Thinking of becoming a volunteer?

Published: 2 February 2023

‘Have you ever considered becoming a volunteer?’

That’s the question organisers of a Volunteer Fayre in Exeter are asking.

Exeter’s Volunteer Fayre returns on Thursday 23 March and promises to be bigger and better than ever.

The Fayre takes place at Exeter Cathedral and organisers predict it will attract more than 50 exhibitors and up to 400 visitors - double last year’s numbers.

The Fayre brings together voluntary groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations all of which are looking to recruit new volunteers.

Entry to the Fayre is free and visitors will have the chance to find out more about the organisations exhibiting and the volunteering opportunities on offer.

Thirty-five organisations have already signed up to exhibit including Exeter Leukaemia Fund, Read Easy Exeter, Age UK Exeter, YMCA Exeter and Hospital Radio Exeter.

The Fayre is being organised by local charity Exeter Community Initiatives’ Exeter Connect project, a voluntary, community and social enterprise sector support service which provides free advice, training, networks and events to help organisations and groups in Exeter develop and grow.

Katie Holland, Chief Executive of Exeter Community Initiatives, which helps people facing poverty and inequality to get their lives back on track, said: “If you’re looking to volunteer but not sure what opportunities are out there, then come along to our Volunteer Fayre! 

“Many voluntary groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations are seeing an increase in demand for their services due to the cost-of-living crisis. The need to recruit volunteers who can support them to deliver these much-needed services has never been so urgent.”

The Volunteer Fayre takes place on Thursday 23 March, between 10.30am and 2.30pm at Exeter Cathedral. To book a stand, contact Exeter Connect on 01392 205800 or email info@exeterconnect.org.uk