Event Volunteer - Big Hike Suffolk & Essex - 18th July 2026

About the role  

People across the UK have committed to take big steps to beat cancer, but they can’t cross the finish line without your help. From giving directions and motivational pep talks, to making coffees and handing out medals, our Hike Experience Volunteers make our events the best they can be. This year’s Big Hike is set to make over £2million for life-saving research. Whether you’re going solo, bringing a friend or are part of a larger group, your support powers our events and helps make progress possible. 

What you’ll be doing   

We have many volunteering roles on offer at our events. We’ll provide a full briefing when you arrive, so you feel confident and excited to get stuck in. No matter what role you do, you’ll know you’re making a huge difference to those taking part in our amazing events. 

As a Hike Experience Volunteer, you’ll be helping us make our hikers’ day the best that it can be. You’ll be the friendly face that our hikers see at the start, finish or at a pit-stop. You’ll be handing out refreshments, offering words of encouragement and cheering our hikers on. You could also be handing out that all important medal at the finish and helping participants celebrate their great achievement. 

The kind of person we’re looking for 

We’re on the lookout for individuals and groups who are: 

• Engaging, friendly and keen to make sure everyone has a brilliant day.  

• Flexible and willing to get stuck in and help. 

• Team players - you’ll be joining a lovely bunch of other volunteers! 

But mainly those who can bring their energy, smiles and passion to help us beat cancer together! 

Please note:  

• We are only able to accept volunteers aged 16 years or above at our Big Hike events. 

• You must be living in the UK in order to volunteer at one of our events.   

• We ask all applicants to disclose to us, in confidence, any unspent criminal convictions.  

Next steps and what to expect 

Where and when 

• Our Big Hike events take place on weekends throughout the summer, all over the UK.   

• You can join us at one or more of our events, at locations that work for you.   

• You can choose a time that suits you! Shifts are usually available between 6am – 7.30pm, and the average shift time is around 5-6 hours. 

How we’ll look after you  

We want you to have the best experience at our events and ensure you get the most out of your volunteering experience. We will:  

• Be in contact in the lead up to the day so you know what to expect, what to bring and to answer any questions you might have 

• Give you a full briefing on arrival  

• Support and guide you throughout the day  

• Provide meals and snacks as appropriate  

• Cover your travel and other reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, as agreed with your Event Manager 

Why volunteer for Cancer Research UK  

What you’ll gain 

As well as beating cancer, volunteering with us has a host of benefits for you too, including:   

• Gaining skills and experience in the events and charity sector. 

• Meeting like-minded people and having fun!  

• Making a difference in your community and helping drive progress for people affected by cancer.  

Why we need you  

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer. And so far, we’ve made incredible progress – in the last 50 years, we’ve helped to double cancer survival in the UK. To make these advances possible, we rely on our community of brilliant volunteers, who give their time to help fund research that saves lives.  

By volunteering, you’re helping to bring us closer to a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer.  

How to apply 

Click on the ‘Sign up to volunteer’ link at the top of the page, fill out the form and we’ll be in touch.    

At Cancer Research UK we know that having a diverse volunteer community will help us to beat cancer. We're committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We will happily consider making any reasonable adjustments to support volunteer applications from people with a disability or health condition.  

Whether you’re a first-time volunteer or a seasoned veteran, we’d love for you to join us!   

If you have any questions about becoming a volunteer, please email volunteering@cancer.org.uk. Or, you may find the answer listed in our FAQs.