Recognising and rewarding the dedication of volunteering stars in our City

Recognising and rewarding the dedication of volunteering stars in our City

The Southend Volunteer Awards are here!

We are excited to announce the second Southend Volunteer Awards, which will be held in the Maritime Room at the Cliffs Pavilion on October 23rd 2025. This special event recognises and acknowledges the exceptional volunteers of Southend-on-Sea, whose tireless efforts and dedication significantly enrich our city.

Southend-on-Sea is a diverse and vibrant city, with a unique tapestry of communities that contribute to its character and spirit. Our volunteers are the backbone of our city, working tirelessly to foster an inclusive, supportive, and vibrant environment that transcends cultural and social barriers.

Nominations are closed

Nominations for the Southend Volunteer Awards 2025 will open on Monday 7th July 2025. Below are the event categories that volunteers can be nominated for.

Innovation in Volunteering Award

This award honours a volunteer who has introduced innovative ideas or solutions that have significantly enhanced the effectiveness of a project or service.

Health & Wellbeing Award

This award recognises volunteers who have made significant contributions to improving health and well-being in our community and ensuring residents receive the support and care they need.

Inspirational Volunteer Award

Awarded to a volunteer who inspires others to volunteer and contribute to the community through their passion, energy, and optimism.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Awarded to a volunteer who has dedicated many years to volunteer service, demonstrating long-term commitment and perseverance.

Trustee of the Year

This award recognises a trustee who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, commitment, and positive effects on organisational governance and success.

Community Inclusion Award

This award honours a volunteer who has made a significant positive impact on fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for our diverse communities.

Environmental Champion Award

For a volunteer who has led or participated in environmental initiatives, contributing to sustainability efforts in the community.

Youth Volunteer of the Year

This award is focused on celebrating the efforts and contributions of younger volunteers (typically under 21 years old) who have shown dedication and enthusiasm in their volunteer work.

Connected Community Award

This award recognises a volunteer who stands out for building links between individuals and groups by connecting them with relevant resources, services, or other community members.

Team Award

Recognises a volunteer team who have had a significant impact on their community through their dedication and collaboration.

For this nomination, teams are defined as 3 or more volunteers who have worked collaboratively for the same organisation towards a goal, project or event.

Southend Volunteer Awards Sponsors 2024

SAVS

Host Organisation

Southend Volunteer Hub

Volunteer Facilitation

Atlantic Pacific Group

Lead Sponsor

Countrywide South East

Category Sponsor

Eagle Cargo Services

Category Sponsor

HIRECO

Category Sponsor

Ipeco

Category Sponsor

Roslin Beach Hotel

Category Sponsor

Southend City College

Category Sponsor

Unitruc

Category Sponsor

Wild in Art

Welcome Drinks Sponsor

Frequently Asked Questions

The awards are taking place on Thursday 23rd October in the Maritime Room at the Cliffs Pavilion. Nominations will be open from Monday 7th July until Friday the 8th August.

Spaces at the event are limited this year, but we hope to make the event bigger and better next year. Finalist nominees (3 from each category or maximum of 5 per nominated team in Team Award category) and the organisations they volunteer for will each receive a free ticket to attend.

You can nominate anyone that volunteers their time to good causes in Southend. Nominees can not be paid for the work they do.

Our main categories are for people aged 18+, however we do have a dedicated ‘Youth Volunteer of the Year’ category, which is for volunteers who are under the age of 18.

We are looking for local businesses and organisations to support these awards. If you are interested in sponsorship, please email us at sva@savs-southend.co.uk and we will send you some more information.

After nominations close on Friday 8th August, three finalists from each category will be selected. These people will be notified by Wednesday the 5th June. The judging panel will then select the winner from each category, who will be notified on the evening.