Nominations are now open for Wales’s premier awards scheme recognising the work of the many dedicated and inspirational individuals and groups of volunteers across the country.

There are around a million people volunteering in Wales, helping to make real changes for the better to our lives. Run by third sector umbrella organisation Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) since 2004, the Wales Volunteer of the Year Awards has six nomination categories:

Individual (age 25 and over)

young volunteer (under 25 years)

groups

‘green’ volunteer

trustee

international volunteer

Last year’s winners included a 36-year-old man from Cardiff who volunteers as a wheelchair skills trainer at national spinal injuries charity Back-Up, teaching people to be more independent after paralysis; a Pontypool teenager who has worked tirelessly to ensure young people with mental health problems get support before they reach crisis point; and a green-fingered group of local residents have spent three years transforming an area of derelict land in Mold into a beautiful wildflower corridor and flourishing hedgerow. 

Ruth Marks, WCVA Chief Executive said: ‘There is no doubt Wales is a better place thanks to these exceptional individuals who work hard for the good of their communities and make a real difference.

‘We have been running this award scheme for over a decade, and have recognised and rewarded thousands of volunteers during this time. Please use this as an opportunity to say thank you to someone you know whose volunteering has had a great impact on you, your work, or your community.’

The closing date for nominations is 15 April. Forms are available at wcva.org.uk. Hard copies are available from WCVA’s Helpdesk by calling 0800 2888 329. Alternatively follow us at facebook.com/walescva and twitter.com/walescva and search for #voty2016.