Volunteer
Be a part of something special
Support participants at Race for Life - one of our biggest series of fundraising events.
Our Race for Life events couldn't happen without volunteers. Whatever time and skills you have to share, we've got a great role for you. Just bring your energy, smiles and passion to the party and let's help beat cancer together.
Help set up and run the race, support our participants around the course or hand out medals at the finish line. With over 400 events taking place in the UK, our participants are walking, jogging and running all over cancer.
What to expect when volunteering
We need volunteers to help us deliver key aspects of our events, and there's plenty of exciting things you might be asked to help with. You will get more detail on exactly what you will be doing once you've signed up. The Event Manager will be get in touch with you approximately 4 weeks before the event to give you all the info you need, and to answer any questions you might have.
Set up & Start Volunteer
Get stuck in at the start of the day - from pitching flags and hanging banners to helping line up our participants and sending them on their way - you definitely won’t be twiddling your thumbs.
Enquiries Volunteer
With the excitement of race day there’s bound to be questions! You can help by supporting our participants and spectators with their queries.
Course Marshal Volunteer
Cheer on our participants as they take part and lift some spirits along the way. You also ensure their safety and that they're going in the right direction through the course. Your support will spur them on!
Finish Line Volunteer
You might be asked to help out at our buzzing finish line, where you will hand out water and medals and welcome our participants back with a smile.
Wai
"I started volunteering nearly 8 years ago now and I can't see myself stopping anytime soon! To me it’s all about helping those in need - in need of a cure, in need of a friend, in need of support. I’ve watched people achieve something they never thought they could, helped them overcome obstacles and joined them in tears as they cross the finish line.”
Cherie
“In those last metres of the race the atmosphere is electric, and though I adore running, each year I always make sure I’m available to volunteer - it’s always so much fun and the memories and friends you make will stay with you forever. If you’re thinking about volunteering, do it! It’s so easy to get involved and the roles are flexible so you can find something to suit you.“
Lucy
“Volunteering at events means that I can give something back and help to make sure that one day, no one will have to experience cancer. There are so many highlights at every event, from seeing the site to take place to supporting thousands of people in pink cross the finish line. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing we’ve done our bit to help.”
Share your story with your volunteer backsign
Download your volunteer backsign and share the story behind why you volunteer.
Any time at all that you can spare would be much appreciated. No matter how much time you have, your helping hands will be a valuable asset to the event!
Please let the event manager know how long you are able to be on site and we can make sure your role is flexible to your availability. We need volunteers to help set up and pack down so don’t worry if you can’t stay the whole day or make it for the start of the event.
Please do not register online! Instead, you’ll need to fill in a paper application form and have it signed by a parent or guardian. You can do this on the day, or request a form prior to the event by emailing volunteering@cancer.org.uk, letting us know your name, age and which event you want to volunteer at. We will then pass on your details to the event organiser who will be in touch nearer the time with further details. Under 16s: you will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian on the day.
- It’s an amazing experience - volunteering at The Race for Life event has an atmosphere like no other.
- The satisfaction of knowing that you are making a valuable contribution to the life-saving work Cancer Research UK is doing right now.
- The experience of working with one of the UK’s leading charities on its premier national event series.
- Meeting new and like-minded people in your local area and creating a positive impact in your community.
- Learning new skills and gaining new experiences to support you in your personal and career development.
- A volunteer t-shirt and light refreshments.
A member of the team will contact you before the event to discuss any queries you have about the event or your role. You’ll receive briefing notes before the event and a full explanation of your role on the day. All volunteer teams have a designated manager who will guide and support you in your role and answer any questions you may have.
