01 Jul Torbay Community Champion Awards 2026

The prestigious Torbay Community Champion Awards are returning for their third year.

We have already celebrated around 300 volunteers and workers from the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise Sector, but we know there are thousands more in Torbay who deserve praise and thanks.

We are seeking volunteers and charity workers who go the extra mile to make a significant impact in their communities. Whether it is a kind neighbour, someone who tirelessly dedicates their time or a professional making a significant impact, we want to hear about them.

The Awards organised by Torbay Communities in conjunction with the Torbay Weekly are formally launched this week, with submissions invited throughout the summer across nine categories, culminating in a glittering award ceremony at Bay Church in Paignton on Friday, October 2nd.

Jim Parker, Torbay Weekly Editor and Trustee of Torbay Communities, said: “I am delighted to be involved with these awards for the third year. Our newspaper regularly recognises the efforts of the unsung heroes, who make Torbay a great place to live.

“It is always good to step back and take time to celebrate and thank those people who make this Bay so very, very special.”

Tracey Cabache, Director of Torbay Communities, said: “So much happens in the Bay that would not be possible without the efforts of volunteers and workers from the VCSE sector.

“We come across these people all the times, but never feel they get the wholehearted recognition that they deserve. We are proud to be doing our bit to change that.”

The categories for this year’s awards are:

Health and wellbeing champion

A worker in the voluntary, community or social enterprise sector committed to improving the health and well-being of people in Torbay, including those who provide support for people with additional needs or disabilities, support an organisation that advocates for those with certain illnesses or conditions, provide activities for people with disabilities or long-term illnesses, or accompanies patients to hospital.

Volunteer of the Year

A volunteer who has shown commitment, passion and care for their volunteering and made a significant difference to their volunteer cause and the community at large.

Young volunteer of the year

A young person who has shown a real commitment to volunteering and/or overcoming serious problems and made a positive difference in their own life or other people’s.  It will celebrate the work carried out by young people who give up their time to help their community; in school, at youth clubs or a voluntary organisation.

Climate and environment champion

A worker in the voluntary, community or social enterprise sector who dedicates their time to caring for their local environment, takes part in environmental protection projects, champions a sustainability programme, or takes part in any other volunteer activity that supports the environment

Volunteering team

This award is given to a group of three or more volunteers who have made a real difference to their community or an organisation.

Lifetime award

This award is for someone who has worked within their community for many years and recognises their long-standing dedication to improving the quality of life in Torbay.

Good neighbour award

A resident who strives to make sure there is a place for everyone in their local community and is devoted to helping those who live around them.

Carer of the year

Awarded to someone who improves the life of an individual or group of people through their helpfulness, compassion and support.

Emergency worker of the year

A worker in the voluntary, community or social enterprise sector who strives to keep their communities safe by providing emergency services, safety awareness and training or is involved in an activity that enhances safety or protects their communities in emergencies.

Tanny Stobart was voted our 2025 overall Community Champion by the audience, and presented the award by the 2024 overall Community Champion, Norrms McNamara

The audience at the Awards Ceremony will be asked to vote for the Overall Community Champion – A worker in the voluntary, community or social enterprise sector who has shown commitment, passion and care for their volunteering or work and made a significant difference to their cause and the community at large.

Last year, the popular overall winner was Tanny Stobart, formerly of Play Torbay, who has dedicated her life to improving the lives of young people and their families. Release

To celebrate someone you feel deserves one of our awards and the thanks of the community, go to the awards page, here on our website.