This National Volunteers’ Week, from 2nd to 8th June, cancer charity Walk the Walk is honouring the 31,000 volunteers who have been instrumental in staging its iconic MoonWalk events over the past three decades. These vibrant night-time walks, held annually in London and Edinburgh, raise vital funds to support those living with breast and other cancers. The charity is extending a heartfelt thank you to its volunteers, described as the backbone and beating heart of The MoonWalks, for their unwavering dedication.
Every year, hundreds of volunteers across the UK donate their time to ensure The MoonWalk London and The MoonWalk Scotland run seamlessly. These overnight events see thousands of participants, donning decorated bras or colourful bra T-shirts, walk 13.1 or 26.2 miles through city streets to raise money for cancer support and research. In 2025, The MoonWalk Scotland is scheduled for Saturday 6th September at Holyrood Park in Edinburgh, while The MoonWalk London will take place on Saturday 16th May 2026 at Clapham Common. Volunteers play a critical role in creating a supportive and celebratory atmosphere, cheering walkers and managing logistics through the night.
Karen White from Hitchin, who volunteers as a cycle marshal at The MoonWalk London alongside her husband Gareth, shared her passion for the cause: “Volunteering is not just about giving up your time, it’s about making a difference to those who need it. I love to Volunteer, because it reminds me that even my small actions can spark big change and where better than at the iconic MoonWalk! There’s simply nothing like and I’m very proud to play my part.” Her words reflect the profound impact volunteering has, both for the charity and the volunteers themselves.
Similarly, Cathie Purves from Edinburgh, a dedicated volunteer at The MoonWalk Scotland since 2007, spoke of the joy and camaraderie the event brings: “I would recommend Volunteering to everyone. Donating my time every year at The MoonWalk Scotland is my way of giving something back and I always have such fun, meeting up again with the many friends I’ve made over the years. For anyone thinking of joining Walk the Walk as a Volunteer at this year’s MoonWalk, I’d say just do it. It’s one night of your life and you’ll always get so much more out of it that you’ve put in.” Her long-term commitment highlights the rewarding nature of volunteering with Walk the Walk.
The charity offers a variety of volunteer roles to suit different skills and preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. These include:
- Route marshal. Volunteers guide walkers along the route, ensuring safety and providing encouragement at designated zones.
- Cyclist. Cyclists offer rapid response support, covering over 30 miles to assist walkers and address non-medical queries.
- Driver. Drivers transport route marshals and support retired walkers, requiring a full, clean licence and confidence navigating city streets.
- Directional team. These volunteers direct walkers to the MoonWalk Arena, offering a warm welcome with smiles and enthusiasm.
- Entrance gate/start line. Volunteers work with security to manage queues and distribute wristbands for smooth event entry.
- Service stations. These teams hand out water, fruit, and snacks, keeping walkers energised and managing station cleanliness.
- Clean and recycling. Volunteers help maintain the event site, contributing to the charity’s impressive 98% waste recycling rate.
Walk the Walk encourages anyone interested to register as a volunteer for The MoonWalk Scotland on 6th September 2025 or The MoonWalk London on 16th May 2026. Registration is open online, where prospective volunteers can find detailed role descriptions and sign-up forms. The charity also provides a Volunteer Handbook and a Virtual Volunteer Webinar to prepare participants, ensuring they feel supported and informed.
Volunteering with Walk the Walk not only supports a vital cause but also fosters lasting memories and connections. As National Volunteers’ Week celebrates the power of giving back, Walk the Walk invites new and returning volunteers to join its mission to unite against cancer, one step at a time.
