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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

New Term. New Focus. The YouthVIP Youth Volunteering in Schools Resource is packed with practical support to help schools in Scotland make volunteering more accessible and meaningful for young people. Explore the resource at: www.youthvip.scot YouthLink Scotland

YouthVIP announces a new academic term focusing on youth volunteering in schools with a dedicated resource guide.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Autumn is almost here and it’s time to take action for Scotland’s wildlife. Volunteering Matters Action Earth grants of £250 are available to help volunteer-led projects in Scotland protect and restore local biodiversity through the winter. Find out more www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk/action-earth

Two people rolling up strips of sod in a community garden with residential buildings in the background.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Grandmentors is an amazing project, built on something simple but incredibly powerful: trust, consistency and human connection. It shows what can happen when someone has a consistent person in their corner. Someone who listens and is there for the journey. www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk.

Quote from a Grandmentors mentee about gaining trust, self-esteem, and confidence through Kathryn's support in Volunteering Matters. Full quote in the social post.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

This #InternationalYouthDay, we’re celebrating young people shaping the future of volunteering in Scotland and we’ve got something exciting coming! The revamped YouthVIP website officially launches next Tuesday and we can’t wait for you to see what we’ve been working on. #YouthDay

Announcement for the upcoming launch of the new YouthVIP website next week with a megaphone icon and website URL www.youthvip.scot.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

This International Youth Day, we’re celebrating young people shaping the future of volunteering in Scotland. Visit the YouthVIP website and explore our YouthVIP in Action case studies to hear their stories in their own words: www.youthvip.scot #InternationalYouthDay #YouthDay

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Today, on #InternationalYouthDay, we’re celebrating the energy, ideas and leadership of young people. Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow. They are leading change. #YouthDay #SocialAction #Volunteering

Young person writing on a large sheet covered with colorful sticky notes during a group planning session.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

What kind of country and community do you want to live in? The National Conversation is one of the biggest listening exercises in a generation, giving people across the UK the chance to share their views on the future of our communities.Find out more and take part: www.national-conversation.ox.ac.uk

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

Could you help a family thrive? We're looking for caring, compassionate volunteers to become Family Supporters in Edinburgh and Family Mentors in Southend and Greenwich. Find out more and register your interest at volunteeringmatters.org.uk/voluntee…

Six diverse adults smiling and posing happily outdoors near a large tree on a grassy area under a cloudy sky.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 23/07/2026

A special shout-out to Mike. For the past nine years, Mike has supported Flintshire Befrienders, by lending a hand whenever it has been needed. Here he is cutting the grass at Holway. It is just one example of the many ways he has helped our community. #PowerOfVolunteering

Man mowing a residential front lawn with a green electric lawn mower on a sunny day.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

Last week, we were delighted to join St Martin's Centre in Byker, Newcastle, to celebrate an incredible 20 years of supporting local people. It was inspiring to hear the centre's journey, from transforming an old church building into the vibrant community hub it is today.

Interior of a church with stained glass windows depicting Christian symbols behind a lectern with a cross.

Poster listing community partners supporting a local center, featuring logos like Barnardo's, Versus Arthritis, and Walker Taxis, with a thank you message for their ongoing support.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Our Chief Executive, Amanda Naylor OBE, reflects on the publication of the Growing Up Online report and why meaningful participation matters, especially when difficult policy decisions are made. Read the blog: volunteeringmatters.org.uk/listenin…

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

A single social media post can change someone's day. It could introduce them to a volunteering opportunity, inspire them to support a local community, or encourage them to take that first step towards making a difference. This #SocialMediaGivingDay, we're asking for a share of one of our posts.

Text reading 'A simple share can spark something extraordinary' with abstract colorful circles and outlined hands reaching upward.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 10/07/2026

This week, #iWill Ambassadors facilitated a Public Health Hack in Ipswich, bringing together 200 young people to explore public health challenges and develop ideas for change. When we create space for young people to lead, listen and collaborate, we build stronger communities together.

A diverse group of adults and teens posing together in a large room with round tables and chairs, smiling at the camera.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

We're delighted to share that Volunteering Matters will continue delivering Volunteer Centre Newcastle until 2029. Looking to volunteer or need support for your organisation? Find out more at www.volunteercentrenewcastle.org.uk.

Group of diverse volunteers engaged in a discussion around a wooden table at Volunteer Centre Newcastle.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

What a special week for Volunteering Matters. We were delighted to nominate 20 of our incredible volunteers, along with a guest each, to attend the Royal Garden Party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh. Congratulations to everyone who attended, and thank you for everything you do.

Group of seven people dressed in formal and traditional attire standing on a city sidewalk near historic stone buildings and flagpoles.

Smiling woman in a strapless light blue lace dress and black blazer draped over her shoulders, standing on a paved outdoor area with greenery and hills in the background.

A couple dressed formally stands under a black umbrella on a rainy day near a modern building with hills in the background.

Man in a dark suit and orange tie stands beside a woman wearing a pink fascinator and black shawl outside a modern building with hills in the background.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

Look at the impact Action Earth is having across Scotland. Last year, our #ActionEarth programme supported 3,609 people through 129 environmental volunteering projects. An incredible 1,559 volunteers (43%) took part for the first time, discovering new ways to connect with nature.

Group of children and adults outdoors planting a tree in a garden on a sunny day.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 23/06/2026

For many care-experienced young people, the move into adulthood can feel uncertain and isolating. In 2025/26, Grandmentors supported 339 care-experienced young people and created 169 new mentoring relationships. Find out more about Grandmentors at www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk/grandmentors

Quote from a mentee. "Having Deb as a mentor has equipped me for life. Its given me life skills, built my maturity and also given me a friend."

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

QBE volunteers spent the afternoon at Age UK Leeds Community Hub hosting an afternoon tea for older members of the community. Volunteering doesn't have to be complicated to make a difference. Sometimes, taking the time to sit down, listen and share a smile can mean the world. #CorporateVolunteering

Young woman in a floral dress attentively listens while sitting beside an elderly person in a cozy, plant-filled room.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

We're proud to celebrate two incredible volunteers who have been awarded MBEs in the King's Birthday Honours - Joe Knowles MBE and Colin Mason MBE. Congratulations to Joe and Colin on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for everything you have done and continue to do. #BirthdayHonours

Joe (right). Two men in formal attire stand together on a city street with The King's Gallery visible behind them under a cloudy sky.

Person in black shirt holding a booklet titled 'Retired Senior Volunteer Program' inside an office setting.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 12/06/2026

We're proud to be supporting Pride in Place in Ipswich, helping local people shape the future of Stoke Park & Chantry and Whitehouse. Through community engagement, we'll be supporting residents to help shape investment in their neighbourhoods. volunteeringmatters.org.uk/pride-in…

Quote: Communities should be at the centre of decisions that affect their future. Pride in Place represents a significant opportunity for local people to shape how investment is used to strengthen their neighbourhoods over the next decade.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 09/06/2026

Congratulations to Peter who has been named Fostering London Volunteer of the Year! Peter volunteers as a driver, with our Milton Keynes Driver Service, helping a young person in foster care travel to see their family each week. #PowerOfVolunteering

Two men standing beside a white car, one handing a framed certificate to the other outdoors with trees in the background.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 07/06/2026

It’s been a week of celebrating the power of volunteering – from #VolunteersWeek and #PowerOfYouthDay to #TheBigLunch and #TheBigHelpOut. As these celebrations draw to a close, our CEO, Amanda Naylor OBE, has a simple message: Thank you. #CommonGround

Quote from Amanda Naylor OBE emphasizing the importance of volunteers in creating inclusive spaces and reducing barriers, with Volunteering Matters branding.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 06/06/2026

#VolunteersWeek is always a special time for our Mentoring and Supported Volunteering (MSV) project in Dundee, Scotland. This year, we brought everyone together for a Self-Care and Regulation Workshop, with plenty of coffee, cake and convo. It was our way of saying a big thank you!

Four women standing in front of a screen displaying a 'Thank You' message with autumn leaves, in a classroom or meeting room setting.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 05/06/2026

Some of our incredible Family Supporters Edinburgh volunteers came together for a lovely lunch in Saughton Park to celebrate Volunteers’ Week and we were delighted to be joined by our trustee, Julie-Anne Jamieson. To every one of our volunteers – thank you #VolunteersWeek #TheBigLunch #TheBigHelpOut

Group of seven people sitting around a table in a modern cafe with drinks and menus on the table.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 05/06/2026

This weekend, communities across the UK are coming together for The Big Lunch and The Big Help Out, celebrating the power of connection, kindness and volunteering. Thank you to everyone giving their time, building connections and making a difference in their communities this weekend. #VolunteersWeek

Bright promotional graphic announcing The Big Weekend event from June 5-8 featuring The Big Lunch and The Big Help Out.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

As part of #VolunteersWeek, it was great to be at the Volunteer Fair in Merthyr Tydfil, meeting local people and sharing information about our Welcome Friends project. A big thank you to everyone who stopped by for a chat. We loved hearing your stories and sharing ways to get involved.

Two volunteers sitting behind a table with informational pamphlets, candy, and a lightbox sign reading 'Volunteer Matters' under a canopy tent.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

As we celebrate Volunteers' Week, we're delighted to recognise the first-ever RSVP Volunteering Award winners! These awards shine a spotlight on the incredible volunteers and projects that make such a difference in communities across the UK.

Two people shaking hands outdoors while holding an RSVP award certificate during Volunteers' Week celebration.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

Volunteering creates change in every corner of the UK and employee volunteers play an important role in making that happen. Read how employee volunteers are making a difference this #VolunteersWeek: volunteeringmatters.org.uk/voluntee…

Over 600 employee volunteers will support 20+ community groups this June with Volunteering Matters to build stronger communities.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

Yesterday, we were delighted to be at Newcastle Cathedral, together with local charities and community organisations looking for new volunteers. Could volunteering be your next step? Explore a range of opportunities on GoVo: govo.org #VolunteersWeek

Three volunteers sitting at a table with informational brochures promoting Volunteering Matters and Good Neighbours Newcastle services.

Group of colleagues standing together in an office hallway with green walls and plants, one holding a teddy bear wearing a lanyard.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

This #VolunteersWeek, we'd like to give a huge thank you to The Out of the Blue, Leith for the incredible support they've given our volunteers this year. From the kitchen to the print studio, our young volunteers have had the opportunity to develop new skills and build confidence.

Two people in a kitchen preparing ingredients, one reading a recipe while the other measures chocolate over a baking pan.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

To mark #PowerOfYouthDay, we're showcasing four stories from #YouthVIP panel members, past and present. Each shares a unique volunteering journey. Read more: www.youthvip.scot/youthvip-in-action #CommonGround

Quote from a panel member, "Fundamentally, I could not imagine my life without volunteering. It has not only changed my life but saved it too. Volunteering has been the anchor that has grounded and guided me through the waves of recent years. It has endured the significant transitions in my life, such as moving to university away from my rural town in the borders."

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

Today, on #PowerOfYouthDay, we're celebrating the power of young people to shape the future. This photo captures colleagues from Volunteering Matters alongside Molly, #iWill Co-Chair, Rosie Ferguson, CEO of UK Youth, and young people at the Brighton & Hove Hackathon. #CommonGround

Group of eight people posing in front of a banner reading 'Towns & Cities of Social Action' inside a room with white walls.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

Today is Power of Youth Day, led by the #iWill Movement. This year’s theme is Common Ground. In a world that can often feel increasingly divided, it is a reminder of what unites us. Find out more about #PowerOfYouthDay and the #CommonGround campaign at www.iwill.org.uk/common-ground

Students presenting on stage during a Power of Youth Day event framed by a colorful floral and nature-themed collage with 'Common Ground' text.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 01/06/2026

To mark #VolunteersWeek, we're celebrating the power of inclusive volunteering. Our latest blog explores how volunteers and staff across Volunteering Matters are helping build stronger, more inclusive communities every day. volunteeringmatters.org.uk/what-inc…

Group of diverse volunteers standing outside a building with a dog, highlighting inclusion in volunteering.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 01/06/2026

Today marks the start of Volunteers' Week. We want to hear from you. Share your volunteering story and tell us what volunteering means to you. #VolunteersWeek

Volunteers' Week 1-7 June 2026 poster asking, 'What does volunteering mean to you?' with colorful star outlines and volunteering logos.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 30/05/2026

With just over a week to go until The Big Lunch and The Big Help Out, now is the perfect time to start planning how you can get involved. Find free resources, ideas and local events at thebigdo.com. #TheBigLunch #TheBigHelpOut #VolunteersWeek

Colorful banner with text announcing a countdown for an event from June 5-8 inviting everyone to a weekend of friendship, food, fun, and action.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 29/05/2026

Our Volunteer Centre mascot (Volunteer Vik) is touring Newcastle ahead of #VolunteersWeek, meeting volunteers, staff and beneficiaries. From Shine On lunch club to a Mental Health Walk, Vik is helping celebrate the impact of volunteering and the people making a difference across the city.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 22/05/2026

A huge thank you to the young people who took part in #iWill youth Hack events in Caerphilly, Newcastle, Ipswich and Belfast last week, sharing ideas and experiences to help shape future policy on online safety, AI and digital wellbeing. #PowerOfYouth

Curly-haired student standing and leaning over a table, engaging with classmates seated around it in a bright classroom.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 20/05/2026

Grandmentors Perth and Kinross spent the day volunteering at Southton Smallholding near Perth, Scotland preparing 10 vegetable beds for this year’s crops. A brilliant day of teamwork, fresh air and good conversation. #Volunteering #Community

Four people working together in a garden, tending to plants under blue hoop supports on a cloudy day.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 14/05/2026

Looking to create meaningful employee volunteering opportunities for your team? We design flexible, impactful programmes that support your goals while making a real difference in communities. Get in touch. Explore what we can build together. volunteeringmatters.org.uk/employee…

Two people crouch near a blue railing beside a leafy bush in a sunny park setting with a river in the background.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 11/05/2026

Help amplify young people’s voices. We’re working with government to ensure young people shape online safety decisions. The #iWill Movement with UK Youth is running youth-led sessions and surveys to inform policy. Share: www.iwill.org.uk/growing-up-in-the-…

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 07/05/2026

We’re celebrating 10 years of support from players of #PostcodeLottery, reaching £8 million. This has helped create 137,000+ volunteer opportunities and support 435,000+ people across the UK. Thank you to players for making this impact possible.

Graphic celebrating 10 years of Postcode Lottery UK support, highlighting £8 million milestone with a quote from Amanda Naylor OBE.

"Reaching £8 million of support from players of Postcode Lottery is an incredible milestone for us. This long-term funding has given us the confidence to innovate, to test new approaches and to keep improving how we support volunteers and communities."

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 05/05/2026

Our Family Supporters Edinburgh Annual Report is here. This year we supported 50 families and built 42 mentoring relationships. Families feel more confident, less isolated and better supported. Read the report: volunteeringmatters.org.uk/family-s…

Testimonial from a family member praising Family Supporters Edinburgh for providing safety and support during a difficult time.

"As a parent, I am extremely grateful to Family Supporters Edinburgh for the
support I received. The trusting relationship I built with my volunteer helped me
feel safe, listened to, and supported during a very difficult time"

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 02/05/2026

Power of Youth Day 2026 is coming. Join us on 2 June as the #iWill Movement brings organisations together around Common Ground. A chance to show how you are embedding youth voice through the Power of Youth Charter. Find out more: www.iwill.org.uk/common-ground #PowerOfYouth

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 30/04/2026

We’ve launched our new Volunteering Matters website. It brings together our strategy, projects and focus in one place. Thank you to players of Postcode Lottery UK for supporting this work. Visit the site and explore. www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk #PostcodeLottery

Volunteering Matters announces their new website launch inviting users to explore community work.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 13/04/2026

Our befriending work in Wales is helping to combat loneliness through simple human connection. From phone calls to visits, volunteers are building trust, confidence and belonging. Small moments that make a lasting difference. Find out more: volunteeringmatters.org.uk/befriend…

Two older men sitting side by side in a room with patterned curtains, one holding a tablet and the other with hands clasped.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 08/04/2026

As delivery partner for the #iWill Movement, we're proud to support a UK consultation on growing up online. Young people’s voices matter. Take part to help shape a better digital future www.iwill.org.uk/growing-up-in-the-…

A young person presenting a large poster with a detailed mind map about social health to an audience in a classroom setting.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 01/04/2026

Action Earth 2026 grants in Scotland are now open! Got an idea to improve your local green space? Apply now www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk/action-earth #CommunityAction #Volunteering #Environment

Two people planting young trees along a moss-covered stone wall in a rural field on a cloudy day.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 31/03/2026

RSVP Volunteering Awards winners announced. Karen Boutland and Elaine Law recognised for outstanding impact, and the RSVP West GP Surgery Project celebrated for 25 years of life-changing support. Thank you to all who took part. Find out more about RSVP at www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk/RSVP

Graphic highlighting the importance of volunteers with text celebrating those who change lives and honor leadership and community impact.

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Volunteering Matters @volunteeringuk.bsky.social · 24/03/2026

We’re proud to back The Big Lunch & The Big Help Out (5–8 June 2026) 🎉 Our CEO Amanda Naylor OBE joined the launch with #iWill Ambassadors. With support from HM The King & Queen, it’s one big do to meet, eat & lend a hand. Get involved: www.thebigdo.com

Group of diverse volunteers outdoors giving thumbs up and peace signs, promoting community action with text 'What will you do?'.

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