Nominations open for Kent Charity Awards 2026, celebrating the county’s hard-working volunteers and charities

It’s time to show Kent’s selfless volunteers how much they are appreciated by nominating them in the Kent Charity Awards.

The annual awards are back, and nominations are now open for you to give the county’s charities, trustees and individuals a shout out. You can submit your nominations here.

The awards aim to give local charities and the people who help run them the credit they deserve, as well as recognise the efforts of nationwide charities that deliver services in the county.

The 2026 awards are open for charities to nominate themselves, while volunteers and trustees can be nominated by individuals.

Susan Robinson, head judge and partner at Kreston Reeves, said: “The Kent Charity Awards showcase the incredible work the sector does in the county of Kent.

“It is an opportunity to say well done and thank you. It provides a platform for the finalists to highlight what they are doing. The judges look forward to reading the many great applications.”

The winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony in September.

Last year’s winners, Heart of Kent Hospice, based in Maidstone, said: “Winning Kent Charity of the Year felt like a warm embrace from our community. It was a powerful reminder that the care we provide and the compassion shown every day by our colleagues and volunteers truly matter.

“The award gave us a moment to pause, feel proud, and thank the many supporters who stand beside us. More than recognition, it was a shared celebration of everyone who helps make hospice care possible.”

Nominations can be submitted here until Friday, May 8. Entries will be reviewed by a panel of judges who will create a shortlist and visit each finalist to find out more about their work.

The Kent Charity Awards are sponsored by Kreston Reeves, Medway Council, CAF Bank, Financial Advice & Services, Brachers, Primech Building Services, Fallow Management, GrainLNG, Savills, Countrystyle Recycling, RP Connections, AAA Building & Civil Engineers, MS Webb, Kent Community Foundation and KentOnline.