Volunteering at Stretford Public Hall: a year of growth

Today we publish our volunteering annual report, taking a look back over the last year at how we involve volunteers to understand what are we doing well and what could be improved.

A bigger, stronger volunteer team

This year 118 volunteers contributed their time, including 38 new starters and 21 long‑serving volunteers who’ve been with us for over five years. Induction and exit feedback remained overwhelmingly positive, with volunteers praising the warm welcome, inclusive atmosphere and variety of roles.

More hours, more activity

Volunteers gave over 5,400 hours — a 28% increase on last year.
An average of 65 volunteers were active each month, supporting:

• 4,600 people through our regular community activities such as Together Tuesdays and Fish & Chip Fridays. Volunteers also delivered practical support to vulnerable residents, from emergency deliveries to advocacy and digital help.
• A packed events programme of 53 events attended by over 12,400 people! Running the bar, welcoming guests on the front door, stewarding, overseeing sound tech and helping us deliver our busiest and most diverse events calendar yet.

Celebration and recognition

This year saw:

• A joyful Volunteers’ Week social
• Christmas get together for Together Tuesday volunteers
• The Gardening Club achieving RHS Level 5 Outstanding
• The Repair Café’s first birthday
• The Heritage Group’s successful Heritage Open Day

A new Volunteer Awards Scheme launched in November 2025.

“I feel proud to be involved in an organisation which is so positive and embraces members of the community who might not always feel included.”

“I feel like I’m giving back to the community by volunteering and that makes me feel like my time is being spent doing good and maybe making things better for the public.”

“Everyone has been very welcoming and friendly. The kind, positive atmosphere is easily the hall’s greatest strength. Its a place I want to be.”

A huge thank you to every volunteer who has contributed their time, skills and kindness this year. You continue to make Stretford Public Hall a welcoming, creative and community‑powered space for all.

Download our volunteering annual report to learn more about the impact our volunteers have and the actions we’re going to take in response to their feedback.

If you’d like to find out more about volunteering at Stretford Public Hall, or would like support to get into volunteering across Stretford, get in touch with our Kaf Bays, our Volunteer Coordinator – more details on our website.