Volunteer Recognition

Celebrating Our Volunteers

Volunteers are the heartbeat of every great community. They give their time, their talents, and their energy — not because they have to, but because they want to. They see a need and step up. They turn compassion into action, reminding us all what kindness and service truly mean.

What’s remarkable is that they do all this quietly, without seeking recognition or reward. At The Ayrshire Community Trust, we believe it’s important to show our appreciation and let volunteers know just how valued they are.

One of the ways we do this is through our annual “Oscars” Celebration Event, held during Volunteers’ Week. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us and our partner organisations to come together and celebrate the incredible individuals who make such a difference in our communities.

We also recognise volunteers through two special awards:

Adult Volunteer Recognition Award – for volunteers aged 25 and over
Saltire Award – for young volunteers aged 11–25

Both awards celebrate the time, effort, and dedication that volunteers give to support community groups and charities across North Ayrshire.

You can learn more about these awards below and discover how we celebrate the amazing people who keep our communities thriving.

RESOURCES

Saltire Awards

If you are aged 11 – 25, you can gain certificates for your volunteering. The Saltire Awards is a national programme, endorsed by the Scottish Government, designed to recognise the achievements of young people who take part in volunteering. Great for your CV, and there’s no cost to you or your volunteering placement provider!

1. Saltire Challenge

Volunteer in a one-off team event to get a taste of volunteering and make a difference to your community.

2. Saltire Approach

The Approach is an introduction to regular volunteering. You can gain certificates for 10 and 25 hours of volunteering, whether it is at school, in the community or as part of a youth group.

3. Saltire Ascent

The Ascent rewards your commitment to regular volunteering. You can gain certificates for 50, 100, 200 and even 500 hours of volunteering.

4. Summit Award

The Summit Award is for an outstanding contribution to volunteering and is a nominated award.

Adult Volunteer Recognition Awards

Celebrating the incredible contributions of volunteers aged 25 and over in North Ayrshire!

Are you aged 25 or over and actively volunteering
Or are you an organisation that works with volunteers in this age group?

Recognise and celebrate the dedication, passion, and time that volunteers give to our communities through the Adult Volunteer Recognition Awards.

Award Levels:

Bronze Award (25–49 hours)
For volunteers who are new to volunteering and discovering their skills and strengths. This award recognises those who have made a positive start in supporting a project or organisation while fitting volunteering around their lifestyle.

Silver Award (50–99 hours)
For volunteers taking their commitment to the next level. This award acknowledges those who have developed their skills and experience through longer-term involvement. Volunteers can also use this to record achievements, training, and new skills to support future opportunities.
Gold Award (100–199 hours)
This award celebrates volunteers who have shown consistent dedication and significant contribution to their organisation. It highlights the experience, reliability, and commitment developed through sustained volunteering.

Platinum Award (200+ hours)
Awarded to volunteers who have dedicated 200 hours or more of their time. This represents an exceptional level of commitment and service to an organisation and the wider community.

Palladium Award (200+ hours with Outstanding Contribution)
The highest honour, the Palladium Award recognises volunteers who have gone above and beyond expectations. Like the rare and precious metal, it’s named after, this award is reserved for those who have made an extraordinary impact.

To be considered, individuals must have completed at least 200 hours and be nominated by their organisation. Final decisions are made by the Palladium Panel, and recipients receive an Outstanding Achievement Certificate.

If you require any further information or wish to register your organisation or volunteers please contact Ann Wilson by emailing: ann@tact.scot or telephoning: 01294 443044.