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Form of work“Volunteering is such a rewarding experience. You meet some truly inspiring individuals, and you have the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a difference.” - Robin Hancock, Event Volunteer.
Overview
Through research we are beating cancer. Step by step. Day by day. But beating cancer is a team effort and our research isn’t possible without you.
In every corner of the UK, 400,000 participants are limbering up to join the fight against cancer. Our events raise an incredible £40million each year which funds our research. When you join us on event day, you play a pivotal role in helping us find ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.
Whether you want to help at a Race for Life or Pretty Muddy event, we’ve got more than 400 across the UK to choose from.
Bring your energy, smiles and passion and let’s beat cancer together.
You can make a big difference in just a few hours.
We’re looking for flexible, enthusiastic volunteers to support our events across the UK. Whether you’re going solo, bringing a friend or part of a larger group, your support means our events can run smoothly and raise money to fund lifesaving research. We’re looking for people who are:
Engaging, friendly and keen to make sure everyone has a brilliant day.
Willing to get stuck in and help.
Good communicators.
Flexible and can use their own initiative.
Team players – you’ll be joining a lovely bunch of other volunteers!
At Cancer Research UK we know that a diverse volunteer community will help us to beat cancer. We're committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. Whether you’re a first-time volunteer or a seasoned veteran, we’d love for you to join us!
Before the event
The Event Manager will be in touch 4 weeks before the event with a full briefing including timings, what to expect, what to bring and to answer any questions you might have.
On the day
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You’ll meet other inspiring volunteers and be briefed by our events team staff about the day ahead.
What you’ll be doing
Before the event, you can tell us what you’d like to do on the day. You can choose one of the following roles (please specify this in the free text section of the application form labelled ‘Experience’), or you can opt to be a general volunteer and get stuck in wherever you might be needed! No matter what you do you’ll know you are making a huge difference to those taking part in our amazing events.
Event Day Volunteer - Setting up and packing down the event (this may include helping to set up the course and marshal stations, putting up marquees, getting water to the finish line and cleaning up after the event has finished).
Course Marshal & Obstacle Marshal - You could be located at one of our Course Marshal points, cheering and encouraging our participants and helping them to navigate their way around the course. At our Pretty Muddy events, as an Obstacle Marshal you get the opportunity to guide participants as they climb, crawl and slide their way around the Obstacles and also help them get as muddy as possible!
Enquiries & Admin Volunteer - You'll help answer queries from participants and spectators during the event. From simple directions to processing on-the-day entries, swapping t-shirts and replacing runner numbers.
Lead Bike - You will lead the participants making sure they remain on the correct route. This role requires your own bike suitable to the terrain of the course.
The benefits you can expect
When you volunteer at a Race for Life or Pretty Muddy event, you make a difference. Get outside, have fun, meet fantastic people, build your confidence, and help beat cancer. Volunteering with us has a host of other benefits, including:
Developing new and existing skills in event management.
Playing your part in contributing to a good cause.
Helping to support your community.
Gaining valuable experience for future roles.
Gaining a unique insight into the world of the charity sector.
Meeting new people and having fun!
Your commitment and location
Event season normally runs from May to July, all over the UK.
You can join us at one or more of our events at locations that work for you.
Most events take place at weekends, although we do have some weekday evening events in selected locations.
You can commit to a time that suits you, anything from a few hours to a full day! For example, a Race for Life event may run from 9:30am-1:30pm but one of our Bumper Days may run from 8:30am-4:30pm. You could commit to a half day, a full day or a shift of a few hours - whichever suits you!
You can view our calendar of events here to find your closest event.
The support we provide
You will be briefed by one of our event team staff when you arrive so that you know exactly what you'll be doing. You'll then be supported and guided by them throughout the event, as well as the Event Manager.
We'll also provide light refreshments and a great atmosphere which you'll be sure to love!
Accessibility
Our volunteering roles are open to everyone. If you have any accessibility needs or queries, please get in touch via email – volunteering@cancer.org.uk
How to sign up
Just click on the Apply Now link at the top of the page, fill out the form and we’ll be in touch!
If you have any questions about becoming a Race for Life Volunteer, please email volunteering@cancer.org.uk
