Calling all community groups in Halton! Nominations are open for the 2024 King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS). This Royal Award celebrates outstanding volunteer groups who are a source of pride and inspiration within communities across the UK.

Equivalent to an MBE, it is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK.

The Awards were created in 2002 to celebrate the anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation.

Who can make a nomination?

A group cannot nominate themselves – they must be nominated by someone else. The nominator must:

  • be a member of the public with a good knowledge of the group’s work (such as a beneficiary or long-term supporter)
  • be able to supply two separate letters of support from two additional people who know the group well

The nominator can’t be a volunteer, employee or trustee of the group or in in any way involved with the running of the organisation.

Is the group eligible?

There is a basic criteria which groups need to meet in order to be eligible. This includes the group must:

  • Be made up of three or more people
  • Be in operation for at least three years before nomination
  • Have over half its volunteers eligible to reside in the UK
  • Be led by volunteers, not by paid staff; over half its members should be volunteers
  • Provide a specific and direct benefit to the local community

You can read more about the criteria here

How can I nominate?

You’ll need to register and create an account on the KAVS website. All you need is an email address to get started.

The online nomination form covers basic information such as the group’s work, its beneficiaries and the role of it volunteers. It takes around 5 to 10 minutes to complete.

You’ll need to submit two letters of support with your nomination form. These are usually from beneficiaries or independent members of the community.

Further information about how to make a nomination is available click here to find out more

Nominations must be submitted by 1 December 2024.

Further information can be found on the King’s Award for Voluntary Service website