Representatives from around 35 organisations attended the event, hosted by Volunteer Centre Dorset, including Healthwatch Dorset, Citizens Advice Central Dorset, Mid Dorset Mencap, Dorset Nightstop, Home-Start, Space Youth Project, Age UK North, South and West Dorset, National Youth Advocacy Service, and many more.  

The evening recognised the outstanding dedication of volunteers of all ages who give their time to support people, places and communities across Dorset. Every nominee received a certificate in recognition of the difference they make and the positive impact their volunteering has on others.  

Volunteers were celebrated across six categories: Young Volunteer of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Decade of Dedication, the Andy Jacobs Award for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Team or Group of the Year, and a brand-new category for 2026, ‘Volunteering for All’.  

The new ‘Volunteering for All’ category was introduced to recognise organisations and individuals who help make volunteering more inclusive and accessible. The award highlights innovative approaches that remove barriers to volunteering and create opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to get involved and contribute to their communities. Nominees included Love Dogs and the Environment West Dorset, National Youth Advocacy Service Dorset, Prama, Sherborne Museum and Mid Dorset Mencap.  

The event also celebrated an extraordinary level of long-term commitment through the Decade of Dedication category. Volunteers recognised in this category had collectively contributed well over 150 years of service to their organisations, including one volunteer who has dedicated an incredible 36 years of service.  

The event was compered by Laurence Lagrue, local poet and author, who shared heartfelt thanks and stories of inspiring community spirit. In a surprise moment, Laurence himself was recognised with a special “MC of the Year” certificate, celebrating his third consecutive year hosting the Volunteer Celebration Evening and the warmth, humour and enthusiasm he brings to the occasion. 

Certificates were presented by a distinguished panel of guests including Dr Helena Conibear Deputy Lieutenant High Sheriff of Dorset, David Jenkins Deputy Lieutenant of Dorset, Cllr Matt Bell, Cllr Les Fry Mayor of Dorchester, Joe Langtree from Room to Reward and Phil Cooper Chair of Trustees at Volunteer Centre Dorset.  

“The Volunteer Awards were a fantastic celebration of the individuals and organisations whose dedication, kindness and commitment help strengthen communities across Dorset. It was an honour to present the youth awards and recognise the remarkable contribution volunteers make every day.” Said Dr Helena Conibear DL 

This year’s celebration was particularly significant as it marked the first Volunteer Celebration Evening hosted by Lynita Harris since becoming Chief Executive Officer of Volunteer Centre Dorset. 

Lynita, CEO of Volunteer Centre Dorset, said: 

“It has been a privilege to attend my first Volunteer Celebration Evening as CEO of Volunteer Centre Dorset and to hear so many inspiring stories from volunteers and organisations across Dorset. 

Volunteers play a vital role in our communities every day, supporting people, improving wellbeing, protecting the environment and helping local services thrive. This event is our opportunity to recognise and thank them for everything they do. 

I am particularly pleased that we introduced our new ‘Volunteering for All’ category this year. Making volunteering more accessible and inclusive is an important priority for Volunteer Centre Dorset as we look ahead to 2027. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to volunteer in a way that works for them, and this award celebrates the organisations that are helping make that a reality. 

The evening was a wonderful reminder of the kindness, dedication and community spirit that exists across Dorset, and we are incredibly grateful to every volunteer who gives their time to help others.” 

To find out more about volunteering opportunities or the support available through Volunteer Centre Dorset, visit www.volunteeringdorset.org.uk or call 01305 269214.

View all photos from the Volunteer Celebration Evening 2026 >>>