ABOUT THE CHARITY AWARDS

Why have the Charity Awards?

The Charity Awards recognise and celebrate excellence in the leadership and management of charities. Highlighting charities' management achievements helps to spread good practice throughout the sector, and draws attention to the talent and expertise being brought to bear on voluntary activity in the UK.

Which organisations can apply?

The Charity Awards are open to UK charities who are:
a). registered with the Charity Commission in England and Wales,
b). recognised by HMRC in Scotland or Northern Ireland or
c). an exempt or excepted charity registered with HMRC in England and Wales.

How are the Charity Awards decided?

The awards are decided by an independent panel of Judges, all highly respected for their expertise in charities and management. The panel members are drawn from a variety of backgrounds and each brings his or her own experience and views to the judging process.

The judges are looking for examples of excellence in charity management which will inspire others, and from which other organisations can learn. Among the factors considered by the panel in choosing award winners will be ten hallmarks of excellence which are described under Criteria.

How does my charity apply?

You will need to describe a management initiative which has improved the delivery of your charitable objectives. This initiative may cover

either:

1. the work of your whole organisation; or
2. the work of part of your organisation, such as a department, project or function.

The initiative you choose to describe may be an outstanding example of innovation and best practice, or a managed improvement in your organisation which may help other charities overcome similar problems. You may wish to include supporting documentation to illustrate why you think your charity should be recognised.

Entry to the Charity Awards is free and nominations are welcome from charities of any size.