Published Tuesday, 7th June 2022

The Mayor of Reigate and Banstead wants residents, community groups and voluntary organisations to nominate their volunteers to receive a Volunteer Award in recognition of the valuable work they do.

Cllr Frank Kelly said: “Volunteers represent a crucial force for positive change in communities, helping to make our borough a better place to live and providing support to those who need it most. Recent years have highlighted just how essential volunteers are for so many of us, so it is important we give them the recognition they deserve.”

Volunteers can be nominated in four award categories:

  • Young Volunteer Award

For volunteers aged between 16 and 25 who have gone above and beyond the standard expectation for their age and who have used their own volunteer experience to inspire others.

  • Volunteer Award

For volunteers over the age of 25 years old who have exceeded what would normally be expected of them and demonstrated their outstanding commitment to their role.

  • Individual Trustee Award

For those in Chairperson, Treasurer or Secretary roles who have shown due diligence, good governance, and commitment for the minimum of a year, providing outstanding support, guidance, and inspiration to the organisation.

  • Volunteer Team Award

For two or more volunteers or trustees who have demonstrated great teamwork, provided support and encouragement for other volunteers, and made a significant and positive impact through working together

The closing date for nominations is Friday 1 July 2022.

The annual award scheme, now in its nineteenth year, was set up to recognise the unrewarded heroes who do a great amount of valuable work for the borough and its communities and to show appreciation for their selfless service. The scheme is organised by Reigate and Banstead Borough Council in partnership with Voluntary Action Reigate and Banstead.   

Last year, the awards ceremony was successfully held at The Harlequin Theatre & Cinema in Redhill. It proved to be the perfect venue for the awards, and we will be returning later this year for the awards ceremony.

Alisdair Semple, Trustee of Voluntary Action Reigate and Banstead, said: "As we find our way into a post-pandemic pattern of life, we are encountering a whole new world of the unexpected. At least one thing has not changed and that is the significant value given by those who serve by volunteering. This is always something worth highlighting and celebrating.”

To nominate, please visit the council’s website: www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/volunteer-awards

If you require further information, please email mayor@reigate-banstead.gov.uk. Alternatively, you can contact Voluntary Action Reigate and Banstead at info@varb.org.uk or by calling 01737 763156. 

Nominated volunteers should not be informed of their nomination. Successful nominees will be invited to a special awards ceremony in September.

Get involved with volunteering locally

As part of Volunteers' Week this week, we're promoting volunteering opportunities for those interested in lending a helping hand within their communities.

A number of opportunities are available for volunteers to help on our community development projects. If you're interested, please visit our website at: https://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/volunteering