforts of volunteer managers who support and facilitate the engagement of volunteers.

  • Employee / Employer Volunteer of the Year Award

For an employee or employee group from a local business who has made an outstanding contribution to the community.

  • Health Volunteer of the Year Award

For an individual who has made a meaningful contribution to health and wellbeing through voluntary work in a health - related setting.