Our Advice Line

Update 26 September - 16.00 :We are currently experiencing technical difficulties with our telephone system, which means we can only handle a limited number of calls at the same time. This may mean your call connects to our answerphone. Please leave a message and our team will call you back as quickly as they can. We are working closely with our provider to resolve this issue and apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Volunteer Your Time

Volunteer at the Christmas Tree Collection

We need your help to collect thousands of christmas trees this January!

VOLUNTEER

We’re delighted to announce that our beloved Christmas Tree Collection is back for its fifth year – and it’s growing stronger than ever! After a record-breaking 2025 collection that saw more than 2,000 trees collected and over £32,000 raised, we’re gearing up for another tree-mendous weekend of community spirit, sustainability, and support for local hospice care.

This January, we’re once again teaming up with Children’s Hospice South West to offer a simple, eco-friendly way to recycle your real Christmas tree – all while raising vital funds to support people across Somerset living with life-limiting illness.

 

Location: Various areas across Somerset

Date: Friday 9 – Sunday 11 January 2026, mop-up sessions on Thursday 15 & Friday 16 January 2026

Times: Shifts between 8am and 4pm

Roles: Driving a van (if you’re a designated driver); navigating routes and supporting the driver with directions and logistics; lifting and moving trees safely on and off the van.

Sign up!

Why we need you

As a Christmas Tree Collection Volunteer, you’ll play a key part in our festive fundraising campaign by helping collect real trees from homes and businesses in the local area.

We are looking for volunteers who have a van they’d be willing to use for collections, as well as general helpers.

You’ll be working as part of a small team, helping to raise vital funds while offering a friendly and efficient service to our supporters.

This role would suit someone who…

  • Enjoys physical, hands-on tasks
    You’ll be lifting, moving, and loading trees, so if you like to keep active and don’t mind getting stuck in, this is perfect.
  • Likes working as part of a team
    You’ll be paired with others- driving, navigating, or collecting. It would be ideal for team players who enjoy shared goals and a bit of camaraderie.
  • Wants to support a great cause
    Whether you’ve got a personal connection to hospice care or just want to give back, your efforts directly help raise vital funds for patient care.
  • Can spare a day or two in January
    It’s a short-term commitment, great for people who can give a few hours post-Christmas and want to start the new year making a difference.
  • Has local knowledge or enjoys driving (optional)
    Volunteers who can drive or navigate local routes are especially helpful, though this isn’t essential.
  • Wants to volunteer with a friend or colleague
    Pairs or small groups are welcome—ideal for a fun volunteering day out together.

What’s in it for you

  • Regular newsletters: Keeping you up to date with all the latest St Margaret’s news!
  • Team Spirit: Enjoy a fun, festive atmosphere working alongside a brilliant group of like-minded volunteers and staff.
  • Free Drinks & Snacks: We’ll keep you fuelled with warm drinks and treats throughout your shift!
  • Skills & Experience: Great for your CV – develop logistics, teamwork, and event experience (plus van driving if applicable).
  • Volunteer Recognition: All volunteers are recognised and appreciated, and you’ll be part of a wider community of hospice supporters.

What we need from you

  • Age Requirement: Volunteers must be 18 years or older due to manual handling and potential driving responsibilities.
  • Physical Requirements: Must be physically fit and comfortable with lifting and carrying trees, which can vary in size and weight.
  • Driving Requirements (for drivers only): Must hold a full, clean UK driving licence. Comfortable driving a van (often a transit or similar size).
  • You may be asked to confirm your licence and/or provide documentation. May need to inform your insurer if using your own vehicle (if applicable).
  • Health & Safety: Must follow guidance around safe lifting, vehicle loading, and traffic awareness. Safety briefings will be given before the shift begins.

Interested in getting your tree collected?

You can register your interest today by visiting our main event page!

Please see our privacy policy and our terms and conditions.