Hundreds of thousands of volunteering opportunities hosted by over 1,500 charities have today been made available via the Big Help Out app. With just 50 days to go to the Big Help Out on the Bank Holiday Monday of the Coronation (May 8), the new app goes live today.
Members of the public are being encouraged to take part in volunteering on the day in their community - or to sign up for future opportunities via the app. People can search by their postcode, the type of activity they want to do and the organisation they would like to volunteer with. Hundreds of thousands more activities are expected to be added before the day.
The Big Help Out is a formal part of the Coronation celebrations, is supported by the Together Coalition and was devised by Britain’s leading charities - including household names like The Scouts, Royal Voluntary Service, Guide Dogs and thousands of smaller local groups.
Organisers hope for an unprecedented community mobilisation – not only to mark an event of national significance and underscore the central role volunteering plays in our national story, but to inspire a new generation of volunteers.
Launching The Big Help Out, Ellie Simmonds, volunteer and Scout Ambassador, said: "Volunteering is central to our national story - from families taking in refugees from Ukraine to volunteers running Scout groups and even just people looking in on a neighbour when times are tough. So it’s brilliant to see The Big Help Out – a festival of volunteering - is an official part of the Coronation celebrations.
“Today, we’re launching the Big Help Out app – it’s your one-stop shop for 100,000s of volunteering opportunities across the country. It’s all in one place, and easy to search to suit you – your interests, organisations you want to support in your local area.”
Deborah Meaden from Dragons Den, said: "I know a good idea when I see it. And the Big Help Out is one. That’s why everyone is joining in. Charities, businesses and now the public can get involved too.
"Volunteers make a huge difference to other people’s lives but it’s easy to forget that volunteering is great for you too. Take a second to download the app and see if there’s a way you can get involved.”
Faye Winter, Love Island competitor, who is a volunteer with Guide Dogs, said: "It’s so rewarding being a Fosterer for Guide Dogs and knowing that you’re helping each dog on their journey to support someone living with sight loss. It’s a fantastic cause and I would recommend volunteering to anyone who is able to donate some of their time.”
Elaine Paige, Ambassador for Royal Voluntary Service, said: No matter what your level of skills or experience, everyone can have a positive impact through volunteering. I have seen it first-hand through my work with Royal Voluntary Service, not only can you make a real difference in your community, but volunteering does the world of good to the volunteers too. The Big Help Out is the perfect opportunity to have a go and see for yourself.”
Ceremonials Minister Stuart Andrew said: "The Big Help Out will shine a spotlight on the power of volunteering to help our communities. It is a tribute to His Majesty The King's lifetime of public service and a wonderful way to begin this new age. I encourage everyone to get involved to celebrate the Coronation of Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort.”
