Description
Brits are being encouraged to take on hundreds of thousands of prominent volunteer roles as part of coronation celebrations that aim to reflect the sector's central role in the UK's 'national history'. Love Island star Faye Winter and Dragons' Den businesswoman Deborah Meaden are among the celebrities promoting The Big Help Out, with more than 1,500 charities involved. New opportunities available to members of the public through the organization's app starting Monday, March 20 include options to help the elderly, the environment, support animal welfare and work within their local communities.
The initiative is officially part of the king's coronation, and people are encouraged to lend a hand on the May 8th bank holiday or organize another occasion to donate their time or skills.
The Big Help Out app can be searched by zip code, type of activity needed, or organizations involved.
The project aims to raise awareness of volunteering opportunities across the UK and has been designed by leading charities including Scouts, the Royal Voluntary Service and Guide Dogs.
Organizers expect an unprecedented community mobilization to “highlight the central role volunteerism plays in our national history” and inspire a new generation of volunteers during Carlos' reign.
Minister for Ceremonial Events, including Coronation, Stuart Andrew, said: “The Big Help Out will highlight the power of volunteering to help our communities. It is a tribute to His Majesty the King's life of public service and a wonderful way to start this new era.
"I encourage everyone to participate in the coronation celebration of Their Majesties the King and Queen Consort."
Paralympic swimming gold medalist Ellie Simmonds, who is a volunteer and Scout ambassador, said: “Volunteerism is at the heart of our national history, from families hosting refugees from the Ukraine to volunteers leading Scout groups and even individuals who they look up to a neighbor when times are hard.
"Today we're launching The Big Help Out app - it's your one stop shop for hundreds of thousands of volunteer opportunities across the country."
Meaden said: “I know a good idea when I see one and Big Help Out is one. That's why everyone is on it.
"Charities, businesses and now the public can also participate," he added.
Winter, who volunteers with Guide Dogs, said: "It's so rewarding to be a guide dog foster family and to know that you're helping each dog on their journey to support someone living with vision loss.
"It's a fantastic cause and I would recommend volunteering to anyone who can give their time."
Music star and Radio 2 presenter Elaine Paige, Royal Voluntary Service Ambassador, said: 'No matter your skill level or experience, anyone can make a positive impact through volunteering.
"I've seen it with my own eyes through my work with the Royal Voluntary Service, not only can you make a real difference in your community, but volunteering does volunteers a lot of good too."
Coronation weekend will take place from Saturday May 6 to Monday May 8 and thousands of events are expected across the country.
Monday will be a special holiday and has been reserved for volunteering in tribute to the King's life of public service.
Buckingham Palace said the day would "encourage people to try volunteering themselves and join the work being done to support their local areas."
Their goal is to use volunteerism to bring communities together and create a lasting legacy of coronation weekend volunteering.
PA files
Access
