The Big Church Day Out – Volunteering Opportunities
In May 2020, over
25,000 people from across the UK & Europe will be joining together for the
Big Church Day Out (BCDO) on the Wiston Estate near Steyning, West
Sussex. The annual event has been running since 2009 and has grown to
become an exciting weekend-long event for the wider Christian community. 2020
will see the advent of BC Youth, which provides bespoke entertainment and
worship for young people.
Each year, over 500 volunteers give their time to ensure the not-for-profit event runs smoothly. For 2020, the Police has been invited to support in a voluntary capacity again, specifically in relation to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults attending the event. Clare McKnight, has led the team for the last 4 years and will be continuing to do so this year. She is a recently retired police inspector from Sussex Police. We are therefore appealing for individuals who would be willing to assist with the event.
Safeguarding volunteers would be responsible for dealing with lost and separated children, as well as any immediate concerns for vulnerable persons. In turn, the team also provide a welcoming role for campers when they arrive on the Friday. The volunteers can be either police officers or police staff and would attend as a member of the public, not in a uniformed capacity. Volunteers do not have to be Christian, just have a heart for serving.
In return, as well as the opportunity to be part of a great team, volunteers will receive:
- Free access to the event when not working plus free tickets for immediate family.
- Free camping onsite (including family) or accommodation at a local conference centre (volunteer only)
- Free meals (2 per worked day)
- Refreshments
- Free T-shirt and Water Bottle.
Support for the event will be provided from Friday 22nd May to Monday 25th May with early and late shifts available. If you would be interested in volunteering at an exciting and vibrant family event or would like further information, then please send your expression of interest to Clare McKnight at [email protected].
Clare McKnight
Retired Police Officer – Sussex Police
