Over 21 million people volunteer in the UK at least once a year and this contributes an estimated £23.9bn to the UK economy. Behind these big numbers is a big contribution.
These 21 million people are a shining example of how we can all make a big difference to individuals and communities every day from improving the environment we live in, spending time with those who may otherwise be lonely and contributing to a range of other essential services and support. We believe such a big contribution is worth a big celebration!
Today we’re sharing the news that we will be extending the Volunteers’ Week celebrations this year and will be running the event from the 1-12 June.
‘But that’s not a week!’, I hear some of you cry. And you’re right. So, let me explain why we decided to extend the week this year.
More time to celebrate
This year there are an additional five days enabling more people than ever to take part and more time to celebrate. Since the campaign started back in 1984 people have always been creative with how they’ve celebrated and some of you have already started extending the week, Gateshead’s Volunteers’ Month being a good example.
Events are always a big part of Volunteers’ Week and last year over 750 events were posted on our Volunteers’ Week map from recruitment fairs to award ceremonies and tea parties! It was great to see lots of you making use of our new bunting to celebrate in style.
The end of Volunteers’ Week will also coincide with the Patron’s Lunch on 12 June, a celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s lifetime of service to more than 600 charities and organisations to which The Queen acts as a Patron, on the occasion of her 90th birthday. Communities across the UK will be encouraged to participate by holding their own street party or event. Why not consider including a street party to bring those together in your community.
We’re hoping to see a vibrant mix of activities and celebrations across Volunteers’ Week and replicating the celebration on the mall to demonstrate how communities can come together to celebrate those volunteers who give up their time in the service of others.
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