Markel proud to headline sponsor the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards 2026

Celebrating everyday heroes

The awards shine a light on the remarkable efforts of small charities, not-for-profit organisations, and individuals who may not always have the chance to showcase the extraordinary impact they make every single day. Each act of care matters and deserves to be seen, valued, and celebrated.

One of 2025’s winners, the Alzheimer Café on the Isle of Wight, shared the impact of their recognition:

“Winning the award was a really warm feeling,” said Maggie Bennett. “Alzheimer Café provides education, peer support, and most of all, a great big hug and lots of smiles for people who live with dementia and their families and those who care for them. All of our volunteers are so dedicated – the work that goes on behind the scenes is just phenomenal.”

Marking 12 years of impact

Since 2014, the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards have celebrated resilience, innovation, and compassion across the sector.

In 2026, the awards return to Birmingham on Friday 17th April, bringing together organisations and individuals from across the UK for a day of celebration and reflection. A judging panel of distinguished industry figures will evaluate nominations based on their role in delivering people-first solutions to some of the sector’s toughest challenges.

Standing alongside the sector

For more than a decade, we’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with those who care, offering guidance, protection, and recognition to help them thrive, whether in a specialist educational setting, charity, or not-for-profit organisation. Supporting these awards is part of our commitment to championing the third sector, ensuring its voices are heard and its heroes celebrated.

Nominations for 2026 now open

Entries to 2026’s awards are open from Friday 5th September and close on Friday 7th November.

Anyone can enter themselves or nominate someone else in one of the categories, no matter what their position in an organisation.