Gloucestershire has a thriving voluntary community with an estimated 104,000 individuals volunteering in some capacity across the county. The new Gloucestershire Volunteer Awards have been created by Go Volunteer Glos, Jo Sutherland from Charlie's Cancer Support and the Gloucestershire VCS Alliance, with Dame Janet Trotter.

It aims to shine a light on the contribution that volunteers make to Gloucestershire and recognise the contribution of volunteers across the sector, from those within smaller grassroots groups to larger organisations who make a positive impact in local communities, above and beyond

Emma Snell, manager at Go Volunteer Glos, said: "Volunteers are the backbone of communities across Gloucestershire. Their unwavering dedication and care uplift and inspire us all. We are delighted to be part of Gloucestershire's Volunteer Awards and provide a platform to honour the efforts of volunteers across the county."

Nominations for the awards are now open to the public, allowing individuals and organisations to put forward deserving candidates who have made a significant difference in their communities.

The deadline for nominations is Friday 8 March 2024.

• Rising Star Award

• Young Volunteer Award

• Good Neighbour Award

• Community Involvement Award

• Trustee of the Year Award

• Volunteering Experience Award

• Lifetime Achievement Award

• Volunteer of the Year Award

The awards ceremony is scheduled for 6 June during National Volunteer's Week to bring together volunteers, community leaders and supporters.

The event ceremony will bring an evening of inspiration, entertainment, and tributes to the remarkable individuals and groups shaping a brighter future for the people in Gloucestershire.

Emma added: "We invite everyone in Gloucestershire to join us in recognizing the extraordinary contributions of our volunteers. Their acts of kindness and service touch countless lives and create a ripple effect throughout our communities."

For more information visit Gloucestershire's Volunteer Awards and submit your nomination.