Volunteers’ Week, observed annually from June 1 to 7, shines a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of millions of volunteers across the United Kingdom. This week-long celebration brings together countless activities and events, recognizing the profound positive impact volunteers have on communities. Discover how you can participate, find local opportunities, and express gratitude to those who give their time.
History of Volunteers' Week
Every year, between June 1 and 7, Volunteers’ Week is celebrated. It is a week in which the U.K. honors volunteers and expresses gratitude for their contributions. The event was first organized by Volunteering England in 1984 and is now handled by NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations). Volunteers’ Week has grown significantly each year, with numerous special events and volunteer projects planned throughout the week. The manifestation of civic life has developed today as people attempt to live lives that represent their values. Doing good has many forms, and we acknowledge and celebrate them all, whether it’s online, at the office, or at the local food bank, with a vote, a voice, or a wallet.
The week also spreads awareness about the advantages of volunteering and the many volunteer opportunities available. Volunteering has a positive effect on people’s lives, helps people obtain new skills, and raises self-esteem in addition to helping others. In the U.K., numerous voluntary organizations rely on volunteers. Every Volunteers’ Week has a new focus to assist organizations in reflecting on how they may successfully expand volunteer opportunities to all and diversify their volunteer population and trustees.
Volunteers’ Week 2022 is a time to express thanks. Volunteers have played a critical part in the pandemic response. During the particularly trying couple of years, people from all backgrounds across the U.K. have volunteered and made a significant difference in their communities, as they do every year.
Volunteers' Week timeline
Volunteering has a long history in the U.K., dating back to medieval times when it was encouraged to help the poor and sick.
The term 'to volunteer' is derived from the French ‘volontaire’ and was allegedly first used in 1755 to mean 'offering oneself for military duty.'
The prime example of a global volunteer, the Peace Corps, was formed after the end of WWII.
After the pandemic, the theme of this year’s Volunteers’ Week is to say thanks.
Volunteers' Week FAQs
Volunteers' Week Activities
Find a volunteering opportunity
A large number of volunteering opportunities are waiting for the right person to step up. Begin from where you are, whenever you have the opportunity, and put your enthusiasm into action.
Build your own Volunteer Program
Arrange for some volunteer activities and encourage the people around you to take part. Ask different institutions that might need help or look for people and communities that need assistance of any sort.
Donate to a Volunteer Center
Volunteer centers and campaigns need not only human resources but also monetary assistance. Donate to such campaigns and play your part.
5 Interesting Facts About Volunteering
It's in all of us
Most individuals have officially volunteered at a certain point in life, with involvement varying over time.
The pandemic had its effect
During the pandemic, volunteer patterns shifted dramatically with almost one-fifth (17%) of the population, or 9.2 million people, saying they volunteer at least once a month.
The low-key type of volunteering
Informal volunteering, which involves unpaid assistance for anyone who is not a relative, is less conspicuous.
Most people volunteer once a year
In 2020-21, 54% of the population (29.4 million) volunteered unofficially at least once a year, with 33% (17.9 million) volunteering at least once a month.
Some volunteer in groups
In the 2020-21 year, 16.3 million people volunteered as part of a group, club, or organization.
Why We Love Volunteers' Week
It's a chance to be better together
Volunteering brings people together, strengthens communities, and improves society for all. Volunteers' Week is an opportunity for all of us to recognize and thank volunteers for their invaluable contributions.
It's an opportunity to recognize the impact
Volunteers’ Week is a chance to honor the effect of volunteering and the potential of volunteers to address society's most pressing issues and alter the world. Every year, we recognize and reward volunteers who give their time, skills, and influence to create a difference in society.
It's a time to express our gratitude
Volunteers' Week serves as a reminder to all of us to appreciate the millions of volunteers who give their time to make a difference in the lives of their neighbors and friends. A big thank you goes to everyone who contributes to making our communities a better place to live, from trustees to fundraisers, and mentors to befrienders.
Volunteers' Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | June 1–7 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2027 | June 1–7 | Tuesday–Monday |
| 2028 | June 1–7 | Thursday–Wednesday |
| 2029 | June 1–7 | Friday–Thursday |
| 2030 | June 1–7 | Saturday–Friday |
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