British Dressage marks Volunteers’ Week 2025

Volunteers’ Week returns this year after reaching its 40th anniversary last year. From 2 - 8 June 2025, British Dressage will join thousands of charities and voluntary organisations recognising the contribution volunteers make across the UK.  

Running every year since 1984, the week provides a crucial opportunity to thank volunteers and recognise the value of their time, passion and skills. The campaign highlights the diversity and unity of volunteer work across the UK.

Many will take part in awards ceremonies, coffee mornings and days out during the week. The celebrations aim to foster connections between national organisations and grassroots groups, celebrating the spirit of volunteering that enriches communities each year.

This Volunteers’ Week we will be celebrating our volunteers, by raising awareness of some outstanding contributions to our local communities, centres and events, as well as shining a light on how you can look to get involved and support the sport you love through volunteering. 

For British Dressage, taking part in volunteering activity can range from those speaking for numerous roles as Regional Representatives and BD committee members, to writers, runners, score collectors, event supporters and all in between. It’s a great way to give back to the sport, enjoy an equestrian-packed day out, add to your CV, and most importantly - have fun and meet like-minded members. We’re always happy to welcome new volunteers, and the channels of communication are open via the Training and Education team, or your local DO for opportunities in your area.   

Holly Hart, BD Regional & Volunteer Manager, commented on the value of the vast network of volunteers supporting affiliated activity: “Our sport wouldn’t exist without the dedication and support of our amazing volunteers. While we cannot thank them enough for all they do, we are delighted to be able to showcase a selection of their activity and endeavour during Volunteers’ Week. By giving their time and expertise they enhance the experience for all riders, whether a first-time competitor or a seasoned professional, ensuring the sport continues to thrive with the welfare of horse and rider at its core.  

“Volunteering is a great way to get involved in the sport we all love, developing invaluable skills and making friends for life along the way. And, best of all, there is a role to suit anyone, regardless of their availability, knowledge, and interests – the BD family welcomes everyone with open arms!” 

 Volunteers’ Week is led by the UK Volunteering Forum, a partnership between Volunteer Scotland, the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO), the Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) and Volunteer Now in Northern Ireland.  

 The UK Volunteering Forum said: “Volunteers bring a richness to organisations across the country. There is no better time to recognise the diversity of our volunteers and celebrate the difference that volunteering makes than during Volunteers’ Week. Without volunteers many charities just simply could not function, with so many people giving up their time and going above and beyond. The week is a chance for all of us to show just how vital they are to charities and communities everywhere.”