Celebrating Derby’s community spirit at the Voluntary Sector Awards 2026

On Thursday 4 June, Derby’s charity sector came together to celebrate the individuals, groups and organisations making a difference across the city at the 2026 Derby Voluntary Sector Awards.

Hosted by Community Action Derby, in partnership with Derby Homes and with support from the Cosy Foundation, the event recognised the dedication, compassion and commitment of those who work tirelessly to support Derby’s communities and make the city a better place.

Held during national Volunteers’ Week, the event brought together people from across the voluntary and community sector to celebrate the vital and often unseen work taking place in our communities every day.

Kim Harper, CEO of Community Action Derby, said:

“Every year, we are inspired by the dedication shown by people across Derby who work tirelessly to support others. The awards give us the chance to recognise that contribution and celebrate the difference being made in communities across the city.

It was a fantastic night, and we are proud to celebrate everyone who was nominated with a personalised certificate, as well as this year’s winners.”

A total of 14 awards were presented on the night, with winners selected from 140 nominations, highlighting the wide range of activity across Derby, from grassroots community groups and charities to volunteers, youth initiatives, sports clubs and creative organisations.

Awards were presented by a range of special guests, including the Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Elizabeth Fothergill, and the High Sheriff of Derbyshire, Syed Iftikhar.

The evening was both emotional and uplifting, shining a spotlight on the individuals and organisations at the heart of Derby’s voluntary sector and highlighting the powerful impact they have on people’s lives across the city.

For more information about the event, including a full list of winners and photographs from the evening, click here