Yorkshire Wildlife Trust Volunteer Awards 2025

Do you know someone that demonstrates the values that are at the heart of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and has really gone that extra mile for wildlife, or their fellow volunteers, or volunteer manager?

Have they been courageously tackling invasive species? Taken on more responsibility, lightening the load? Maybe they’ve earned your respect with their incredible knowledge of wildlife? Is there a volunteer who always demonstrates the integrity of the Trust while speaking with visitors or potential members? Have you been able to trust them with a sensitive task?

Please take a moment to nominate someone who you think should be among our Volunteers of the Year and why using the form below. Previous nominees and winners have been delighted by receiving the recognition for their contribution, so please submit a nomination if you think someone deserves an award.

It's important that you provide plenty of detail in your nomination explaining why you have nominated them and the difference they have made. This could be they have helped or made a difference to you personally, or the tasks they're involved in, or you have seen them supporting other people within the group. Please explain clearly why they demonstrate the value you have nominated them against.

The 2025 winners will be announced at the annual Volunteering Celebration Event on Tuesday 3rd June, Grassington.

The deadline for nominations is Monday 28th April 2025.

This list is not definitive and you may have your own ideas but we wanted to provide you with a few suggestions to get you started.

Courage

• A volunteer who has taken on demanding tasks, in challenging and/or tough conditions.
• Someone who has confidently spoken up for wildlife, perhaps engaging with the public or local decision-makers to protect important sites/species.
• A volunteer who has overcome challenges to contribute consistently to the Trust’s work.

Trust

• A dedicated volunteer who can always be relied upon to complete sensitive or complex tasks, such as handling data, leading a group, or managing equipment.
• Someone trusted to support new volunteers, ensuring high standards are met and passing on knowledge and skills.
• A volunteer who has earned the trust of the local community by engaging with individuals, partners and local groups to promote our work, inspire others to take action for wildlife and nature restoration.

Respect

• A volunteer who always treats fellow team members, staff, and visitors with kindness and professionalism, fostering a positive and inclusive environment.
• Someone who respects nature deeply, ensuring they follow best practices for wildlife conservation and inspire others to do the same.
• A volunteer who listens to others’ ideas and values different perspectives, helping to build a strong and united team.

Integrity

• A volunteer who upholds the Trust’s values, ensuring accurate information is shared with the public and acting as an ambassador for the organisation.
• Someone who leads by example, demonstrating positive and responsible behaviours in all their volunteering efforts.
• A volunteer who takes care to follow guidance, ensuring that work is done safely and with the best interests of wildlife in mind.

Responsibility

• A volunteer who has stepped up to take on additional duties, such as leading tasks, managing tools, or coordinating fellow volunteers.
• Someone who ensures health and safety standards are met, looking after both people and wildlife in their work.
• A volunteer who has taken responsibility for monitoring a site, recording data, or ensuring projects stay on track.