Volunteer in the new year

Local groups are inviting new volunteers to join their teams in 2026. Opportunities range from helping run community projects and food initiatives to supporting arts festivals and youth services. 

Westbury Area Network (WAN) 

WAN not only provides a foodbank service but also operates, on behalf of Westbury Town Council, two community fridges at Westbury Community Project and Leigh Park Community Campus (LPCC). 

“This expansion of the service has necessitated identifying more sources of surplus produce. We now collect surplus on 24 separate occasions each week. These collections are also supported by our volunteers, who have stepped up to assist the Leigh Park Campus team while they recruit more people to operate this second venture,” said a spokesperson from WAN. 

“Not only do the fridges reduce significant amounts of food going to landfill, but it has become apparent that our community recognises the need to ‘do their bit’ for the environment by taking and using the produce available. As this becomes increasingly popular, it is clear that more help is needed to maintain the LPCC community fridge service.” 

Anyone with a couple of spare hours to help can contact WAN by email at westburyareanetwork@gmail.com, leave a message on 07780 072619, or contact Debbie Cole at LPCC on 01373 825774. 

Westbury Festival 

Westbury Festival will return from 13th to 26th July 2026, and organisers are looking for friendly, enthusiastic volunteers to join the festival committee and help plan and prepare what promises to be another fantastic celebration of arts and community. 

“You don’t need special experience – just a bit of time, some ideas, and a willingness to pitch in,” said a committee spokesperson. 

“What’s involved? Attending relaxed planning meetings (often in the pub), helping shape the programme and organise events, lending a hand with planning, promotion, or practical tasks, and contributing just a few hours a month to make a real difference. 

“Being part of the committee is a great way to meet people, support local culture, and help create something the whole town can enjoy.” 

To get involved or find out more, email chair@westburyfestival.org.uk. 

Wiltshire Area Youth Service runs Westbury and Warminster youth clubs as well as detached youth work in Warminster, and offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities. 

For those who wish to contribute without working directly with young people, trustee positions are available. Trustees only need to give up two hours a month. 

Those interested in working directly with young people can volunteer at youth clubs. SEN sessions run in Westbury every Monday during term time from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, and the main session in Westbury runs every Wednesday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. 

Volunteers who can spare two to eight hours a week can also join the detached youth work team in Warminster, delivering support and youth work to young people aged 11 to 16 in their own environment on the streets. 

All volunteer work is overseen by the charity manager. No experience is required for any role. Wiltshire Area Youth Service will provide an enhanced DBS check and requires completion of an online safeguarding course. 

To get involved, email admin@wayswiltshire.co.uk. 

Pictured: Westbury Area Network