1-7 June marks Volunteers' Week 2026. The week is an annual UK-wide campaign held from the first Monday in June to celebrate and recognise the contributions of volunteers. Launched in 1984, the initiative provides organisations and communities a platform to thank volunteers for their invaluable efforts.
This year, the Diocese has taken the opportunity to celebrate the people who keep our churches and communities thriving by sharing the stories of a range of individuals. You can read about some of them here and find links to videos of the rest at the bottom of the article.
Trinity Food Garden
The Trinity Food Garden is located behind Holy Trinity Church Hall in Kingswood and produces fresh, nutritious food whilst bringing members of the local community together.
The garden is supported by a committed group of volunteers who gather every Thursday between 11.30am and 1.30pm to teach and learn essential gardening techniques. The more experienced volunteers help shape the plot and share their knowledge and experience with others.
The food produced is shared between volunteers and used in the Community Kitchen and Cafe.
Millie, the community gardener, shared how the community garden helped her find community and connection after moving to the area knowing no one. She described how many people come to the community when they are experiencing difficulties in their lives and that the garden can be a relaxing space for them to come to.
Sam: Food Bank Volunteer
Sam shared how he enjoys helping people out and making friends through serving at his local food bank.
Sam helps in several ways, including putting together food packages, taking packages to people and making tea and coffee for people when they come to collect their food.
He described how “volunteering at the food bank makes him happy” and how the chance to meet new people, make friends and build connections contributes to a welcoming environment.
Liz: Parish Safeguarding Officer
As Parish Safeguarding Oficer, Liz deals with any safeguarding issues that are raised, manages the DBS process and provides the church team with any safeguarding support they might need.
She described the opportunity to support her church family in this way as a privilege and says it opened her eyes to the work that needs to be done to ensure everyone is safe in the church environment.
If you would like to hear more about the incredible work done by people across the Diocese, click the button below to head to the Diocese Facebook page where you can watch a series of video of people speaking about their volunteering.