The National Churches Trust Church & Community Volunteer Awards 2026 are now open for nominations.
Every day, volunteers at churches, chapels and meeting houses across the UK are doing extraordinary things. You're caring for historic buildings, welcoming visitors, supporting local communities, and creating spaces where people can connect, belong and thrive. None of this happens without dedicated and passionate local people.
Please do consider nominating your volunteers for the awards. Don't be shy about your achievements, you'll help us to showcase the incredible work happening across the UK.
The awards are given by the National Churches Trust in partnership with Marsh Charitable Trust. Volunteers from any church, chapel or meeting house can be nominated. We are keen to recognise the wide range of inspiring work taking place across the UK. It's free to enter, simply tell us about the people involved, what they do, and the impact of their work. Nominations will be reviewed by an independent expert panel. There will be four winners chosen for this award, each winner will receive £750.
Nominations will close on Tuesday 11 August 2026 at midnight, with judging by an independent expert panel taking place in September. There will be a winner from each UK nation, as well as an overall Church of the Year. Churches can easily nominate themselves for an award by going to: www.nationalchurchestrust.org/awards
Our architecture awards, in partnership with the Ecclesiastical Architects and Surveyors Association are also open. Repair, conservation or facilities projects completed in the last three years are eligible for the King of Prussia Gold Medal, the Presidents' Award or the Young Church Architect or Surveyor of the Year Award. There is more information on our website: https://www.nationalchurchestrust.org/impact/awards/architecture2026