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City Volunteers

Be a part of what’s next for Sunderland

Sunderland is changing fast – new venues, bold events, and big ideas are reshaping our city. From the new bridge linking the city centre to the Sheepfolds, to vibrant festivals and markets, there’s a real energy, buzz and excitement about what’s happening here.

And we need you to be part of it.

Why become a volunteer?

Receive high quality training

Exclusive volunteer opportunities

Meet new people in the volunteer network

Be a part of Sunderland's thriving cultural scene

An older man in a black and red striped sweater stands laughing next to a large white banner. A young woman crouches down and draws on the banner, filling in the outline of a face with an orange marker. The banner has large text that says 'Art Festival Sunderland in the frame' and 'Capture your festival experience on our interactive canvas'.
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A group of six people stand on a beach facing the camera. One person in the middle is wearing a bright yellow towel-robe and smiling at the camera. Another person in the foreground has their back to the camera and is gesturing with their hands. In the background, a structure covered in colourful ribbons is visible on the sand.
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A group of people are gathered around a table in a brightly lit indoor space, decorating small cakes. Two children in white and green football tops are focused on placing toppings on the cakes. Two adults stand behind them, watching.
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A group of people are on a guided tour in an art gallery. One person, a tour guide, is standing in front of two large paintings and pointing towards the central one, which shows a busy port scene. Three other people are listening. The paintings are in ornate gold frames.
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A group of people are standing outside on a pavement next to a large, curved building with glass walls. Most of the people are seen from behind and are wearing dark sportswear. They are gathered in a small circle, listening to a person in the middle who is talking.
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Three people are standing at a table in a dark room with blue lighting. The person in the middle is wearing a dark top and has colourful face paint. They are holding small papers. The person on the right is looking down and holding a green bottle.
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A person in a green volunteer hoodie and sunglasses stands on the edge of a football pitch. They are holding a sign that says 'Foundation of Light, the world at your feet'. Another person is visible behind them, holding up a red sign that says '1 in 3 children in Sunderland is living in poverty.' The stands are full of spectators.
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City Volunteers is a new way to get involved in Sunderland’s transformation. Apply once, take part in free, high-quality training, and you’ll join a network of volunteers who get exclusive opportunities direct from partners across the city.

You choose the events that fit your time and interests – from the city’s big moments like the Keel Square fireworks to music festivals, markets, sporting events and more.

We’re looking for people who love Sunderland – who are kind, curious, welcoming and proud of where they’re from, or proud to call it home. Whether you’ve lived here forever or just arrived, whether you’ve volunteered before or not – everyone’s welcome.

You’ll gain new skills, meet brilliant people, and be part of big moments in Sunderland’s cultural life.

City Volunteers Application Form
A person with bright red, short, curly hair is smiling and sitting on a mobility scooter. They are in the middle of a crowd of people. In the background, there is a colourful painted mural that includes the word

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City Volunteers More Information
A young person in a red and white football kit with the number 7 is running low to the ground on an indoor sports court. A tall adult in a green volunteer t-shirt stands behind them, watching. Other people and signage for

More information

City Volunteers More Information
A parade on a sunny street with a group of people playing drums and brass instruments. Many people are wearing brightly coloured clothing and paper crowns. One person in a yellow safety vest and glasses is smiling at the camera while holding a large white flag on a pole.

Our Partners

City Volunteers is led by Sunderland Culture in partnership with Sunderland Business Improvement Districts (BID), Foundation of Light and Culture House, and supported by North East Combined Authority.

Culture House Sunderland
North East Combined Authority logo