Dunstable’s volunteering groups
As a volunteer, you can make a difference in your community. It’s a great way to give back, meet new people, and build meaningful connections.
Dunstable In Bloom
Dunstable in Bloom is an established group of volunteers that were founded in 2009. The group has since achieved numerous gold awards from Anglia in Bloom. The group were chosen by Anglia in Bloom to represent the Anglia region in the RHS Britain in Bloom campaign for 2022. A gold award was achieved, together with the award for Best Large Town in the UK.
There are opportunities to help in gardening projects on a regular and one-off basis. We have various activities throughout the year, including maintenance of beds and borders and seasonal floral displays. Opportunities may also be available to assist with Priory Gardens Physic border.
It’s a chance to meet new people, and to participate in gardening tasks that will contribute to Dunstable in Bloom’s regional and national ‘RHS In Bloom’ campaigns.
Date and time
Various dates and times as projects require
Accessibility
Access suitable for different abilities, but please note tasks will include working outdoors throughout the year.
What to bring
Tools are provided. All tasks are outdoors throughout the year. Therefore, appropriate clothing for seasonal weather will be required. The following items are recommended: Stout protective footwear and gardening clothes that you do not mind getting muddy, waterproof outerwear, sunhat, water bottle, sunscreen. Gardening gloves can be provided if needed.
Please email john.crawley@dunstable.gov.uk if you would like to be part of Dunstable in Bloom
Friends of Dunstable Cemetery
Dunstable Cemetery is a Green Flag Award Winning Cemetery which was first open for public burials in 1861. The Cemetery has grown over the years and has a rich history. The older part of the cemetery is the last resting place of some notable local people. Along with some beautiful old memorial stones the cemetery is also rich in biodiversity; over 25 species of birds have been recorded on the site.
The Friends are a small but friendly group of people who enjoy coming together for volunteer workdays. The group contributes towards the high standards of upkeep at the cemetery and provide extra care for graves when loved ones are no longer able to attend.
In future the group would like to fundraise to repair some of the older memorials and research and share some of the life and family stories of those buried in the cemetery.
Date and time
The Friends meet on the the first and third Thursday of the month from 10 am to 12 noon.
Accessibility
Access can be suitable for different abilities, but please note parts of the cemetery are uneven under foot, and tasks will include working outdoors throughout the year.
Contact
Please contact Mary Dobbs by calling 01582 891428 or email cemetery@dunstable.gov.uk if you would like to become a Friend of Dunstable Cemetery.
Incredible Edible
All are welcome at the Incredible Edible Garden in Dunstable, which was set up and continues to be maintained by a friendly group of residents in Katherine Drive. Join them for various tasks on the first Saturday of the month, or to enjoy the garden at other times. Email in advance to let them know you plan to come along.
For each session there is a to-do list, which could include the cultivation of fruit and vegetables, maintenance of the beds, weeding, etc. The group welcomes new people and new ideas – their slogan is “if you eat, you’re in!”
Another of the mottos in the garden is “Believe in the power of small actions” – any help you can provide is very welcome.
Date and time
First Saturday of the month, 1 pm to 3 pm, plus a watering rota during dry spells
Accessibility
There are some dedicated wheelchair accessible beds and potting table.
What to bring
Please bring along work gloves and tools
Contact
Please email: awtimson@ntlworld.com if you would like to be join Incredible Edible.
Litter Picking Lending Scheme
Our Litter Pick Lending Scheme is a great way for individuals, families, schools, and community groups to help keep Dunstable clean and green! We provide all the essential equipment, including litter pickers, bags, and high-visibility vests, so you can safely collect litter in your chosen area. Whether you’re looking to do a one-time clean-up or make it a regular activity, we’d love to support your efforts. If you’d like to get involved or work in partnership with us, give us a call at 01582 891434 or drop us an email at communities@dunstable.gov.uk
Date and time
Dates and fixed times of up to two hours per event throughout spring and summer, at various locations throughout the five wards in Dunstable
Accessibility
Access suitable for different abilities. Locations will vary. A basic level of physical fitness is required to participate in litter picking.
What to bring
Litter picking tools and gloves are provided. Events are all outdoors. Therefore, appropriate clothing for seasonal weather will be required. The following items are recommended: Stout protective footwear and old clothing that you do not mind getting dirty. For hot weather we recommend a sun hat, water bottle, and sunscreen.
Facilities
No facilities
Contact
Dunstable Parks & Greenspace Volunteers
Here’s a chance to make a difference to the environment of Dunstable, by helping to improve the town’s green spaces. Tasks could include general gardening tasks such as clearance of soft vegetation, hand weeding, planting, pruning, and watering. This is also a good opportunity to meet new people and make a positive difference to Dunstable.
Date and time
Various dates and times as projects require
Accessibility
Access suitable for different abilities, but please note tasks will include working outdoors throughout the year.
What to bring
Tools are provided. All tasks are outdoors throughout the year. Therefore, appropriate clothing for seasonal weather will be required. The following items are recommended: Stout protective footwear and gardening clothes that you do not mind getting muddy, waterproof outerwear, sun hat, water bottle, sunscreen. Gardening gloves can be provided if needed.
Facilities
Facilities available depends on the location.
Contact
katherine.doyle@dunstable.gov.uk
Over 55s Breakfast Club
Every Tuesday 9.30 am to 11 am at Bennett’s Café and Community Hub
Make a difference in your community by volunteering at the Over 55s Breakfast Club! We provide a welcoming space where older adults can enjoy a range of breakfast options, friendly conversation, and engaging activities—helping to reduce isolation and build social connections.
As a volunteer, you can:
Help serve breakfast and chat with members
Organise activities and assist with events
Welcome new members and create a friendly atmosphere
Support guest speakers and special sessions
Details for breakfast club
Date and time
Tuesday 10 am to 12 noon
Accessibility
Access suitable for different abilities
Facilities
Toilets
Parking
Contact
01582 891434
Over 55s coffee and Chat
Our Coffee and Chat events are friendly meet-ups for residents aged 55 and over who live in Dunstable. These gatherings take place at various venues around the town and offer a great opportunity to make new friends, enjoy a chat, and connect with organisations that provide support and advice for older members of the community.
The sessions are held once a month, and we are currently looking for volunteers to help oversee their smooth running. Volunteers will receive full induction and ongoing support from Dunstable Town Council officers, particularly during the first few months. All refreshments are provided and covered by Dunstable Town Council.
If you’re interested in getting involved or would like more information, please contact:
Gill Peck, Youth and Community Manager
gill.peck@dunstable.gov.uk
This volunteering opportunity is subject to satisfactory references, a DBS check, and completion of safeguarding training.
