Gateshead Volunteer Recruitment Fair Returns for 2026

The Gateshead Volunteer Recruitment Fair will return on Tuesday 13 October 2026, bringing together local charities, community groups and voluntary organisations from across the borough. 

Organised by Gateshead Volunteer Centre, powered by Connected Voice, the event will take place at Gateshead Leisure Centre from 10.00 to 13:00. 

Building on the success of our inaugural fair in 2025, which welcomed more than 100 visitors, this year's event will provide another opportunity for residents to discover the wide range of volunteering opportunities available locally.

Around 25-30 organisations will be attending, showcasing ways people can get involved in causes and activities that matter to them and their communities.

Volunteering can help people develop skills, build confidence, meet new people and make a positive difference within Gateshead. Why not bring a group from the community you work in to the event? 

Whether someone is volunteering for the first time or looking for a new opportunity, the fair offers a welcoming environment to learn more about local organisations and the impact they make every day. 

Full list of organisations: 

• Birtley Community Pool -  Help improve the health and wellbeing of Birtley residents through sport. 
• Caregivers Connected Gateshead - Support unpaid carers to feel connected, recognised and empowered in their caring role.
• Citizens Advice Gateshead - Make a real difference by ensuring local people can access the advice and support they need to move forward.
• FareShare North East - Be part of the fight against food waste and food poverty across the North East.
• Feeding Families - Be involved in the distribution of food parcels for local families experiencing food poverty. 
• Felling Volunteer Library - Keep a valued community resource thriving for local readers, learners and families.
• Gateshead Community Organisation - Contribute to stronger, more connected communities across Gateshead.
• Gateshead Council - Play a role in projects that improve local places, services, spaces and community life.
• Gateshead Foodbank - Ensure people facing food poverty are given the support they need. 
• Gateshead Leisure Centre - Offer time to support the health and wellbeing of residents in Central Gateshead. 
• GoodGym - Combine fitness with community action to improve lives and strengthen neighbourhoods.
• HostNation - Welcome refugees and asylum seekers into the community through friendship and connection.
• MCR Pathways - Inspire young people to build confidence, raise aspirations and fulfil their potential.
• Marie Curie Companions at Home - Bring and promote companionship and emotional support to people at the end of life.
• NEUK Community Pathways Trust - Support individuals to overcome barriers, find community and achieve positive life outcomes.
• Papyrus - Promote hope, awareness and suicide prevention for young people.
• Peer Talk - Create safe spaces where people experiencing depression can find understanding and support.
• Royal Voluntary Service - Reduce loneliness and strengthen communities through person-centred support.
• Sense Ability Matters - Champion inclusion and opportunity for people with disabilities and additional needs.
• Solar Seed Co-op - Drive community-led action on climate change and renewable energy.
• St Oswald's Hospice - Supporting hospice care for people with life-limiting conditions and their families.
• The Comfrey Project - Foster belonging, wellbeing and opportunity for refugees and asylum seekers through gardening.
• The Whinnies Community Garden - Nurture wellbeing, nature and community through shared outdoor spaces.
• Triangular CIO - Provide advocacy and wellbeing support for refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. 
• Veterans at Ease - Be part of a growing mission to support the wellbeing and quality of life of veterans and their families.
• Young Enterprise - Equip young people with the skills, confidence and experience needed for the future.
• Your Voice Counts - Ensure people with learning disabilities and autism have a strong voice in their communities and lives.