As part of Carers First’s celebrations for Volunteers’ Week 2026, we are saying a huge thank you to the volunteers who help make a difference to carers and communities every day.
Volunteers’ Week, taking place from 1–7 June, is a UK-wide campaign recognising the contribution volunteers make across the country and celebrating the positive impact volunteering has on communities.
At Carers First, around 65 active volunteers support carers in a wide variety of roles. From telephone befrienders and counsellors to peer group facilitators running activities both online and in local communities, volunteers help create welcoming spaces where carers can connect, share experiences and feel supported.
Our volunteers also play an important role in raising awareness of caring and helping us reach more people who may need support. Others take on fundraising challenges to raise money for local carer activities and services.
Across 2025/26, Carers First volunteers donated more than 2,000 hours of their time, supporting over 2,700 carers.
Kelly Rust, Chief Executive of Carers First, said:
“Volunteers are at the heart of so much of what we do. Their kindness, commitment and generosity help carers feel less isolated, more connected and better supported. During Volunteers’ Week, we want to say a sincere thank you to every volunteer who gives their time to support carers and communities through Carers First.”
Volunteers’ Week has been celebrating volunteering across the UK for more than 40 years and highlights the vital role volunteers play in strengthening communities.
At Carers First, volunteering reflects the compassion and community spirit that helps unpaid carers feel recognised and valued.
To all our volunteers — thank you.
There are a range of flexible volunteering opportunities available across Carers First for people who would like to support carers in their local community or online.
To find out more, visit the volunteering section of the Carers First website here.
Online Help and Advice
Visit our online support section where we have provided advice and guidance on a range of relevant topics to help you in your caring role.