Voluntary groups across Somerset are being encouraged to apply for the King's Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), the highest honour given to local volunteer-led organisations in the UK.

The award, regarded as the equivalent of an MBE for individuals, recognises exceptional work carried out by volunteer groups to benefit their communities. The application window opened on 1 September and will remain open until 1 December.

In the most recent round, 11 Somerset groups were nominated, marking a record number for the county. These included organisations supporting a range of causes, from premature babies and older people to the arts and environmental projects. All the nominated groups shared a common principle of being led "by and for" their local communities.

Justin Sargent, Deputy Lieutenant for Somerset and local KAVS lead, said: "Across our county, often hidden from view, are hundreds of voluntary groups providing much-needed support to some of the most vulnerable people on our doorstep and creating vibrant communities which benefit all of us.

"A nomination for a King's Award for Voluntary Service is a brilliant way to recognise their efforts and increase awareness of their work."

Nominations can be made by anyone familiar with a group's work. Full guidance is available on the official KAVS website.

Exmoor Young Voices (EYV), a previous award recipient, described the impact of their recognition as significant. Chair William Lock said: "Just being nominated for this award astounded EYV. After 12 years of patient awareness raising about the issues facing young adults on Exmoor – and very little to show in terms of policy changes among the relevant authorities – to be recognised is such an energy boost.

"Since the presentation we have had amazing media coverage and a surge of enthusiasm with planning ahead for greater developments. This level of recognition is priceless in terms of our future influence in helping young people to stay living and working on Exmoor."

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EYV Young Coordinator Megan Hunt added: "Exmoor Young Voices is an organisation of young residents and workers on the moor tackling issues including housing, digital inclusion, employment, communications, travel, and local wages. The King's Award is really making their voices count."

The King's Award for Voluntary Service was established in 2002 to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee and has since continued under the reign of King Charles III.