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Welcome to our June Newsletter!
June always feels like a month of momentum — longer days, renewed energy, and a sense that community life is in full swing. Across Guildford and Waverley, that spirit is unmistakable. Volunteers, organisations, and local partners have been busy launching summer projects, supporting residents, and strengthening the connections that make our area such a vibrant place to live.
This month, we celebrate new initiatives, spotlighting inspiring volunteer stories, and sharing opportunities for anyone looking to get involved. Whether you’re coordinating a project, giving your time, or simply cheering on the work happening around you, your contribution continues to make a real difference.
Thank you for being part of this community. Happy reading!
VASWS News: Celebrating Volunteers’ Week in Guildford A Summer of Volunteering in Guildford and Waverley Altitude Coffee Bar Drop‑In: A Warm Volunteers’ Week Gathering in Cranleigh Mini Conference 2026: Building confidence in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion for you and your organisation Joe's Buddy Line The Body Coach Foundation Surrey Remap: Making Everyday Life Easier Through Custom Engineering Solutions Alcohol Health Champions Supporting Alcohol Awareness Week Club4 Returns This Summer With Fully‑Funded Activities for Surrey Families Mental Health in Surrey Haslemere Biodiversity are looking for a Volunteer Co-ordinator Free meal planning tool launches for Waverley and Guildford residents
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Celebrating Volunteers’ Week in Guildford |
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Volunteers’ Week gave us the perfect opportunity to recognise the incredible people who give their time, energy and heart to our community. On Tuesday 2 June, we welcomed volunteers to our Millmead office in Guildford for a relaxed morning of conversation, connection and a little local history.
The day began with coffee and cakes served by our Volunteer Connections team member Kate Jones, creating a friendly space for volunteers to meet, chat and share stories. It was a simple but meaningful way to say thank you to those who make such a difference throughout the year.
After refreshments, our staff volunteer co‑ordinator — and well‑known local historian — David Rose led guests on a short guided walk exploring some of Guildford’s most fascinating historic spots. Starting from Millmead, the group visited:
Millmead Lock — learning about the River Wey Navigations and their role in shaping the town St Mary’s Churchyard — one of Guildford’s oldest and most atmospheric sites Guildford Castle Grounds — with a focus on the area’s medieval past The Castle War Memorials — reflecting on the stories behind the monuments beside the bowling green
The walk offered a wonderful blend of heritage and community spirit, giving volunteers a chance to see the town through fresh eyes while enjoying David’s expert storytelling.
And in perfect British fashion, the weather added its own dramatic flourish — the group had just returned to the office when a sudden downpour swept across Town. Spirits remained high, though, and the rain only added to the sense of a memorable day shared together.
Volunteers’ Week is always a highlight in our calendar, and this year’s celebration reminded us once again how vital volunteers are to everything we do. We’re grateful for their time, their passion and their commitment to making Guildford a better place for everyone. |
A Summer of Volunteering in Guildford and Waverley |
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Summer brings a special kind of energy to Guildford and Waverley — parks buzzing with activity, community events filling the calendar, and local organisations launching projects that thrive in the longer, lighter days. It’s the perfect moment to celebrate the volunteers who make so much of this possible, and to welcome new people looking to get involved.
Across Guildford, Waverley, and the surrounding villages, volunteers are stepping into roles that bring people together, support vulnerable residents, and strengthen the fabric of local life. From stewarding at summer fairs to helping run children’s holiday activities, the season offers opportunities for every interest and schedule.
One of the most popular roles this time of year is outdoor volunteering — from conservation days on the North Downs to community gardening projects that keep shared spaces blooming. These activities not only improve the environment but also create a sense of shared pride and belonging.
Local charities are also gearing up for summer fundraising events, which rely on volunteers to run stalls, welcome visitors, and keep everything running smoothly. These events are often the highlight of the season, bringing together families, neighbours, and supporters for a day of fun with a purpose.
For those who prefer quieter, more personal roles, summer is a wonderful time to join befriending programmes. Many older residents feel the absence of routine services during the holiday period, and volunteers offering companionship or practical help can make a huge difference.
How to Get Involved This Summer
Whether you have an hour, a day, or a whole season to give, there’s a role waiting for you. Voluntary Action South West Surrey can help match you with opportunities that fit your interests, skills, and availability — from event support to nature projects to community outreach.
Summer is a time of warmth, connection, and shared purpose. By giving even a little of your time, you help create the vibrant, supportive community that makes South West Surrey such a special place to live.
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Altitude Coffee Bar Drop‑In: A Warm Volunteers’ Week Gathering in Cranleigh |
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Volunteers’ Week gave us another brilliant reason to get out into the community, this time at the welcoming Altitude Coffee Bar in Cranleigh. The atmosphere was buzzing from the moment we arrived — friendly faces, great conversations, and of course, excellent coffee.
Several local residents dropped in to chat with us, alongside representatives from a range of local organisations who were keen to share insights into Cranleigh’s current needs. It was exactly the kind of open, informal networking space that helps people discover where their time and talents could make a real difference.
In the run‑up to the event, we reached out to potential volunteers and local charities, inviting them to pop by, say hello, and explore opportunities to get involved. The response was fantastic. Conversations flowed easily, connections were made, and the sense of community spirit was unmistakable.
Altitude’s hospitality made the morning even more enjoyable — a lovely setting for meaningful conversations about volunteering, community support, and the power of local action.
Events like this remind us how much can happen when people come together over something as simple as a cup of coffee. A huge thank‑you to everyone who joined us, and to Altitude Coffee Bar for hosting such a warm and welcoming drop‑in. |
Mini Conference 2026: Building confidence in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion for you and your organisation |
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Join us for an engaging and interactive half-day Mini Conference exploring how Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) can strengthen organisations, improve services and create more welcoming communities. Led by experienced facilitator Ali Fisher from Plans with Purpose, this practical session will move beyond theory to help participants develop a shared understanding of EDI and identify meaningful actions they can take within their own organisations. Through discussion, activities and reflection, you'll explore key concepts including identity, unconscious bias, inclusive language, allyship and active bystander approaches, leaving with greater confidence and practical tools to support a more inclusive culture. Whether you're new to EDI or looking to build on existing knowledge, this workshop offers a supportive environment to learn alongside colleagues from across the voluntary, community and public sectors. You can find out more information, as well as book tickets, on our website.
Places are limited and advance booking is essential. Registration and refreshments will be available from 9:30am, with the workshop beginning promptly at 10:00am. There will be a 15-minute refreshment break during the morning, and the workshop will conclude at 1:00pm.
Attendees are then invited to stay for optional networking and refreshments until 1:30pm.
For more information, please contact Alice Sheppard and Kate Jones at info@vasws.org.uk. |
Raising a neurodivergent child? This session is for you.
Joe's Buddy Line have an upcoming online workshop that gives parents the tools to support autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, dyspraxic and otherwise neurodivergent children with confidence.
What they will cover: • Understanding your child’s needs • Reducing stress at home • Communicating in ways that build trust • Advocating in school settings • Celebrating strengths, not just challenges
📅6 July ⌚ 7:00–8:30 PM 🎫Free online event |
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The Body Coach Foundation |
The Body Coach Foundation has officially opened the Get Kids Moving Fund — offering £1,000–£10,000 to organisations helping children and young people get active, feel good and build confidence through movement.
If you’re a charity, sports club or community group working with young people, they would love for you to apply. And if you know someone who should see this, please share it with them.
Key dates • Expression of Interest closes: 30 June • Shortlisted organisations: July • Successful organisations announced: August
Let’s help even more children across the UK move more and live healthier, happier lives. |
Surrey Remap: Making Everyday Life Easier Through Custom Engineering Solutions |
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For many people living with disabilities, everyday tasks that most of us take for granted can become significant challenges. When commercial products are unavailable or unsuitable, Surrey Remap steps in to provide practical, life-changing solutions.
What is Surrey Remap?
Surrey Remap is part of the wider UK-based REMAP charity network, which designs and builds custom-made equipment for disabled people. The organization brings together skilled volunteer engineers, technicians, and makers who donate their time and expertise to create devices tailored to an individual's specific needs.
Their mission is simple: to make life easier and more independent for people with disabilities when no suitable commercial solution exists. Transforming Lives Through Innovation
Surrey Remap demonstrates how engineering, creativity, and community spirit can come together to solve problems that standard products cannot address. From adaptive cutlery and educational tools to mobility aids and communication devices, each project is designed around one person’s unique needs.
By creating practical solutions that restore independence and improve quality of life, Surrey Remap continues to make a meaningful difference for disabled people throughout Surrey and beyond. |
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Alcohol Health Champions Supporting Alcohol Awareness Week |
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Alcohol Awareness Week provides an opportunity to start conversations about alcohol, its impact on our health and wellbeing, and the support available to those who may need it.
As part of this year's campaign, Voluntary Action South West Surrey's Alcohol Health Champions Project, delivered in partnership with Surrey County Council, is raising awareness across our local communities through outreach events and a new awareness video.
Alcohol Health Champions are trained volunteers who help to share information about alcohol-related harm, promote healthier choices, and signpost people to local support services. By having informal conversations within their communities, they play an important role in helping people access information and support at an early stage.
To support Alcohol Awareness Week, the project has produced a short video highlighting the impact alcohol can have on our physical and mental health, while encouraging people to reflect on their drinking habits and seek support where needed. |
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Meet the Team During Alcohol Awareness Week
Our Alcohol Health Champions team will be hosting pop-up outreach events where local residents can find out more about alcohol support services, speak with the team, and access information and advice.
Upcoming Events:
Guildford Farmers' Market (High Street) - Wednesday 7th July 2026 Crown Court, Godalming - Friday 10th July 2026
At the Godalming event, the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust Liver Health Check mobile unit will also be available for walk-in appointments, providing an opportunity for people to learn more about their liver health and access advice from healthcare professionals.
Whether you would like information for yourself, a friend, family member or someone you support, we would be delighted to meet you.
We look forward to seeing you there and helping to raise awareness of alcohol-related harm across our communities. |
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Club4 Returns This Summer With Fully‑Funded Activities for Surrey Families |
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Surrey families can look forward to another season of fun, active, and creative opportunities as Club4 returns for Summer 2026. Delivered by Active Surrey on behalf of Surrey County Council, the Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) Programme continues to offer fully‑funded holiday sessions — including meals — for children and young people who receive benefit‑related free school meals. According to the guide, “Each eligible child can access up to 16 activity days of funded activities across the summer.”
Open to children from Reception through Year 11 (including this year’s school leavers), Club4 provides a wide range of experiences designed to keep young people active, engaged, and supported throughout the holidays. Sessions include sports, team games, cooking, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventures, giving children the chance to try new activities, build confidence, and make friends.
This year’s programme also features inclusive SEND sessions, offering dedicated camps and family stay‑and‑play opportunities that are “supportive, welcoming, and full of joy.” Teen‑focused offers return as well, with adventure‑based days out and — for the first time — Summer Holiday Junior Gym Memberships at selected leisure centres.
Families are encouraged to book only the sessions they can attend, as missed places mean another child loses the chance to participate. The guide notes that “every missed space means a funded activity place goes unused.” If plans change, parents are asked to cancel promptly through Eequ so spaces can be reallocated.
Bookings open at 7:30am on Tuesday 30 June, and families can register their interest early to receive a reminder one hour before booking goes live. The guide also highlights upcoming changes to Free School Meal eligibility from September 2026, when transitional protections will end. Schools will contact families directly to complete new eligibility checks. Importantly, children currently receiving benefit‑related FSM will continue to access Club4 throughout the summer.
Parent feedback from previous seasons has been overwhelmingly positive. One parent shared, “My daughter absolutely loved it… She wants to definitely return on the next break!” Another highlighted the impact for young people with additional needs, describing Club4 as “a HUGE benefit to an autistic child with virtually no friends to meet other teens during the school holidays.”
With its blend of fun, friendship, food, and fitness, Club4 promises another memorable summer for Surrey’s children and young people. |
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Oakleaf Enterprise have teamed up with Surrey County Council to conduct research into the Mental Health of individuals within Surrey. With the hope of understanding of the barriers faced by people in our local community and ensuring services genuinely meet people’s needs through ensuring accessibility and relevance.
The questionnaire should take about 10 minutes and all responses are anonymous. This survey will close on 31st July 2026.
If you are in urgent need of any Mental Health Support please dial NHS 111 or in an emergency always 999. |
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Haslemere Biodiversity are looking for a Volunteer Co-ordinator |
Haslemere Biodiversity are seeking someone who thrives on connecting others with meaningful opportunities. The coordinator helps new volunteers “find their place, develop skills and make a difference for nature.” It’s a role that blends gentle administration with relationship‑building, ensuring that every volunteer feels welcomed, supported, and able to contribute to local conservation efforts.
☕ Light commitment, big impact The position requires just 2–3 hours per week, making it accessible for those who want to contribute without taking on a heavy schedule. Coffees and expenses are covered, reinforcing the group’s friendly, community‑centred ethos. The work is based in Haslemere and surrounding areas, where the organisation continues to grow its network of nature‑minded residents.
📬 Getting involved |
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Free meal planning tool launches for Waverley and Guildford residents |
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A new free meal‑planning tool, FiveDinners, is now available to anyone who lives or works in Waverley or Guildford. The service creates personalised weekly meal plans to help households save money, reduce food waste, and eat more healthily.
Councillor Kika Mirylees says the initiative offers a simple, practical way to support local people during the ongoing cost‑of‑living pressures. |
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