Published Thursday, 1st June 2023

Nominations for this year’s Reigate and Banstead Volunteer Awards are now open with calls to residents, community groups, and voluntary organisations to nominate anyone who deserves recognition.

The annual award scheme, set up twenty years ago, recognises the unrewarded heroes who do a great amount of valuable work for the borough and its community. It is also meant to show appreciation to volunteers for their selfless service.  The scheme is organised by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council in partnership with Voluntary Action Reigate and Banstead (VARB).

Cllr Eddy Humphreys, Mayor of the Borough of Reigate and Banstead said: “These awards are a testament to the immeasurable work done by volunteers in our borough. They highlight the role played by the voluntary sector, and are a tribute to those in our community, who spend time making a difference to people’s lives. These volunteers deserve our recognition.”

Awards categories

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 Chairman, 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 

Stuart Matthew, Chair of Trustees of Voluntary Action Reigate & Banstead, said: “Volunteering is more important than ever now in a world of spiralling costs and overstretched services. It is right that we celebrate those who unselfishly give of their time and energy for the benefit of the communities they serve.” 

To qualify, nominees must live and/or volunteer in the borough and not receive any remuneration for their time. The closing date for nominations is Monday 10th July 2023.

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

If you require further information, please email the Mayor's office.

Alternatively, you can contact Voluntary Action Reigate & Banstead via email or by calling 01737 763156.