In partnership with Dorset Chamber, we’re excited to announce the Voluntary Service Awards 2025. Nominate an exceptional volunteer today to recognise their outstanding contributions to our community. NOMINATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED.
Why nominate?
Winners will receive a trophy, 2 passes to the awards ceremony and a short film highlighting their work.
Shortlisted nominees get 2 passes to the awards ceremony and a short film highlighting their work.
Award Categories
Know a fantastic volunteer or volunteer group? Nominate them for a Voluntary Service Award 2025. Nominations close at 5 pm Friday 1st November. There are 9 categories:
1. Building the Future: Individual or team with a focus on supporting children and young people
This award honours an individual or team dedicated to empowering and improving the lives of children and young people. Their efforts lay the foundation for long-term success and well-being. This award recognises their passion, hard work, and the positive change they inspire in our community.
2. Volunteer (under 25): Sponsored by BCP Early Help Partnership
Celebrate the contributions of volunteers under the age of 25. Sponsored by the BCP Early Help Partnership, it recognises their dedication and positive impact on the lives of children and young people in the community.
3. Heart of Gold
An individual who gives their heart to the community. It recognises those who go above and beyond to make a difference, showing exceptional kindness, compassion, and dedication.
4. Community Heroes Team Spirit
A team that embodies the spirit of community service. It recognises groups who work together to make a significant impact, demonstrating teamwork, dedication, and a shared commitment to improving their community.
5. Paul Payne Award for Trusteeship: Awarded by Mandy Payne
In memory of Paul Payne, a brilliant CAN Trustee, this award is for an individual who has shown outstanding dedication and expertise in trusteeship*.
*Must be registered as a trustee on the Charity Commission database.
6. Lifetime Contribution
A long-serving volunteer who dedicated over 10 years of service to their community. It celebrates their commitment and the lasting impact they have made.
7. Inclusive Volunteering
A person or team that has significantly improved equity and accessibility in volunteering. It recognises efforts to ensure that volunteering opportunities are inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of background or ability.
8. Going Green
Environmental volunteer or team who have made significant contributions to sustainability and environmental conservation. It recognises their efforts to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.
9. Doing Good is Good for Business
A local business that has gone above and beyond in serving their community. It highlights businesses that integrate social responsibility into their operations, demonstrating that doing good is also good for business.
PLEASE NOTE
Social Media Promotion
- CAN may promote winners and nominees via social media, their website, and media. Discuss this with the nominee beforehand.
Communication
- CAN will contact nominators directly.
- Nominators are responsible for sharing updates and ceremony details with their nominees.
Judging panel
The panel will include CAN staff, Dorset Chamber and awards sponsors.
Filming
We will contact shortlisted nominees for permission to film and to arrange dates and locations for filming (likely to take place in the first 2 weeks of December).
Award Ceremony – 27th March 2025
A ceremony to honour volunteers and celebrate our nominees and winners, with a showcase of short videos highlighting their voluntary efforts and community impact.
All shortlisted nominees will be invited to an evening of recognition, inspiration and community spirit at Poole Lighthouse on 27th March 2025.
With thanks to the sponsors and supporters of the Voluntary Service Awards 2025
Get Involved
Encourage your organisation and nominate your volunteers. Let’s come together to celebrate the spirit of volunteering and the people who make it all possible.
Terms and conditions
- Nominations close 5 pm Friday, 1st November 2024.
- CAN may contact anyone who provides a nomination for more information about the nominee.
- CAN reserves the right to have the final say on which nominations will be shortlisted and awarded prizes.
- Current CAN staff and volunteers are not eligible to receive awards.
Empowering Charities & Community Groups
