Maidstone Residents Invited to Learn More About Volunteering

Maidstone residents are being invited to discover local volunteering opportunities at a dedicated Volunteer Day taking place on Monday 1 June, from 10am to 2pm, at Market Hall.

The event, organised in partnership with local voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations, is designed to connect residents, particularly those facing barriers to employment or social isolation, with a wide range of volunteering opportunities that can support confidence, skills development, wellbeing and pathways into work.

A wide variety of VCS organisations will be attending, offering informal conversations, sign‑ups and hands‑on taster activities. The day will also include short spotlight talks from selected organisations, giving attendees the chance to hear directly about different volunteering roles and how to get involved.

Volunteering opportunities on offer will suit a wide range of interests and circumstances, including roles that support wellbeing, build routine and social connection, or help people develop experience and skills that can lead to training, work experience or employment. The event aligns with local employment support initiatives, including the Connect to Work and DWP partnership.

Cllr David Naghi, Cabinet Member for Community Cohesion and Safety at Maidstone Borough Council, said:

"Volunteering plays an important role in strengthening our communities, improving wellbeing and helping people build confidence, skills and connections. Without the commitment of our regular volunteers, many people's lives would be significantly affected.

"This Volunteer Day is about making opportunities visible, accessible and welcoming, particularly for residents who may face barriers to getting involved. By bringing local organisations and residents together in one place, we're helping people take positive steps that benefit both individuals and our wider community."

As well as supporting residents, the Volunteer Day aims to help local VCS organisations recruit volunteers with diverse lived experience, strengthen relationships with each other and the council, and share learning around volunteer recruitment and retention.

Interactive elements on the day will include a Volunteer Passport prize draw, real‑life volunteer stories displayed around the venue, and a selfie board encouraging people to share their volunteering ambitions. A café will be open throughout the event.

The Volunteer Day is free to attend and open to residents facing barriers to employment, including health conditions, caring responsibilities or low confidence as well as people seeking social connection or wellbeing benefits. There will also be opportunities for young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) and older residents looking to re‑engage with community life.

Local VCS organisations, DWP Work Coaches, employment support providers and council services offering volunteering opportunities will also be represented.

No booking is required and people are encouraged to drop in at any point during the day.

Enquiries to: VCSLiaison@maidstone.gov.uk