Charities and voluntary groups in Somerset are being encouraged to apply for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), the equivalent of an MBE for individuals.
The window for applying for KAVS – the highest award for voluntary groups – has just opened. The Royal Award recognises outstanding work by volunteer groups to benefit their local communities.
In the last round, a record 11 groups in Somerset, including Bath & North East Somerset, were nominated. The nominations, spread over the entire county, covered a range of causes from premature babies to older people, from the arts to the environment. What they all have in common is that they are led ‘by and for’ local communities.
Justin Sargent, the Deputy Lieutenant responsible for promoting KAVS in Somerset, Bath and North East Somerset, said today: “Across our county, often hidden from view, are hundreds of voluntary groups providing much-needed support to some of the most vulnerable people on our doorstep and creating vibrant communities which benefit all of us.
“A nomination for a King’s Award for Voluntary Service is a brilliant way to recognise their efforts and increase awareness of their work.”
Anyone who knows the work of a group well can make a nomination through a straightforward process between September 1st and December 1st. The KAV website (https://kavs.dcms.gov.uk/) provides clear instructions and guidelines on how to apply.
Exmoor Young Voices (EYV), who were nominated in 2024 and received their award earlier this year, say the award was a huge boost.
William Lock, Chair of Exmoor Young Voices, said: “Just being nominated for this award astounded EYV. After twelve years of patient awareness raising about the issues facing young adults on Exmoor – and very little to show in terms of policy changes among the relevant authorities – to be recognised is such an energy boost.
“Since the presentation, we have had amazing media coverage and a surge of enthusiasm with planning ahead for greater developments. This level of recognition is priceless in terms of our future influence in helping young people to stay living and working on Exmoor.”
Young Coordinator, Megan Hunt, added: ‘Exmoor Young Voices is an organisation of young residents and workers on the moor tackling issues including housing, digital inclusion, employment, communications, travel and local wages. The King’s Award is really making their voices count.’
