Volunteer Update - December 2025
Deafblind UK Volunteer
Update - December 2025
Welcome to your Volunteers’ Update, designed to provide you with information and updates to support you in your role!
If you have any feedback about this newsletter, or if there is anything specific that you would like to read about then please contact our Volunteering Team on 01733 973 466 or email volunteering@deafblind.org.uk.
As we approach the end of another incredible year, we want to take a moment to celebrate everything we’ve achieved together. Whichever volunteer role you have, your dedication, energy, and generosity have made a real difference, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the time and passion you’ve shared. It's been a busy year for Deafblind UK in so many ways. Opening a new research centre at Birmingham City University, expanding our charity shop locations across East Anglia and welcoming volunteers to new roles such as our Deafblind UK advisory group. This newsletter is a chance to reflect on the highlights and look ahead to some exciting opportunities coming in the new year.
Thank you for being the heart of our community—we couldn’t do it without you and we wish you all the best for the upcoming season and new year.
Could you face the flames for Deafblind UK? 
It's time to get all fired up for the return of the Deafblind UK Firewalk; taking place in two fantastic locations:
26 March- St Martin-in-the-fields, London
27 March- Peterborough Cathedral
Conquer the coals in the 'hottest, shortest sponsored walk in the world' to support people affected by sight and hearing loss.
Early bird entry for this bucket list experience is just £19!
But hurry, places are limited to just 100 brave soles per location, so early registration is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Deafblind UK Winter Appeal
Our seasonal fundraising appeal has recently launched featuring the story of Deafblind UK member Barbara from Essex. The campaign aims to highlight the additional practical and emotional challenges faced by people with deafblindness throughout the darker months, and how Deafblind UK’s Winter Wellness service is helping thousands to stay connected with their communities and keep spirits high this winter. We're delighted that, following support from Deafblind UK, Barbara will be joining our volunteer team!
You can watch Barbara's story here and read more about our Winter Appeal on our website: www.deafblind.org.uk/winter-appeal
Please help us to spread the word about the campaign wherever you can!
Befriending Drop In 
Befriending Officer, Raine, reports
'At our October Befriending Drop-In, we were delighted to welcome Amanda. She shared all about the amazing support the Helpline offers and introduced this year’s Winter Wellness service, which will run right through to the end of February 2026.
Alongside the special Christmas and Boxing Day calls and extended phone line hours, Deafblind UK has added even more ways to stay connected and supported this winter. These include Winter Befriending, phone and video groups, fun quizzes, and even uplifting text messages to help our members through these darker months.'
Raine's next session will take place on Tuesday 16 December 2-3pm on zoom where Raine will be joined by James McVicker for a seasonal introduction to BSL! These sessions are a great way to meet your fellow volunteers and a chance to feedback and share in a group setting. To register for this session, simply click here and you will receive joining details.
Christmas Closure Information
As we are quickly approaching the festive season, plesae be aware of our opening hours over the holiday period. The office closes on the 24th December and reopens on Friday 2nd January. This year, the helpline will be open from 10am-4pm on the 29th, 30th and 31st December and the team are available to you if you need to call in. The number is 0800 132320.
Outside of these times, please use the out of office number should you need to seek advice on an emergency only. The out of office number is: 01733 325353
We understand that this time of year can be difficult for some of our members so here are some useful numbers you can direct them to if necessary.
Samaritans for confidential emotional support - call 116 123
Mind (except Christmas day and boxing day) - call 0300 102 1234
Shout feeling low, anxious, worried, lonely, overwhelmed, suicidal (24/7 text service). Text Shout to 85258
SANEline - emotional support - call 0300 304 7000 (4pm to 10pm) every day of the year, particularly in a crisis moment.
C.A.L.L. - Wales listening and support service 24/7 - call 0800 132737
NHS 111 offers urgent mental health support
Silverline for people 55+ feeling lonely or isolated, call for a chat. 0800 470 80 90 (24/7)
Annual volunteer survey
Our Volunteer Survey will be going out in early January and we are keen to get your views on your volunteering experience and what you’d like to see in future in terms of training and information resources. Please take a few minutes to complete this if you can. If you would like to complete next year's survey and have not consented to receive this, then please let us know by emailing volunteering@deafblind.org.uk.
