Special Recognition Volunteer Award launched by West Sussex High Sheriff

The High Sheriff of West Sussex has launched a unique award to celebrate residents who have shown exceptional acts of kindness during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Special Recognition Volunteer Award is aimed at any resident in West Sussex who has acted in a voluntary capacity throughout lockdown and beyond.

Nominations can come from those who have either received or have observed a volunteer doing great things for others.

High Sheriff of West Sussex, Dr Timothy Fooks, said, “Although 2020 will always be linked to the challenges of the Covid-19 crisis, it will also be forever remembered for the great demonstration of care and support that many people have given to those around them, whether they be friend or stranger.

“Throughout West Sussex, I have met, and heard about, many volunteers who have responded to the needs of vulnerable and isolated people in remarkable ways.  They have been the beating heart at the centre of our response to this crisis and yet they have not sought any reward – they have simply wanted to help.

“This Award is designed to publicly thank those individuals who have served others and to celebrate the wonderfully positive impact that volunteering brings to every corner of our communities.”

To be eligible for the award, the following criteria needs to be met:

• the candidate must demonstrate outstanding voluntary activity in the community to support individuals or groups;
• the candidate has shown selfless acts of thoughtfulness and kindness;
• the candidate’s voluntary acts have benefited the community, particularly during the pandemic;
• the nominator must demonstrate why the care given has been so remarkable and special.

All individuals who are nominated will be acknowledged and those that are successful will receive a special certificate. 

If restrictions are lifted, they will also be invited as special guests to join the High Sheriff at a prestigious celebration event in 2021.

The closing date for the award is Wednesday 30 September.

Nominations are open now and the nomination forms will be available from hswestsussex2020@icloud.com.