Celebrating National Volunteer Week

June 1st - 7th marks Volunteer Week, a week dedicated to celebrating the contribution and amazing work that volunteers provide.

Saying thank you to our volunteers


The dedication, enthusiasm, and energy of our 500+ volunteers helps to make Durham Cathedral such a special place. This week we are celebrating and saying thank you to our volunteers through:

  • An Appreciation Station - situated in the South Naive Aisle, visitors and colleagues are invited to write a message of thanks
  • Prayers of thanksgiving - throughout the week a special prayer of thanksgiving are included in Evensong and Morning Prayer
  • Guide Dog training - there is advice and support with a practical session from The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association
  • Messages from our volunteers - hear first hand from our volunteers as they describe their role and their favourite aspects

You might imagine that all of our volunteers welcome visitors on the door, but our team of over 500 volunteers also includes broderers, flower arrangers, event stewards, and many more. Anyone is welcome to volunteer here at Durham Cathedral. No matter your age, gender, religion, or race, everyone here is welcomed and valued.



Read about a few of our volunteer's experiences and their roles here at Durham Cathedral.

You don't need any experience to volunteer at the cathedral, just a passion and willingness to help.

When you begin your volunteering experience, you'll need to undergo some basic training, including safeguarding and visitor experience training. These sessions will help you in your role and the team will be there to support you along the way.