Nominations are now open for the 2026 Civic Pride Volunteer Awards!

and we cannot wait to celebrate the people who make Merton such a kind and connected borough!

Each year, these awards shine a light on the volunteers who give their time, skills and care to others. From long standing community champions to young people just starting out, the stories we hear are always powerful. Last year’s ceremony was full of energy, warmth and pride. The room was buzzing, the applause was loud, and the feedback afterwards was overwhelmingly positive. Many guests told us it was one of the most uplifting nights in Merton’s calendar.

We are delighted that Chak89 will once again be sponsoring the event. Their support helps us create a welcoming, celebratory evening where volunteers feel truly valued.

All nominations are carefully reviewed by an independent panel of external stakeholders. This ensures the process is fair, transparent and based on the strength of each nomination. The panel looks at the impact made, the commitment shown and the difference the nominee has made to others.

Last year, several people asked us for advice on writing a strong nomination. Here are a few practical tips:

• Be specific about what the person or team has done
• Explain the difference their volunteering has made to individuals or the wider community
• Include examples, short stories or feedback from others where possible
• Highlight commitment, such as how long they have volunteered or how regularly they give their time
• Keep it clear and focused on impact rather than just listing tasks

You do not need to write pages and pages. A clear, heartfelt nomination with real examples is often the most powerful. 

The 2026 award categories are:

• Young Volunteer Team of the Year (25 and under): This award recognises a team of three or more young people who have taken action to make a positive difference to the community and or the lives of residents in the London Borough of Merton.
• Young Volunteer of the Year (under 25): This award celebrates an exceptional young volunteer who has made a positive difference in their community. It recognises dedication, resilience and a strong sense of responsibility, whether through regular commitment, stepping up when needed, or showing care and compassion for others.
• Young Sports/ Physical Activity Volunteer of the Year: This award recognises a young volunteer who makes a meaningful contribution to physical activity in Merton. This could include coaching, refereeing, fixtures secretary, kit cleaning, first aid, administration, helping at a yoga or exercise club, or supporting behind the scenes. 
• Volunteer Team of the Year: This award recognises a team of three or more people who have come together to create positive and lasting change in Merton. Through shared effort and collaboration, they have made a meaningful difference and shown the impact that committed teams can have when they support their community.
• Health and Wellbeing Volunteer or Team of the Year: This award recognises volunteers who support the health or wellbeing of others in the community. This could include befriending, peer support, listening services, mental health support, social connection activities, support groups, or helping people feel less isolated, more confident, or more able to cope with life’s challenges.
• Green Champion Volunteer or Team of the Year: This award recognises individuals or teams who volunteer to protect and improve the environment through local, sustainable action. This could include reducing waste, supporting community gardens, running food sharing projects, raising awareness, or creating with pre loved materials.
• Volunteer Manager of the Year: This award celebrates someone who has made a real difference through their work with volunteers. They may lead a team or support individuals, but in all cases they help volunteers feel welcomed, supported and valued. This includes recruitment, induction, training, ongoing support and recognition.
• Sports / Physical Activity Volunteer of the Year: This award recognises a volunteer who makes a meaningful contribution to physical activity in Merton. This could include coaches, team managers, kit coordinators, referees, administrators, match day helpers, or volunteers who support inclusion or participation behind the scenes. Their contribution helps residents enjoy the physical, social and wellbeing benefits of sport.
• Civic Pride Lifetime Legacy Award: This award honours individuals who have dedicated a significant part of their lives to volunteering, contributing to one or more local organisations for at least 20 years. It recognises long standing commitment and the lasting impact created through giving time, skills and care to support others year after year. This award celebrates not only the years given, but the generosity, dedication and spirit behind a lifetime of service.
• Volunteer of the Year: This award honours an outstanding volunteer whose time, care and commitment have made a lasting difference. Whether through quiet, behind the scenes support or visible leadership, they have strengthened local charitable work and helped build a more connected and compassionate borough.

Let’s come together once again to celebrate the people who make Merton brighter, kinder and stronger. The deadline for nominations is the 18th April 2025.

Make a nomination