Monday 1 June sees the start of Volunteers' Week 2026, and Derby City Council is celebrating the people who give their time to support local communities across the city.
Throughout the week, which runs until Sunday 7 June, community activities will take place across Derby to highlight the positive impact volunteers make, while encouraging more residents to discover local volunteering opportunities.
Volunteers play an important role in supporting their community, improving local spaces and bringing residents together. Volunteering can also help people develop confidence, learn new skills, gain experience and meet new people.
Activities taking place during the awareness week include a volunteer day at Osmaston Park on Monday 1 June, from 9.30am until 3pm, where employees from Rolls-Royce will carry out work to help improve and tidy up the park.
On Tuesday 2 June, a Volunteers’ Week Neighbourhood Forum will take place at St Martin’s Church in Allenton from 3pm to 5pm. The event will bring together local organisations, volunteers and community groups to showcase volunteering opportunities and activities taking place across the area. Free refreshments and children’s activities will also be available.
Later in the week, a community coffee morning organised by a local volunteer will take place at Slaney Close Community Room in Alvaston on Thursday 4 June from 10am until midday. Residents will have the opportunity to discuss ideas for a future health and wellbeing hub aimed at supporting the local community.
The Council also has opportunities for volunteers. Residents looking to spend more time outdoors can also get involved with Derby Parks Volunteers, a group working closely with the Council’s Parks team to help care for parks and green spaces across the city. Volunteers support a range of conservation and improvement activities, while also benefiting from fresh air, exercise, new skills and opportunities to meet new people.
Derby’s libraries are vibrant community hubs where dedicated volunteers perform a vital role. This mission is more vital than ever as 2026 marks the National Year of Reading, a national drive to encourage people of all ages to rediscover the joy of books. The libraries offer a range of volunteering opportunities for anyone looking to give something back to their local community. Volunteers help with activities, events and digital support sessions, helping residents build confidence, stay connected and discover new opportunities through library services.
Councillor Sarah Chambers, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Cost of Living, Equalities and Communities, said:
Volunteers make a real difference to communities across Derby, and Volunteers’ Week is an important opportunity to recognise the time, energy and commitment they give to helping others.
Whether supporting local communities, improving green spaces or helping residents feel more connected, volunteers play a vital role in strengthening our communities. We hope this week encourages more people to discover the wide range of volunteering opportunities available across the city.
Residents can find out more about volunteering opportunities across Derby on the Derby City Council volunteering webpages.