The Queens Awards for Voluntary Service (QAVS) is the highest civil award given to local volunteer groups across the UK to recognise the outstanding work carried out within local communities. It is the MBE for Volunteer groups. Expressions of interest are now being sought from voluntary groups who make a real difference to communities in Sandwell.

Does your group go beyond what is expected and have a specific benefit in the local area? If so, you could be put forward for the QAVS. Nominated organisations need to:

• be group of two or more people doing volunteering work – if the organisation also employs staff the number of volunteers must exceed the number of paid employees
• have been running for three years or more
• have provided a local service and be meeting the needs of the local community
• have significantly benefited others and able to demonstrate excellence in volunteering

At this stage we are looking for expressions of interest only by no later than Friday 5th June 2020.

Please contact Bal Dhillon Communities Partnership Project Officer for SMBC on 0121 569 5177 or email bal_dhillon@sandwell.gov.uk for further information.

If you feel that you would like the opportunity to go for this award then please read the guidance notes by clicking on the links below.

https://qavs.direct.gov.uk/
https://www.gov.uk/queens-award-for-voluntary-service

I trust this is useful and please feel free to circulate as you feel appropriate.

Stay safe!

Kindest regards

Edwin