This year's Volunteer Fair was a highly successful event, bringing together voluntary, community and public sector organisations with residents interested in making a difference through volunteering across South Derbyshire and the surrounding area.

 

The event welcomed 16 exhibitors representing a diverse range of causes and community initiatives. Participating organisations included NSPCC, Hourglass (Safer Ageing), Derbyshire Constabulary, Citizens Advice Mid Mercia, Family Support Derbyshire, Rainbows Hospice for Children & Young People, Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide – Swadlincote, Derbyshire Constabulary Community Speed Watch, Sight Support Derbyshire, South Derbyshire District Council, SEND Empowerment Group, Derbyshire Recovery & Peer Support Service, The Circle – Swadlincote Family Support Centre, St John Ambulance – Derbyshire South, South Derbyshire Neurodevelopmental Community Hubs and IA (Ileostomy and Internal Pouch Association). This wide-ranging representation enabled attendees to explore volunteering opportunities across a variety of sectors and causes, helping them identify roles that matched their interests, skills and availability.

 

A total of 58 people attended the event.

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Exhibitors reported a remarkable 298 quality conversations with prospective volunteers throughout the event, reflecting a high level of engagement and genuine interest from attendees. 

 

The event attracted significant media interest, with BBC Radio Derby attending to record interviews with representatives from Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide and Hourglass. These interviews formed part of the station’s Make a Difference Day coverage to be broadcast on the Friday, helping to highlight the positive impact of volunteering and showcase the invaluable work being carried out by local organisations and volunteers across the region.

 

Overall, the Volunteer Fair 2026 successfully connected organisations with potential volunteers, increased awareness of local volunteering opportunities and generated meaningful engagement that is expected to lead to increased volunteer participation within the community.

 

The event demonstrated the continued enthusiasm for volunteering across South Derbyshire and reinforced the important role that volunteers play in supporting local services, charities and community groups.