The Waterford PPN Community & Voluntary Awards celebrate the outstanding work of community groups and voluntary organisations across Waterford City and County.
Nomination Form
Click here for Group Nomination Form
Categories
There are seven group award categories for 2026:
1. Age Friendly
This award recognises groups and organisations that have a positive impact on the lives of people aged 55 and over, helping to create a more age-friendly, inclusive, connected and supportive community.
Examples include Active Retirement groups, Men’s Sheds, social clubs, sports and activity groups, lifelong learning programmes and befriending initiatives.
2. Children & Youth
This award recognises groups and organisations that have a positive impact on the lives of children and young people.
Examples include community childcare services and facilities, youth groups, sports clubs, homework clubs and groups supporting children with additional needs or disabilities.
3. Community Safety
This award recognises organisations that enhance community safety, wellbeing and quality of life through initiatives that promote safer, more inclusive and connected communities. It also recognises work that helps to prevent violence, crime, discrimination and anti-social behaviour.
Examples include Community Alert and Neighbourhood Watch groups, victim-support services, restorative projects and initiatives supporting vulnerable people, minorities, LGBTQ+ people, young people and older people.
4. Environment, Heritage & Biodiversity
This award recognises groups and organisations that protect, improve and celebrate the environment, biodiversity and local heritage.
Examples include community clean-ups, biodiversity and wildlife projects, habitat restoration, tree planting, pollinator initiatives, community gardens, Tidy Towns groups, heritage conservation, protection of local landmarks and traditions, and environmental education.
5. Health & Wellbeing
This award recognises groups and organisations that support a healthy community by promoting physical activity, healthy lifestyles, positive environments and community connection.
Examples include walking and hiking clubs, Scouts and Guides, sports and youth clubs, indoor and outdoor activities, and physical activity programmes.
6. Inclusive Communities
This award recognises groups and organisations that strengthen and support their communities by creating welcoming, inclusive and accessible places where everyone can participate, connect and feel a sense of belonging.
Examples include community centres, community councils, local development groups, social and support initiatives, groups supporting people experiencing isolation or disadvantage, disability and accessibility initiatives, and intercultural and integration projects.
7. Spick & Span – Best Kept Residential Area
This award recognises groups and organisations working together to improve community facilities and enhance the appearance of their area. It celebrates communities that create a sense of pride and inclusion while making their area an attractive place to live.
Examples include housing estates, streets, residential areas, apartment complexes and residents’ associations.
If your group is making a positive difference—or you know a group whose work deserves recognition – we encourage you to submit a nomination.
Click this Link – Complete the 2026 Group Nomination Form
The nomination form contains further information and will help you select the category that best reflects the group’s work.
