The High Sheriff of Suffolk is urging people to thank under pressure volunteers and charities in their communities by nominating them for a prestigious selection of awards.
Times are tough for the voluntary sector in Suffolk, Geoffrey Probert is warning as he launches the High Sheriff Awards for 2018 aimed at recognising the devotion and efforts of charitable organisations in the county.
Nominations are now open for the accolades, which shine a light on volunteers, community groups and other organisations who dedicate their lives, time and energy to helping others.
New categories for this year include The Suffolk Heritage Award, created to honour those who preserve the county’s landscape, buildings and history.
Such work is a personal passion of the High Sheriff, who said on launching the awards: “I would like these awards to land as deeply as possible in the hands of grass roots charities and community groups in Suffolk which I know to be a very kind and caring place.
“Times are tough for Suffolk’s volunteers and for the voluntary sector as a whole, but a thank you goes a long way.
“Awarding exceptional people for the contribution they make to our society and shining a light on the amazing projects which they lead is vital to encourage increased levels of awareness and financial support.”
Winners will collect their gongs at a glittering ceremony presented by BBC Radio Suffolk’s Lesley Dolphin and Suffolk Community Foundation’s Tim Holder.
A trophy and cash for each winning voluntary group will be handed over at the event, due to be hosted at Wherstead Park in partnership with the East of England Co-op.
Mr Holder said: “There is pressure like never before on local charities, community groups and their volunteers who care for vulnerable people in our communities.
“I’m sorry if that does sound like an incredibly gloomy backdrop on which to stage a celebration, but celebrate we absolutely must.
“Saying thank you to this incredibly upbeat and resilient group of highly motivated and caring people is the least we are able to do.”
Entries must be in by December 15, while the deadline for nominations is January 8, 2018.
For advice on nominations, visit the Suffolk Community Foundation website.
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