04/06/2026
🌟 Volunteers' Week 2026 🌟
This Volunteers' Week, we want to shine a light on the incredible people who make Coldingham Brave Bayers what it is.
Behind every swim, wellbeing session, community event, fundraiser and water safety initiative is a team of volunteers giving their time, energy, skills and kindness to support others.
From setting up and packing away, maintaining equipment and the shed, baking hundreds of cakes, making teas and coffees, welcoming new faces, supporting participants, helping with social media, giving TV and radio interviews, writing funding applications, coordinating events and serving as directors — every contribution matters.
But volunteering isn't just about the things people see.
It's the conversations about Coldingham Brave Bayers when we're not in the room. It's sharing our posts on social media, recommending us to a friend who might benefit, encouraging someone to take that first step through the door, talking about the impact of our work in the community, and being an ambassador for our values wherever you go.
It's checking in on someone who hasn't been to a session for a while, celebrating another person's achievement, offering a lift, lending a hand, or simply creating a welcoming smile on a difficult day.
These small acts create a ripple effect that reaches much further than any of us can measure.
One of our volunteers, Amy, shares what volunteering means to her:
*"Volunteering with Coldingham Brave Bayers is my way of giving something back to a community that has benefited me so much. Being part of the group has had a hugely positive impact on my life, helping me build confidence, connecting with people and enjoy the benefits of spending time outdoors.*
"Through my volunteering, I have also had access to valuable training and development opportunities, allowing me to learn new skills and grow both personally and professionally. Volunteering enables me to support others while contributing to a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages wellbeing, connection, personal achievement, whilst having fun and staying safe! 🛟
It is rewarding to play a role in helping others experience the same sense of belonging, confidence, and enjoyment that I have gained from being part of the Brave Bayers community."
Amy's story reflects the experience of so many within our community. Volunteering is not just about giving back — it's about growing in confidence, learning new skills, building friendships and creating opportunities for others.
We've watched volunteers and participants alike find their voice, grow in confidence, develop new skills, take on leadership roles, speak on radio and television, lead activities, support others and achieve things they never thought possible.
Whether you've volunteered for one event or have been with us since the beginning, thank you. Your time creates ripples that reach far beyond the bay, helping people improve their wellbeing, build resilience, feel connected and find a sense of belonging.
Without volunteers, there is no village. Without a village, there is no community.
From all of us at Coldingham Brave Bayers — thank you for every cake baked, every chair lifted, every conversation shared, every social media post liked and shared, every encouraging word spoken, and every hour given in service of others. We see you, we hear you, and we appreciate you. 💙🌊
