Impact Awards > Volunteer of the Year

Volunteer of the Year

Celebrating the volunteers who strengthen our IPS community. The Volunteer of the Year Award recognises an individual who has made an outstanding voluntary contribution to IPS.

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This award celebrates those who give their time, expertise and energy to educate, connect and inspire others in support of our vision of a world where no person is harmed by a preventable infection. It acknowledges contributions that go above and beyond formal roles to strengthen the infection prevention community.

What is this award for?

Volunteers play a vital role in supporting IPS members, delivering activities and advancing our mission. This award recognises individuals whose commitment has had a meaningful impact on members, patients and the wider profession.

Who can apply?

Any IPS volunteer can be nominated. Evidence must relate to contributions made within the 12 months prior to the application date. Nominations close 10 August 2026.

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What are the judges looking for?

Commitment and contribution

Active involvement in IPS activities.
Going above and beyond to support members.
Reliability, enthusiasm and dedication.

Supporting inclusion and engagement

Encouraging participation across diverse professional groups.
Promoting collaboration.
Supporting equitable access to opportunities and networks.

Making a meaningful impact

Improving IPC practice, education or awareness.
Supporting IPS strategic goals: Support, Improve, Engage and Impact.
Demonstrating tangible outcomes and positive feedback.

Inspiring others

Motivating colleagues to get involved.
Acting as a positive ambassador for IPS.
Encouraging a culture of learning and improvement.

IPS values

Alongside the award-specific criteria, judges will consider how nominations reflect the values at the heart of IPS and our commitment to supporting the infection prevention community. This includes evidence of how nominees:

Support and empower the workforce to deliver safe, high-quality care.
Improve evidence-based IPC practice, surveillance and outcomes.
Engage diverse communities and promote equitable access and inclusion.
Create impact through leadership, education, collaboration and policy influence.

Read the IPS Impact Awards 2026 Criteria

What evidence can I include?

Examples include testimonials, feedback, event records, reports, engagement data, presentations and examples of projects supported.

How to apply or nominate

Submit an application outlining the nominee’s voluntary contributions and the impact they have made.