Volunteers thanked at FE Big Lunch  

Walsall College’s FE Big Lunch 2026 saw local volunteers recognised for their contribution to the community and the meaningful impact of their kind efforts.

12 college students and 18 local people who volunteer for charity, public sector organisations and social enterprises were presented with thank you certificates by the college’s Chair of Governors, David Wheeler and enjoyed a networking afternoon tea.

The FE Big Lunch was launched in 2023 to coincide with the Coronation of King Charles III and is now hosted annually by colleges across the region in the form of lunches, afternoon teas and picnics.  The aim is to celebrate the work of local volunteers and community organisations who help make a difference to peoples’ lives.

Principal and Chief Executive, Jatinder Sharma CBE DL was delighted to congratulate the volunteers.

“The college has held different FE Big Lunches over the last few years, from health and social care students inviting care home residents to the college to our community learning team hosting a get together at Pleck Library.  This year we were keen to bring together unsung heroes – students and local people – whose time, energy and compassion means so much to others.”

Jatinder Sharma continued: “The importance of their voluntary work cannot be emphasised highly enough. Through the support, guidance and friendship they offer, they make a lasting difference to individuals, organisations and the wider community.

“This is the college’s way of saying, ‘We see you, and thank you for all that you do’.”

Holly was among those from the college receiving a certificate at the FE Big Lunch.

The travel and tourism student leads annual children’s summer camps and holiday activities, volunteers for Birmingham Hospice, and Street Teams among others.  Through her mini enterprise, beadedbyholly she also makes and sells bracelets, raising money for the charity, Smile for Joel.

She said: “It feels incredibly rewarding to be able to meet other people, take part in different projects and build on my personal skills with the right support around me, as well as making a positive difference in the world.  Volunteering opens such a wide variety of different opportunities for everyone.”

Earnest who volunteers as a recovery worker with Change Grow Live (CGL) Walsall was also pleased to be at the event.

He said: “I was motivated to volunteer with CGL by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people facing challenges relating to substance misuse, recovery, and social reintegration.

“My role is a constant reminder that positive change is always possible when people are given the right support and opportunities.

“The experience has also reinforced my belief in the value of lifelong learning and community engagement.

“My experience with CGL has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my professional and personal life.”

Other organisations whose volunteers were recognised included Walsall Works, whg, Let’s Talk Hub, Community Matters, One Walsall, Lucy’s Pantry and Manor Farm Community Association.