A Look Back on FestiVol

A reflection on Wirral's biggest volunteer celebration event

Back in September 2025, when we started conversations with Volunteer Managers about how we could celebrate volunteers, we made a group decision that whatever we did it needed to be fun, inclusive and show every volunteer that they were valued and appreciated.

Reflecting back on FestiVol, which was held on 28th February 2026, we’d like to think we achieved all three, and based the feedback we’ve received – volunteers agree! Across the day, the atmosphere was exactly what we had hoped for – relaxed, vibrant and genuinely joyful. Volunteers from across Wirral’s VCFSE sector came together not just to take part in activities, but to connect, share experiences and recognise the collective impact they make in their communities every day.

Something for every pace and preference

The programme offered three themed sessions designed to ensure there was something for everyone. From creative workshops and wellbeing sessions, to live musical entertainment and opportunities to simply sit, chat and enjoy the space, volunteers and their family could participate in whatever fitted with their tastes and mood on the day. It was also a rare opportunity to step away from their roles and be on the receiving end of support and appreciation.

We started the day with our calmer session - which held a range of wellbeing activities such as mindfulness, a sound bath and hand massages with a ASMR session. At lunch time, we picked up the tempo and the energy levels, with the Hive’s climbing wall, circus skills, and live music from Los Amigos. The final afternoon session brought in Line dancing, biscuit decorating and a final show closing act from the China Spirit UK’s Lion Dancers. There were plenty of ongoing activities on throughout the whole day too – such as our wandering magician, the sensory room, the photo booth and our arts and crafts session. Many people came for one session and opted to stay all day as there was so much choice.

Food played its part too, acting as a simple but important way to bring people together. The morning session had pastries and fruit set out, lunch time there was a range of burgers (suiting different dietary needs) and chips; and the final afternoon session saw an array of cakes and sandwiches laid out for everyone to enjoy.

FestiVol Feedback

What stood out most was the diversity of those who attended. Volunteers of all ages, backgrounds and experiences were represented, reflecting the breadth and strength of volunteering across Wirral. The feedback we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive. Volunteers spoke about feeling valued, recognised and, importantly, visible. Several highlighted how meaningful it was to be part of something that celebrated volunteering as a whole, rather than focusing on individual roles or organisations.

One volunteer sent us the following email as thanks: 

“Just writing to thank all of you for such a wonderful day at FestiVol today. Everyone was so lovely, the activities so varied and nourishing. I felt valued and appreciated and my grandchildren had an absolute ball. The food was fab too and I talked to so many lovely people. The hand massage was extraordinary. Thanks so much for all the hard work which it must have taken to create this oasis of kindness in difficult times”

Our Volunteer Managers have also let us know that the event had an impact on them too:

“A perfect day!” Rose from Age UK Wirral Liverpool and Sefton told us “Wirral CVS what an event you gave the amazing volunteers of Wirral! Everyone that attended/helped – so much love and energy under one roof! Bliss”

“I’d just like to say what a great day, well done everyone and thank you from myself, family and CWP volunteers who attended” said Donna Cain from CWP.

So... What next?

For us, FestiVol wasn’t just a one-off event. It was a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when the sector works collaboratively with a shared purpose. The involvement of volunteer managers in shaping the event was critical, ensuring it remained grounded in what volunteers themselves would genuinely appreciate.

As with any large-scale event, there are things we would refine and build on if FestiVol became an annual occurrence. We’ll make sure we continue to listen to feedback and use this in planning for 2027.

What FestiVol has shown is that there is both an appetite and a need for spaces that centre volunteers, not just as contributors, but as individuals whose time, energy and commitment deserve to be celebrated. We’re excited to build on this with organisations across the Wirral to ensure every volunteer feels recognised, supported and celebrated all year round.