Volunteers' Week 2026

We are proud to have a rich history of volunteering at CSSC, and supporting the health and wellbeing of our members is at the heart of everything that we do.

Discover how our members were involved with volunteering in 2025 and look out for more volunteering opportunities in 2026.

Volunteers' Week 2026

We are proud to have a rich history of volunteering at CSSC, and supporting the health and wellbeing of our members is at the heart of everything that we do.

Discover how our members were involved with volunteering in 2025 and look out for more volunteering opportunities in 2026.

Hear from our volunteers

A group of walkers on a hike in Scotland.A group of walkers on a hike in Scotland.

Sport

George Ross, Walk Leader

 

“I’ve been a volunteer with CSSC for over a year. I organise local walks for fellow CSSC members in and around Edinburgh. Volunteering has been great for my mental health. I get to give back to the community and meet new people all whilst staying active."

Joshua Jones standing at the marathon barrier on a London street.Joshua Jones standing at the marathon barrier on a London street.

V-Team

Joshua Jones, London Marathon Volunteer

“If you’re thinking of volunteering I would say do it. V-Team is a really good team environment, where these events are organised on your behalf by CSSC, and you can just go in and see what’s available to support with – with lots of things that really drew my attention."

Janet Welch taking a selfie.Janet Welch taking a selfie.

Local Events

Janet Welch, Events Organiser

 

“When I joined CSSC, I loved attending local events. As soon as I realised the event organisers were all volunteers, I jumped at the chance to get involved. I now get to try something new, with an amazing group of people, willing to join me and try something new themselves!”

Volunteer steven standing with skis on in the snowy mountains.Volunteer steven standing with skis on in the snowy mountains.

Blog: Why Volunteer for CSSC?

CSSC as an organisation arranges many events over the course of a year, but not everyone has the experience to organise an exclusive group Ski trip. That's where volunteers can be a valuable source of information and hands on experience.

Volunteer steven standing with skis on in the snowy mountains.Volunteer steven standing with skis on in the snowy mountains.

Blog: Why Volunteer for CSSC?

CSSC as an organisation arranges many events over the course of a year, but not everyone has the experience to organise an exclusive group Ski trip. That's where volunteers can be a valuable source of information and hands on experience.

How to get involved

Feeling connected and part of something bigger matters, so why not join our vibrant volunteer community, the ‘Purple Army’, today!

Man wearing a purple jacket with 'volunteers maker it happen' on the backMan wearing a purple jacket with 'volunteers maker it happen' on the back

Volunteering in sport is one of the simplest ways to make a real impact in your community while gaining valuable skills and experience.

From coaching grassroots teams to helping organise events, volunteers are the backbone of helping our members get active at every level!

Join today - your contribution can make sport and physical activity more accessible and enjoyable for all.

Three colleauges chatting.Three colleauges chatting.

Get involved in your local area through a variety of volunteer roles.

 From supporting your Area Association as a committee member, to organising events, becoming a Workplace Champion, or becoming a qualified walk leader —there’s something for everyone. Each role is unique, so whatever your skill, hobby or passion, there’s a home and a community for you.

Find out more and start making a difference today.

Volunteer cheering runners onVolunteer cheering runners on

Want to get involved in exciting one-off events? The V-Team offers flexible volunteering opportunities across our bespoke activities —from national tournaments to challenges like the Capital 5K.

Whether you have a few hours or a full day, you can support memorable events, meet new people, and be part of something special.

Sign up today to discover where the V-Team could take you.

Volunteer gardening.Volunteer gardening.

Become a volunteer

Sign up to find out more about the fantastic opportunities available and how you can get involved.

Alternatively, head online to find out more about volunteering with CSSC

Become a volunteer

Volunteer gardening.Volunteer gardening.

Then join sign up to find out more about the fantastic opportunities available and how you can get involved.

Alternatively, head online to find out more about volunteering with CSSC

Exclusive Events Volunteering - Member Testimonials

Penguins at London zoo.Penguins at London zoo.

ZSL London Zoo Volunteering Day

November 2025

"Volunteering at ZSL London Zoo with CSSC was fantastic! Getting to see the penguins interact with the enrichment tools we made for them was so much fun."

Greenhouse at Kew gardens.Greenhouse at Kew gardens.

Kew Gardens Volunteering Day

July 2025

"I really enjoyed volunteering at Kew. I’ve visited many times, and it was a great opportunity to help prepare for the orchid festival. The staff were very welcoming."
A group of volunteers standing for a photo at Alnwick gardens.A group of volunteers standing for a photo at Alnwick gardens.

Alnwick Gardens Volunteering Day

2025

"The Alnwick Gardens volunteering day was really good - it helped that we got a gorgeous sunny day for it. The tour of the Poison Garden and Lillidorei."

Celebrating our volunteers at the CSSC Awards 2026

Each year, CSSC recognise the incredible contributions made by our volunteers as part of our annual CSSC Awards. FInd out more about each of our winning volunteers below.

The Russell Scott Award (Area Association of the year)

Winner: Hunts, Cambs and Beds

Hunts, Cambs and Beds have a strong team of volunteers which they have further grown during 2025. They work well together and collaboratively with head office, to deliver a wide range of engaging local activities, which are popular with members. They have a positive outlook, embracing change to provide the best local experience for members and a great environment for volunteers.  

The Merit Award

Winners: Jackie Fordham, Richard Kellett, Richard Turner and David Warburton

These CSSC volunteers have shown highly meritorious service over a sustained period and have made a significant impact in one or more areas.

The Lord Turnbull Award (Volunteer of the Year)

Winner: Annette McDonald MBE

Annette led the setup of the Hatton Adventure World offer supporting Coventry Area through the process. Her insight, proactive approach, and expertise also demonstrated through successful offers in other Areas and her Midlands conference presentation resulted in exceptional member uptake and a smooth, well-run scheme.

The John Whittaker Fellowship Award

Winner: Clive Arnold

Clive Arnold is recognised for his exceptional dedicationand passion for CSSC. A member and volunteer for over 50 years, including 28 years as Chair of East Kent Area, he played a key role in building one of CSSC’s most active and engaging regions. Under his leadership, the team delivered more than 100 events annually, creating opportunities for members to connect, build community and try new experiences. His commitment, integrity and ability to inspire volunteers have driven lasting growth and strong member engagement across the organisation.