Helping hands wanted for Sunderland’s big moments
New volunteers scheme brings training and access to major events
Sunderland Culture has launched a new city-wide volunteering initiative aimed at giving residents a direct way to get involved in Sunderland’s major cultural events and public moments.
City Volunteers is a new programme bringing together opportunities from a range of partner organisations, including Sunderland Business Improvement District, Foundation of Light and Culture House, with support from the North East Combined Authority.
The scheme will offer volunteers access to events such as music festivals, city markets and large-scale occasions including BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend, which takes place in Sunderland this May.
Rather than signing up for individual events, volunteers apply once to join a city-wide network, giving them access to opportunities across Sunderland’s cultural calendar. Participants can choose which events they want to support, depending on their interests and availability.
Nick Malyan, chief executive of Sunderland Culture, said the programme is designed to be open and flexible. “We’re looking for people who love Sunderland – who are kind, curious, welcoming and proud of where they’re from, or proud to call it home.
“Whether you’ve lived here forever or just arrived, whether you’ve volunteered before or not – everyone’s welcome.”
He added that City Volunteers is intended to support both the city and those taking part. “You can choose the events that fit your time and interests – from the city’s big moments like the Keel Square fireworks to music festivals, markets, sporting events and more,” he said.
“You’ll gain new skills, meet brilliant people, and be part of big moments in Sunderland’s cultural life.”
A core element of the programme is a structured training offer. All City Volunteers will receive free training covering areas such as customer service, safeguarding, and health and safety, aimed at preparing them to work confidently across a range of public events.
Volunteers will also be required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check as part of the recruitment process.
The scheme is open to anyone aged 16 and over. According to organisers, it is intended to support Sunderland’s wider cultural regeneration by building a visible, skilled and welcoming volunteer presence at key events.
“City Volunteers is a new way to get involved in Sunderland’s transformation,” Nick said. “From event skills to customer service, sustainability to leadership, City Volunteers offers brilliant opportunities to grow confidence and experience – and will look great on a CV.”
More information and application details are available via the Sunderland Culture website.