Charity Hub: Kings Award for Voluntary Service & Funding Opportunities

Discover how to apply for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service and the benefits of securing this prestigious honour.

Join us at Charity Hub for a welcoming, relaxed, and practical in-person networking and information-sharing session, bringing together people who are passionate about making a difference in their communities.

This Charity Hub focuses on the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) — the highest award given to local volunteer groups across the UK in recognition of their outstanding contribution to their communities. The session will introduce the award, explain the application and nomination process, and explore the benefits and opportunities that recognition can bring to voluntary organisations.

We are delighted to welcome the Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, who will open the morning with an introduction to the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. As His Majesty’s representative in the county, the Lord-Lieutenant plays a key role in championing and supporting the recognition of voluntary groups. This session will explain the purpose and significance of the award, its history, and why it is regarded as the equivalent of an MBE for volunteer groups.

The event will also provide a practical introduction to how organisations can engage with the KAVS process, including eligibility criteria, the nomination process, and what assessors look for when reviewing applications. Attendees will learn how groups can demonstrate their impact, community benefit, and strong volunteer leadership when preparing a nomination.

We will also explore the benefits of applying for and receiving the award, including national recognition, increased credibility with funders and partners, improved volunteer recruitment and retention, and the opportunity to attend prestigious events such as royal garden parties. Groups that receive the award are presented with a certificate signed by His Majesty The King and a commemorative crystal, recognising their contribution to civic life and community wellbeing.

Throughout the morning there will be plenty of time to talk with peers over coffee, share experiences, and build supportive connections with others from across the charity and voluntary sector. The session will include time for questions and discussion, providing an opportunity to better understand how local organisations can take part in this nationally recognised honours programme.

Charity Hub is supported by Business Sheffield. Please note this event is specifically for charities, social enterprises and public sector organisations. Please enquire if you are unsure about booking eligibility, as unfortunately refunds cannot be given.


Agenda

- 10:00 AM — Welcome and Introduction: Rachel Fletcher
- 10:10 AM — Introduction to The Kings Awards for Voluntary Service: Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire
- 10:25 AM — Explanation of How to Apply: Hints & Tips for Success: Janet Wheatley DL


Speakers

Rachel Fletcher — Host

Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire — Speaker

Janet Wheatley DL — Speaker


Who this is for

Charities, social enterprises and public sector organisations.