Royal Voluntary Service is opening its doors and inviting people in and around Stoke to join the events it’s holding as part of The Big Help Out.

Budding volunteers and members of the local community will be able to drop into the charity’s Hanley Centre on Charles Street to find out more about volunteering, sit in on the groups it runs and see what they offer.

Attendees will also be able to discuss the available opportunities and hear about the first-hand experiences of volunteers and the benefits they’ve experienced from their rewarding work. 

The ‘open house’ sessions will take place on Monday 3 June from 10am - 12pm, Wednesday 5 June from 10am - 12pm, Thursday 6 June from 1pm - 3pm and Friday 7 June from 10am - 12pm. The centre will also open especially for The Big Help Out on Saturday 8 June from 10am - 2pm.

Last year, 6.3 million people joined the first ever Big Help Out event, which was launched as an official celebration of Their Majesties’ Coronation. This year, it’s hoped even more people will join in the nationwide event, which takes place from 7-9th June and offers a taste of how fun and rewarding volunteering can be.

Royal Voluntary Service’s Hanley Centre is a hub for the people of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, helping them stay connected to their community, physically active, and social. The centre’s café serves tea, coffee and tasty food prepared by the on-site cook with local produce Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm. The centre and its volunteers also provide a variety of events and activities, including dementia support, crafting, gentle exercise and social events, all of which support people to remain active, social and connected to their community.

More volunteers are currently needed to support at the Hanley Centre with roles including providing companionship to attendees, helping run craft and activity sessions and driving people to and from the groups. 

Dave Stott, Assistant Director of Volunteering, Royal Voluntary Service said: “We would be thrilled to welcome new faces to our services at the Hanley Centre. This is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to see what we do and to experience the rewards of volunteering first-hand.

“Joining us for The Big Help Out is a great chance to meet new people, learn new skills, and make a valuable contribution to the community. For anyone curious about volunteering, this is the perfect chance to see how fun and fulfilling it can be. We encourage everyone to sign up and join us!”

To try this volunteering taster session, register on The Big Help Out app or visit thebighelpout.org.uk, to sign up.