New Volunteering Quality Mark Awards Introduced in Leeds

February 16, 2026 Off By

Voluntary Action Leeds launches additional awards recognising volunteering standards

Voluntary Action Leeds (VAL) has introduced two new Volunteering Quality Mark awards to complement its existing Level 1 award. These new awards aim to provide more options for organisations to gain recognition for their volunteering programmes.

Details of the new awards

Volunteering Quality Mark Lite: This award is intended for groups and organisations that are at the beginning of their volunteering journey or operate a more informal volunteer programme.
Volunteering Quality Mark Level 2: Designed for organisations that demonstrate a high standard of volunteer management and are prepared to showcase best practice.

These awards join the existing Level 1 Volunteering Quality Mark, expanding the framework for recognising quality volunteering across Leeds.

Benefits and endorsement

Achieving any of the Volunteering Quality Mark awards serves as a formal recognition of an organisation’s commitment to quality volunteering. It may assist organisations in attracting new volunteers and strengthening funding applications. Additionally, successful organisations will have their achievements celebrated and promoted by VAL.

All Volunteering Quality Mark awards are endorsed by Leeds City Council and remain valid for three years from the date of achievement.