What are the National Quality Standard Awards?

The National Quality Standard Awards (previously known as the White Flag Awards), have been in operation since 2001 and are the only industry specific award for the Leisure, Health and Fitness sector in Ireland. They are the most sought-after and respected accolades in the industry and awards across the three levels of Gold, Silver, and Bronze.

Why should you apply for National Quality Standard Awards?

• Ensure the highest standards are provided in the areas of Customer Engagement, HR, Safety and Hygiene
  
• Lead by example in terms of professionalising the Leisure, Health & Fitness industry
• Enhance your reputation within the Leisure, Health & Fitness industry
• Attend a special evening awards ceremony in November to celebrate your achievements

2026 National Quality Standard Award Applications Now Open!

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a current Ireland Active member
• The facility must have been in operation for a minimum of six months
• A minimum of 50% of facility staff must be registered with REPs Ireland (for more information, email info@repsireland.ie)
• Facilities must meet 100% of the Achieved level criteria to be eligible for an award

Application Deadline: Wednesday, 1st July 2026 at 5:00 PM

All documentation must be submitted before the closing date. Applications submitted without supporting documentation will not proceed to audit.

Application Timeline:

1. NQS Workshop – New Facilities: 14th May
2. Webinar with Neil McCabe: 20th May
3. Online Applications Open: 20th May
4. Auditor Introduction – Neil McCabe: 21st May
5. Online Application Close: 1st July
6. Onsite Audits Take Place: July / August / September
7. Preliminary Result: September / October
8. Jury Meeting: October
9. Results of NQS: October
10. All Appeals Submitted: October
11. Annual Conference / NQS Awards: 6th November

How To Apply:

• Log into your Ireland Active member dashboard using your facility membership number
• Complete your application online
• Submit all required documentation via WeTransfer or Google Drive to nqs@irelandactive.ie
• Ensure that documentation folders are organised by category (Safety, Hygiene, Customer Engagement, HR)

For any login or registration issues, please contact nqs@irelandactive.ie.

Important Notes:

• Full criteria for the awards are available to download under NQS Resources once you log in
• On-site audits will be arranged after the application and documentation have been received
• A list of required documents (e.g., Safety Statement, Risk Assessments, Policies, NOPs) will be provided after the workshop

Start your application today and showcase your facility’s commitment to excellence!

2026 Ireland Active Conference & NQS Awards

Tickets Coming Out Soon!