Looking for a Volunteer of the Year 2022
The David Stapleford Award
The Red Squirrel Survival Trust looks to recognise exceptional efforts by those protecting the endangered native species.
The Red Squirrel Survival Trust (RSST) launches its annual accolade to reward those who tirelessly endeavour to ensure the future of the UK’s native red squirrel.
The RSST ‘Volunteer of the Year Award’ is specifically for volunteer groups across the UK, to nominate an individual who demonstrates outstanding dedication and effectiveness in their work to protect our endangered native species, the red squirrel.
The key factors for volunteer groups to consider when making their nomination are:
- Length of service as a volunteer.
- Personal qualities the individual brings to their volunteer role (e.g. leadership, organisation, enthusiasm, commitment).
- Any achievements or involvement in particularly noteworthy projects.
Submissions can be made by downloading this form from the website. Once downloaded, please save it to your computer using the filename VOTY2022(NOMINEE NAME).docx
The purpose of RSST is to protect the few remaining (estimate is well below 287,000) native red squirrels in the United Kingdom, and reverse the catastrophic decline in numbers. Alongside fundraising for pioneering research, RSST is actively supporting volunteer groups throughout the UK who, through their commitment to conservation efforts and population monitoring on the ground, lead in the day-to-day fight against red squirrel extinction.
Commenting on the launch of the new competition, the RSST’s Mark Henderson said:
“Volunteers continue to be the key factor in arresting the red squirrel decline and protecting the remaining colonies. Gerard McCaughen, last year’s winner, and his group in County Antrim exemplify the huge effort that volunteers contribute. Gerard also received local recognition in the form of a Mayoral reception along with an interview with BBC wildlife magazine. Volunteers and local community groups are absolutely vital to the protection and survival of this beautiful native species, with many essential developments coming out of the important work they do.
The aim of this national award is to acknowledge and thank key individuals for their commitment. We’re excited that through these nominations we will hear more about these inspiring volunteers and their achievements.”
All submissions will be assessed by a judging panel to determine the overall winner.