How Wirral said thank you in Volunteers' Week 2026
- jenpaton5
- 9 hours ago
- 4 min read
Volunteers' Week is one of our favourite times of the year – an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible people who give their time, energy and talents to make Wirral a better place.
Volunteers' Week, which took place from 1st – 7th June, is a UK-wide campaign dedicated to recognising the invaluable contribution volunteers make throughout the year. It provides an opportunity to celebrate the impact of volunteering, share inspiring stories and encourage more people to discover the many benefits of getting involved.
This year's celebrations reached thousands of people across Wirral, highlighting the breadth, diversity and value of volunteering in our borough. Throughout the week, it was inspiring to see the many different ways organisations across Wirral showed their appreciation for the volunteers who make their work possible.
The WCVS volunteering team were lucky enough to attend some of the volunteer celebration events taking place to see and see first-hand how volunteers were being recognised and thanked for their incredible contribution.
Here are just some of the events and activities that took place during the week:
Citizen Advice Wirral hosted a volunteer lunch and quiz that brough together their team of 50 volunteers who provide vital advice services to Wirral Residents. The event featured live music, certificates for long service volunteers and a speech from the Deputy Mayor.
Bringing together entertainment, peer connection and formal recognition, the event created what the Volunteer Coordinator described as "a lovely afternoon".
Dementia Together Wirral created an innovative celebration that gave volunteers the opportunity to take part in a drumming workshop – an activity they often facilitate for people living with dementia. The organisation brought in “Rhythm Reaction” to lead a therapeutic workshop for 18 volunteers, followed by afternoon tea which provided an afternoon of fun, celebration and connection between these fantastic volunteers that give their time to bring joy to those living with Dementia in the Wirral.
Koala North West created what volunteers described as a “huge family gathering” at Ness Gardens where 45 volunteers attended for afternoon tea and quizzes. Volunteers were thanked by the CEO and Chair. The relaxed atmosphere allowed volunteers from different teams to meet face to face many for the first time.
One volunteer reflected 'It's so lovely to meet up with the people who are there keeping everything going, often out of sight. To meet and chat with the other volunteers, put names to faces, understand what they are doing and where they are doing it.' The organisation surprised volunteers with gifts, generating heartfelt gratitude. The event created space for volunteers to feel part of something bigger than their individual roles. For many, that sense of belonging is an important part of sustaining the valuable work they do to support local families.
The Positivitree decided to do something a little different to reflect the busy lives of their parent carer volunteers. Rather than hosting an event that few could attend, the organisation created personalised wellbeing packs for each volunteer. These thoughtful packages included a drinks voucher, notebook and pen, thank-you keyring, affirmation coaster, eye patches, flavoured tea bags, and a personal thank-you card.
Volunteers have fed back that the gift made them feel “seen and acknowledged” and that they could tell a lot of thought has gone into this”.
Wirral Hospice St John's marked Volunteers' Week with a programme of activities designed to celebrate the diverse range of volunteer roles across the organisation. The CEO and Volunteer Manager visited all 11 charity shops during the week, meeting more than 40 volunteers and hearing about their experiences. 470 handwritten cards were given to volunteers, and the week was concluded with afternoon tea on Sunday with 70 volunteers in attendance, and a chance to celebrate some of the longest serving volunteers within the charity.
We went along to Tomorrow’s Women during Volunteers’ Week, and what a lovely visit it was. They had invited their invaluable volunteers to enjoy a beautiful lunch, all centred around saying a huge thank you for everything they do. From the moment everyone arrived, it was clear that this was a very special event, created to show just how much the organisation appreciates and values its volunteers.
It was so lovely to spend time speaking with the volunteers and trustees who attended. There was such a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and you could really see how much the afternoon meant to everyone there. The volunteers had the chance to relax, enjoy themselves and spend some well-deserved time together at an event that was purely for them. It was a wonderful way to recognise the commitment, care, support, skills and time they give so generously.
There was a real buzz in the room throughout the lunch as people chatted, laughed and enjoyed each other’s company. The whole event felt full of gratitude, kindness and celebration. It was clear that the volunteers felt truly valued and special, and that this time had been set aside to recognise the difference they make.
A particularly lovely touch at the end of the meal was the awards ceremony, where volunteers were recognised for their hard work and dedication. It was a proud and heartfelt moment, and a wonderful way to end such a thoughtful event.
It really was such a lovely afternoon and the puddings looked absolutely delicious too!
Inspired to get involved?
If you've been inspired by the stories shared during Volunteers' Week, there are hundreds of opportunities to volunteer across Wirral.
Whether you're looking to use your professional skills, meet new people, gain experience or give something back to your community, there's a volunteering opportunity waiting for you.
Comments