Across Torbay, countless people dedicate their time, energy and passion to making the Bay a better place to live — often without seeking recognition or reward.
Now, residents are being invited to shine a spotlight on these inspiring individuals as nominations open for the Torbay Community Champion Awards 2026. The annual awards, organised by Torbay Communities in partnership with the Torbay Weekly, return for their third year to celebrate those who make a real difference across the community.
From volunteers and community groups to neighbours who go the extra mile and professionals working within the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector, the awards aim to recognise the dedication, kindness and commitment that help communities across Torbay thrive.
Torbay Communities is encouraging people to nominate someone they believe deserves special recognition — whether that is a friend, neighbour, colleague or someone whose contribution may otherwise go unnoticed.
There are nine award categories for 2026:
* **Health & Wellbeing Champion**
* **Volunteer of the Year Award**
* **Young Volunteer of the Year Award**
* **Climate & Environment Champion**
* **Volunteering Team of the Year Award**
* **Lifetime Award**
* **Good Neighbour Award**
* **Carer of the Year Award**
* **Emergency Worker of the Year**
The awards are open not only to volunteers, but to anyone working within the VCSE sector who has made an outstanding contribution to the lives of others.
The winners of each category will be celebrated at the awards ceremony on the afternoon of Friday 2 October 2026. During the event, attendees will have the chance to vote for the overall Torbay Community Champion 2026, chosen from the category winners.
Previous awards have highlighted the extraordinary work of people from across Torbay, with judges praising the dedication and impact of the many nominees who support local people, families and communities.
If you know someone who deserves to be recognised, now is the time to put their name forward.
Nominations close at midnight on Sunday 6 September 2026.
To find out more and submit a nomination, visit:
[https://www.torbaycommunities.com/torbay-community-champion-awards/](https://www.torbaycommunities.com/torbay-community-champion-awards/)
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