Tower Hamlets has marked Volunteers’ Week (1–7 June) by celebrating the thousands of residents who give their time to support local communities - and by encouraging even more people to get involved.
Volunteer Centre Tower Hamlets (VCTH) is currently advertising over 70 volunteering opportunities, offering roles for all interests, ages and experience levels.
Many positions require no previous experience and can be easily fitted around work, study or caring commitments.
Lutfur Rahman, Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets said:
“Every act of volunteering, no matter how small, helps build a stronger, kinder Tower Hamlets.
“Our volunteers show what is possible when people come together with a shared purpose.
“I want to thank each and every one of them.”
Cllr Maium Talukdar, Deputy Mayor, visited Idea Store Whitechapel to encourage residents to take up volunteering opportunities.
Idea Store offers a variety of volunteering opportunities for adults and young people (including Duke of Edinburgh Awards).
Roles include running weekly "Get Online" digital drop-in sessions, assisting with children's activities, supporting winter Warm Hubs, and archiving.
To volunteer with Idea Store, you must either live or work in Tower Hamlets, attend a local school or be enrolled with Idea Store Learning.
Cllr Talukdar, Cabinet Member for Tackling Inequality and the Cost of Living, Improving Customer Services and Voluntary Sector Engagement said:
“Volunteering is a powerful way to build skills, gain confidence and connect with our community, while supporting the organisations that deliver vital services every day.
“Their commitment makes a real and lasting difference to people across Tower Hamlets.”
Volunteer Centre Tower Hamlets (VCTH) plays a central role in the borough’s volunteering ecosystem — recruiting and supporting volunteers.
Most local volunteers are recruited through VCTH, which then matches them with community organisations in need of support.
Catherine Bavage, Chief Executive of Volunteer Centre Tower Hamlets, said:
“Each year thousands of Tower Hamlets residents volunteer in our communities.
“They support local charities and community groups to provide vital services to the most vulnerable adults and children who live here.
“Volunteers' Week is a time to thank and recognise the amazing contributions volunteers make.
“Without your time, skills and compassion many services would simply grind to a halt.
“Whether you have volunteered once, or once a week, we are so grateful for your help.
If you have not volunteered yet, now is the perfect time to take that first step.
Residents interested in volunteering can explore current opportunities at www.vcth.org.uk/volunteering-in-tower-hamlets/
www.ideastore.co.uk/our-services/volunteering
Posted on Friday 5th June 2026