People across Blackburn with Darwen are being urged to nominate the volunteers who go above and beyond, as this year’s Community Volunteer Awards get under way.
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The awards are a partnership between Blackburn with Darwen Council and Community CVS, and are now in their tenth year.
They recognise the hard work, passion and dedication of volunteers across the borough, with categories based on Community CVS’s six Ps: People, Prosperity, Planet, Peace, Place and Participation.
There are also nominations open for the Lifetime Achievement Award, for someone who has volunteered for 20 years or more, and the Young Person’s Award, for a volunteer aged 25 or under.
The awards are open to anyone who gives their time to volunteer in Blackburn with Darwen.
Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “Every volunteer in Blackburn with Darwen plays a part in the inspiring volunteering culture that has developed here and of which I’m so proud. Their efforts truly have a positive impact on our communities, and without them, our borough simply wouldn’t be the same.
“The Community Volunteer Awards are a chance for us to express our heartfelt thanks and recognise the incredible contribution volunteers make in supporting others and to make lives better.
“I’d really encourage everyone to take a moment to nominate someone who gives their time so generously through volunteering. It’s a wonderful way to give them the recognition they deserve.”
Nominations can be made online through the Community CVS website, where details of the categories and criteria are also available. Paper forms can be requested from Community CVS at the Community Hub on Railway Road in Blackburn.
You can also contact Donna Talbot on (01254) 583957 or email talbot@communitycvs.org.uk.
The closing date for nominations is Friday 14 August 2026.
Garth Hodkinson, Chief Executive of Community CVS, said: “Community CVS is here to promote, support and grow voluntary action. The Community Volunteer Awards, are a truly fantastic way of showcasing the amazing work of volunteers and volunteer-run groups.
“Last year was a huge success with a wide range of committed volunteers celebrated, ranging from those who help keep their community clean and tidy to those who offer their time supporting individuals, charities and organisations.
“By nominating an individual or group, you will be helping CVS to say the biggest thank you possible to the volunteers and volunteer-run groups that make Blackburn with Darwen a great place to live.”
The 2026 Community Volunteer Awards celebration will be held at King George’s Hall in Blackburn on Thursday 5 November, hosted by BBC Radio Lancashire’s Graham Liver.
