The VODA VCSE Awards 2026 brought together inspiring stories of dedication, innovation and community impact from across North Tyneside’s voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.
This year’s nominations showcased the incredible difference local organisations, volunteers, trustees and young people make every day. The judging panel faced some extremely difficult decisions, with many categories proving exceptionally close.
Organisation Of The Year
Winner: Live Well With Cancer
This year’s Organisation of the Year award goes to Live Well With Cancer.
The organisation impressed judges with its holistic approach to supporting people living with and beyond cancer. Through a wide range of wellbeing, emotional support and practical services, Live Well With Cancer continues to make a significant difference to individuals and families across the region.
Winner: Live Well With Cancer
VCSE Organisation Special Recognition: Crawford Park Lawn Bowling Club
Judges also wanted to recognise the outstanding achievements of Crawford Park Lawn Bowling Club.
The club’s commitment to accessibility, inclusion and community engagement has transformed perceptions of lawn bowls while creating opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to participate.
Volunteer Of The Year
Winner: Lisa Nathan, Sarah’s Star
Lisa Nathan was named Volunteer of the Year in recognition of her creativity, dedication and unwavering commitment to supporting Sarah’s Star.
Through her volunteer efforts, Lisa has helped strengthen community connections, support fundraising activities and create welcoming spaces that make a lasting difference to beneficiaries.
Winner: Lisa Nathan, Sarah’s Star
Volunteer Special Recognition: Patrick Mayne, Northern Cancer Voices
The judges also awarded Special Recognition to Patrick Mayne from Northern Cancer Voices.
Despite facing significant personal challenges, Patrick’s strategic contribution, commitment and determination have played a vital role in supporting the organisation’s growth and impact.
Young Volunteer Of The Year
Winner: Lucy Ellis, True Colours Theatre CIO Foundation
Lucy Ellis was named Young Volunteer of the Year.
A young carer and inspirational role model, Lucy has shown exceptional commitment to supporting children and young people with additional needs. Her dedication, maturity and positive influence on others stood out strongly throughout the judging process.
Winner: Lucy Ellis, True Colours Theatre
Young Volunteers Special Recognition Awards
The judges felt that the standard of nominations in the Young Volunteer category was exceptional and wanted to recognise the contribution of every nominee.
Special Recognition Awards were therefore presented to:
- Emily McPhee, Shiremoor Adventure Playground Trust
- Emily Bell, St Paul’s Community Partnership
- Dylan Job, Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter
- Laurie Page, YMCA North Tyneside
- New Fordley Juniors Young Volunteers, New Fordley Juniors FC
Each nominee demonstrated outstanding commitment, leadership and community spirit, helping to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Trustee Of The Year
Winner: Maggie Walker, The Bay Foodbank
Trustee of the Year was awarded to Maggie Walker from The Bay Foodbank.
The judges recognised her outstanding leadership, commitment and contribution to helping shape and strengthen the organisation’s work within the community.
Winner: Maggie, The Bay Foodbank
A Remarkable Field Of Nominations
While there can only be one winner in each category, every nomination demonstrated the strength, compassion and resilience of North Tyneside’s VCSE sector.
Congratulations to all nominees, finalists and winners, and thank you for everything you do to support local people and communities.
