Every year, Volunteers’ Week gives us a moment to pause, reflect and celebrate the people who make Jessie May’s work possible. This year marks the 42nd Volunteers’ Week – a UK‑wide celebration running from 1–7 June 2026, recognising the time, passion and skills volunteers contribute to charities across the country. As the national campaign says, it’s a chance to highlight “the diversity and unity of volunteer work across the UK.”
At Jessie May, we are incredibly lucky to have a growing community of volunteers in Bristol and the surrounding areas, who give their time in so many ways – from cheering at events, supporting families at community days, helping behind the scenes, speaking at local groups, or capturing special moments through photography. Every hour they give helps us continue providing vital support to children with life‑limiting and life‑threatening conditions at home.
This week, we want to say a huge thank you and share some of the voices of the people who make our work shine.
Here’s what volunteering with Jessie May means to the people who give their time.
What Our Volunteers Say…
Izzy – 14, volunteer at multiple events
“I really enjoy volunteering for Jessie May because I love helping people, and I know the money we raise goes to a really good cause. It’s helped me build my confidence – talking to new people, improving my communication skills, and learning how to work with others. Those are things I’ll take into future jobs.
Having a brother with additional needs gives me a personal connection to the charity also, and it makes me want to help even more. It feels good to support the people who support families like mine. I also love doing the events with my family – the firewalk and Castle Combe were especially fun. I prefer volunteering over just fundraising because it means I can actually help others raise money too.”
Tamsin – volunteered at Castle Combe Steam Rally
“I wanted my daughter to come with me to volunteer and if I am honest, I thought is was just ‘good for her CV’. It turned out to be so much more than that; it was an initial challenge for her to be out of her comfort zone, mixing with people she didn’t know and doing things she had never done before. But even in the few hours we volunteered, I saw her confidence grow.
She thought Kath was brilliant the way she organised and supported us, and we had a really lovely day together knowing we were making a difference to other children and families. Thank you Jessie May, and when can we sign up to volunteer again?!”
Julian – volunteer photographer
“Volunteering for Jessie May is an amazing experience. As a parent of a child with complex disability, I understand just what a difference it makes to the families to have an organisation like Jessie May by their side. As their volunteer photographer, I see how the calendar of events allow the families to come together with others in a similar position in a supported environment. None of that would be possible without the team at Jessie May and the volunteers who give up their time to help and I’m very proud to be able to say that I’m a small part of that team.
Jessie May is just an amazing charity for thr support they provide to families who have to deal with the most unimaginable challenges with their children on a daily basis and I’m always happy to give my time to help in any way I can.”
Anne Harris – long‑standing supporter and former trustee
“Having known about Jessie May since its beginnings in 1996, I’m proud to spread the word about this amazing charity and the vital support it provides to families caring for their children.
I’ve given several talks on behalf of Jessie May and people are always welcoming, interested, and keen to support the charity. Each talk takes only a small amount of time, but can have a huge impact on the families who rely on Jessie May. Every donation helps.
I truly enjoy volunteering for jessie may and would encourage anyone interested to get involved – become part of the Jessie May team, you won’t regret it.”
🌟 What Volunteering with Jessie May Involves
Volunteering with Jessie May is flexible, meaningful and open to everyone. Whether you have an hour, a day, or a specific skill to share, there’s a place for you.
Our volunteers help with:
- Events – cheering, welcoming families, running stalls, supporting activities
- Community fundraising – helping us raise vital funds
- Photography and creative skills – capturing moments that matter
- Talks and outreach – helping spread the word about our work
- Family events – supporting children and parents in safe, joyful spaces
Every volunteer becomes part of the Jessie May family – helping us create memories, build community, and ensure families never feel alone.
💛 Join Us – You’ll Make a Difference
This Volunteers’ Week, we want to thank every person who has given their time to Jessie May. You make our work possible.
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering – whether for a one‑off event or something more regular, we’d love to welcome you.
👉 Find out more and sign up: Volunteering Bristol Volunteering – Jessie May
