Stars of Teignbridge 2026

We were delighted to attend the Stars of Teignbridge Awards ceremony on Friday 23rd October 2026 alongside Jules, Sue and Ted from the Cliffden Buddies, who were shortlisted for an award.

The Cliffden Buddies are an amazing group of volunteer sighted guides who accompany visually impaired visitors to the area and the group are partnered and supported by Volunteering in Health

They were nominated in the ‘Equity and Inclusion’ category, celebrating organisations that create a strong sense of belonging and community for all.

Although they didn’t win this time, it was a real honour for the volunteers to be recognised alongside so many fantastic organisations and individuals who give their time, energy and passion to help others.

It was a truly inspiring evening, hearing about the wonderful work being carried out by voluntary organisations across Teignbridge and the difference they make to so many people’s lives. The dedication, kindness and commitment shown by these groups and their volunteers is incredible, and it was lovely to be part of an evening celebrating everything they do.

A huge congratulations to all the winners and everyone who was shortlisted! You are all making a real difference in our communities, and your hard work deserves to be celebrated.

#StarsOfTeignbridge

HOPE Course November 2026

Are you living with a long-term health condition, chronic pain, or simply feeling overwhelmed?

The Help Overcoming Problems Effectively (HOPE) Programme supports individuals to focus on themselves as a person, and to consider “What is important to me?”. A FREE, six-week, self-management programme where we bring groups of people together that are going through a similar experience. You are not alone!

The next HOPE course being facilitated by Volunteering in Health is starting on 10th November 2026 and will be at Bitton House, Teignmouth running on Tuesdays from 10am-12.30pm.

TUES 10th November

TUES 17th November

TUES 24th November

TUES 2nd December

TUES 8th December

TUES 16th December

Telephone: 01626 771695

Email: info@volunteeringinhealth.co.uk

Neighbourhood Health Community Workshop

Join us on Weds 14th October 2026 for a Community Workshop from 2pm to 3.30pm at Teignmouth Hospital

The aim of the workshop is to understand what matters most to local people, communities, carers, patients, and voluntary sector partners, and to gather insights that will help shape future neighbourhood health services.

This is not to reach agreement on every issue. The aim is to understand what matters most to local people.

The session is not a consultation on predetermined plans. It is an opportunity to listen, understand local experiences, identify priorities, and gather ideas that can directly influence future service design.

There are only a limited number of places available to attend this workshop. If you would like to come along, please send an email to alwyn.hart@volunteeringinhealth.co.uk to reserve your place.

Essie & Sammie take on epic challenge for VIH

On 28th July 2026, Essie and Sammy Amery embarked on an incredible challenge, cycling the length of Great Britain from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise funds for Volunteering in Health, a cause that is close to their hearts.

They will be riding unsupported, carrying everything they need on their bikes, and covering around 1,600 km with over 16,000 metres of climbing through some of the UK’s most beautiful landscapes.

This epic journey will test their endurance, determination, and resilience as they cover hundreds of miles across the country and they hope to complete this in just 10 days!

Every pedal stroke is dedicated to supporting a charity that makes a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people in Teignbridge.

Please consider making a donation and supporting their remarkable journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

Donations can be made via:

Go Fund Me: https://gofund.me

Just Giving: https://www.justgiving.com

Supporting Volunteering in Health

Volunteering in Health is a local health and wellbeing charity based at the hospital, providing vital support to people in Teignmouth, Dawlish, and Chudleigh. Through social prescribing and dedicated volunteer services, the charity helps individuals who may be feeling lonely, isolated, or in need of additional support.

The organisation’s mission is to empower people to take greater control of their own health and wellbeing, helping them maintain independence and improve their quality of life.

Making a Difference in the Community

The charity provides a range of invaluable services, including:

One-to-one Wellbeing support
HOPE (Help Overcoming Problems Effectively) Courses
Befriending and companionship
Transport to medical appointments
Guidance and encouragement to improve health and wellbeing

These services help reduce isolation and ensure that local people receive the practical and emotional support they need.

Every donation, no matter the size, will help Volunteering in Health continue its important work throughout the community. By supporting Essie and Sammy’s fundraising effort, you will be helping to improve the lives of people who need it most.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

Quiz fundraiser raises £740!

A huge thank you to everyone who came along and supported the Quiz Night fundraiser at the Masonic Hall in Teignmouth on 10th July 2026. It was a fantastic evening, full of fun, laughter, and some very competitive quizzing.

Thanks to your generosity, and everyone who bought raffle tickets, the total raised was an amazing £740!

We’re delighted that the Benevolent Lodge have confirmed half of the money raised will go to Volunteering in Health’s transport service, helping local people get to the appointments they need. The other half will go to the Worshipful Master’s chosen charities.

A special thank you to everyone who helped organise the evening, the buffet, our quizmaster, everyone who donated raffle prizes, and all those who helped behind the scenes to make it such a success.