DCG hosts celebration of voluntary sector as organisations step forward for prestigious King’s Award

Pictured left to right: Dr Syed iftikhar - High Sheriff of Derbyshire, Councillor Ajit Atwal - The Mayor of the City of Derby, Elizabeth Fothergill CBE - HM Lord Lieutenant, David Coleman QPM DL - Chair KAVS Assessment Panel - Andrew Cochrane DL, HM Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire and Chair of Governors at Derby College Group and Councillor Nick Adams - Chairman of Derbyshire County Council.

Derby College Group has expressed its collective pride after hosting the annual King’s Award for Voluntary Service event, bringing together over 120 representatives from charities and community groups to celebrate the strength of Derbyshire’s voluntary sector and support organisations putting themselves forward for national recognition.

The Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire was delighted to welcome the High Sheriff of Derbyshire, the Chair of Derbyshire County Council, the Mayor of the City of Derby and the Dean of Derby. Partners in attendance included Foundation Derbyshire and Community Action Derby. The Lord Lieutenant’s Cadets also supported guests from charities offering a wide range of services across the county.

The event highlighted the extraordinary contribution of local groups across Derby and Derbyshire, often described as one of the most active and generous voluntary communities in the UK, with hundreds of organisations making a difference every day. Volunteering is woven into the heart of Derbyshire, with thousands of selfless volunteers working with quiet determination to make life better for others. The event provided an important opportunity to say thank you and celebrate their achievements.

Held during a year that would have marked Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday, the event carried added significance. The King’s Award for Voluntary Service, originally established by The Queen, is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK, often regarded as the equivalent of an MBE for organisations. It recognises exceptional commitment, impact and dedication to supporting communities.

Guests heard from HM Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Mrs Elizabeth Fothergill CBE, who spoke about the importance of celebrating and recognising grassroots organisations.

Mrs Fothergill said: “I have been incredibly impressed by the passion, commitment and impact of the organisations represented here today. The strength of our communities is built on people who give their time and energy to support others, and it is vital that we recognise and celebrate that contribution.”

The event was led by David Coleman DL, Derbyshire KAVS Lead, who is supporting organisations across the county through the nomination process.

David Coleman DL said: “Derbyshire has an outstanding voluntary sector, and the King’s Award for Voluntary Service provides a unique opportunity to recognise that work at a national level. We have some very strong nominees for the 2026 awards. Importantly, advice is available to guide groups through the process and help them submit the strongest possible application.”

Attendees heard inspiring stories from the 2025 award winners Buxton Town Team, Me and Dee and Mackworth Estate Community Association, showcasing the depth, diversity and impact of voluntary work across the county.

The event also reinforced the message that organisations of all sizes should consider applying, particularly those making a meaningful difference in their local communities.

Andrew Cochrane DL, Vice Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire and Chair of Governors at Derby College Group, said: “It is always encouraging to see so many organisations coming together, sharing their experiences and supporting one another. Derbyshire has a strong culture of volunteering, and events like this help ensure that more groups receive the recognition they deserve.”

The message from the event was clear – if your organisation is making a difference, it should be recognised.

Nominations for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service are open annually, and organisations are encouraged to come forward and take advantage of the support available.

Further information can be found by clicking here.

For guidance and support with the application process, organisations can contact: kingsaward @ dcms.gov.uk

Representatives from Derby College Group outlined how the college is supporting charities and voluntary organisations by connecting them with students through work placements, apprenticeships and volunteering. This gives organisations access to enthusiastic support while helping students gain valuable real-world experience and develop skills that benefit the wider community.