A NEWLY launched awards scheme will recognise the hundreds of volunteers that work among the Irish community in Britain on a daily basis.
The Irish in Britain (IIB) organisation has launched an “annual celebration” of the “unsung heroes” who support their member organisations across the country.
The awards will be presented at a ceremony due to be held at the Irish Embassy in London in June and are designed to showcase the “phenomenal work that volunteers do in the Irish community and honour up to eight individuals for their extraordinary contribution”, the organisation explains.
Brian Dalton, IIB CEO, said: “Irish in Britain is proud to launch these new annual awards.
“Volunteers provide invaluable support that enable Irish community organisations in Britain to reach out and make a difference. From lunch clubs and advice services, to cultural events and festivals, volunteers help keep the Irish community in Britain connected, engaged and healthy.”
He added: “The awards ceremony is a chance to both thank volunteers in the community for their contribution and shine a spotlight on their work. We want to give community volunteers the recognition they deserve and give something back to those who selflessly give so much.”
IIB is now calling on members is the Irish community to nominate volunteers who work with any of the organisations that belong to Irish in Britain for a Volunteer award.
Nominees can be an individual or a group of volunteers who in some way make a difference to the lives of those they support.
There are three categories for nomination: Individual, Trustee (Committee or board member) and Group (2–6 individuals who regularly volunteer together).
Up to five finalists in each category will be invited to attend a special awards ceremony at the Embassy of Ireland in London on June 4, in national Volunteers’ Week.
There they will all have a chance to meet Adrian O’Neill, Ireland’s Ambassador to Britain, hear from special guests and receive a gift for their contribution to the community.
Winners in each category will receive a commemorative trophy and a unique gift for their outstanding work.
Nominations can be submitted until April 24.
Up to five finalists will be chosen for a shortlist of candidates in each category.
Finalists will be announced May 8.
To nominate for the Volunteers Awards click here.
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