Pivotal Volunteering Day: Supporting Local Causes Together
Before Christmas, our team stepped away from day to day work and spent the day giving back to the local community. We split into three groups, each supporting a different organisation doing important work across Norfolk. It was a hands-on, rewarding day and a good reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose.
RSPB Strumpshaw Fen
One team headed to RSPB Strumpshaw Fen, a nature reserve managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. The RSPB is a charity dedicated to conserving birds and other wildlife, working across the UK to protect habitats, influence policy and connect people with nature. Their reserves, like Strumpshaw Fen on the River Yare, offer a mix of wetland habitats where visitors can spot birds, enjoy walking trails and learn about local wildlife.
Our team spent the day clearing old reed growth. Although it was hard work, it was hugely rewarding. Leaving dead reeds unchecked creates the perfect surface for trees to take root, which can threaten the rare fenland habitat that so many unique species depend on.
Read more about their mission here.
Grapes Hill Community Garden
Another group headed to Grapes Hill Community Garden at Douro Place. This garden is run by a local charity and community volunteers, and is open to the public free of charge. It provides a welcoming green space in the heart of Norwich, with trees, fruit bushes, herbs, flowers and raised beds that local people can rent to grow their own vegetables. The garden also hosts workshops, events, music sessions and family groups, helping neighbours connect with nature and each other.
Our team rolled up their sleeves to tackle thistles and weeds before planting new shrubs and sowing wildflower seeds. A huge thank you to Volunteering Norfolk for making this connection happen.
Read more about their mission here.
Big C Donation Centre, Wymondham
Meanwhile, the third group spent the day at the Big C Donation Centre in Wymondham. Big C is a local, people-first charity that provides support to anyone affected by cancer in Norfolk and North Suffolk, from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. Their services include support centres, counselling, wellbeing activities, advice services and fundraising events, all aimed at helping people cope with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer.
At the donation centre, our team sorted and quality-checked donated clothing. By the end of the day, we had worked through hundreds of garments ready to be distributed to Big C charity shops across the region, helping raise funds that go directly back into the charity’s support services.
Read more about their mission here.
A Day That Made a Difference
It was a busy, meaningful day all round. Volunteering gave us the chance to support organisations doing important work locally, from protecting nature to cultivating community spaces and supporting people facing life’s toughest challenges.
A few hours of teamwork can make a genuine difference, and we’re proud of the effort everyone put in.
We’re already looking forward to future opportunities to get involved and support causes that matter to our community.