Youth United Foundation joins HM The King at Windsor Castle to celebrate volunteering and the launch of The Big Help Out

Youth United Foundation (YUF) joined His Majesty The King, Her Majesty The Queen, and the President of Germany at Windsor Castle today for a special event celebrating the power of volunteering and marking the launch of The Big Help Out.

Windsor Castle, 4 December 2025 - Youth United Foundation (YUF) joined His Majesty The King, Her Majesty The Queen, and the President of Germany at Windsor Castle today for a special event celebrating the power of volunteering and marking the launch of The Big Help Out.

The event highlighted how volunteering strengthens communities and brings people together across the UK and internationally. This year’s showcase also reflected growing global interest in civic participation, with Germany preparing to launch its own nationwide day of service - “Der Ehrentag” - inspired in part by similar initiatives in the UK.

Youth United Foundation was represented by Director Anna Maddox, who attended alongside young volunteers and leaders from across the YUF network, including Scouts, Girlguiding and the Sea Cadets.

She emphasised that the dedication of volunteers is what makes these opportunities possible:

“Volunteers are at the heart of every uniformed youth organisation. Without their dedication the groups simply could not run. But volunteers also gain so much themselves - they develop leadership skills, grow in confidence, and build their own sense of belonging.”

Anna Maddox described the Windsor Castle event as “a fabulous opportunity to celebrate volunteers from across the sector and showcase how important they are to us.”

Reflecting on the day, Anna Maddox highlighted a powerful moment when young volunteers directly engaged with Their Majesties and the German delegation:

“It was wonderful to see so many organisations come together to celebrate the power of volunteering. Volunteers from Sea Cadets, Scouts and Girlguiding asked The King, The Queen, the German President and his wife to lend a hand — a moment that truly demonstrated the power of communities working together.”

About The Big Help Out

The Big Help Out is a nationwide campaign encouraging people of all ages to explore volunteering opportunities, support their communities, and discover new ways to make a difference. More information: thebighelpout.org.uk

About Youth United Foundation

Youth United Foundation supports the UK’s uniformed youth organisations - including Scouts, Girlguiding, Sea Cadets and Cadet Forces - ensuring that all young people, regardless of background, can access the opportunities and life-changing impact of belonging to a uniformed youth group.

Media Contact

Name: Anele Sachparonian

Email: anele.sachparonian@yuf.org.uk

Website: https://www.yuf.org.uk