Recognition for Volunteers doing extraordinary things in their local Communities.
Volunteering is the heart of community and to recognise this we are excited to be launching nominations this week for the 2026 Inspire Volunteering Awards.
This year, instead of the usual date of September, the Inspire Volunteering Awards 2026 will take place during Volunteers’ Week, aligning with the national campaign celebrating volunteers across the country. Volunteers Week is the perfect time to recognise the extraordinary individuals who give their time, energy, and passion to make a real difference in Stirlingshire.
The award categories for 2026 will celebrate the volunteering successes of individuals or teams of volunteers within charities, organisations, social enterprises, and community groups. Nominations opened on February 2nd and you can find out how to nominate, and a full list of categories here.
SVE is also delighted to announce a special addition to this year’s Inspire Volunteering Awards, the Lord Provost’s Award. This prestigious award will recognise an organisation that demonstrates outstanding commitment to supporting, valuing and developing volunteers, celebrating the vital role organisations play in creating positive, high-quality volunteering experiences and strengthening communities across the area. Selected by the Lord Provost, the award reflects civic pride in the third sector and highlights excellence in leadership, culture and volunteer support.
Natalie Masterson, Chief Officer, SVE, said
‘It’s the dedication of volunteers which keeps Stirling thriving, and the Inspire Volunteering Awards 2026 are our chance to celebrate their extraordinary contributions. From giving their time and skills to supporting local projects, these individuals make a real difference every day. We look forward to recognising their dedication and celebrating the positive impact they have across our communities.’
Natalie James, Glasgow based Host and Singer, will be the evenings MC and SVE are looking forward to hosting the Inspire Volunteering Awards at a local community venue this year, the Stirling County Rugby Club.
A couple of the Award Sponsors already signed up to support the Awards this year are the Thistles Stirling who will be sponsoring the Community Champion Awards, and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service who are sponsors of the Heart of Gold Category.
Gary Turnbull, Centre Director at Thistles, said: “Once again, we’re honoured to be sponsoring the Inspiring Volunteer Awards and playing our part to help recognise the amazing work being done across the region. It’s a fantastic evening celebrating the local charities and champions that carry out integral work within our community.”
Lee Turnock, Area Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are delighted to again sponsor an award at this years Inspire Volunteering Awards ceremony. We wish to recognise and celebrate the continued contribution and efforts of all volunteers within Stirlingshire. It is important to recognise that all our community volunteers, whether as part of group or as an individual, nominated for or indeed receiving an award, are recognised for their continued compassion, dedication and contribution to the people of Stirling.”
