Festival Volunteering

“London’s most spectacular free festival” (Time Out)

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival returns this summer with an extraordinary programme of theatre, circus and dance. We are seeking volunteers to support this year's festival in a variety of roles.

Volunteer Role Description

Each year, more than 100 volunteers help bring GDIF to life, welcoming audiences, supporting events, and creating an unforgettable experience across East and South East London.

The festival runs from 21 August - 6 September 2026.

We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to play a vital role in delivering the festival. Whether you'd like to be a friendly face for audiences, take on a Team Leader role supporting fellow volunteers, or support our access team to help make the festival welcoming and accessible for everyone, there are a range of opportunities to get involved.

As a GDIF volunteer, you will:

• Connect with local communities and meet new people across South East London.
• Develop valuable communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
• Volunteer alongside like-minded people with a passion for arts, culture and live events.
• Gain hands-on experience in festival and event delivery.
• Build your confidence and enhance your CV with practical experience.
• Have up to £10 of expenses reimbursed per shift.
• Be invited to volunteer social events and a dedicated volunteer ‘Thank You’ party as part of the festival.

Join us and help create extraordinary experiences for thousands of audience members this summer.

Volunteer Roles:

Festival Volunteer Support the day-to-day running of the festival by welcoming audiences, sharing information, assisting with engagement activities, collecting feedback and donations, and helping create a positive, inclusive atmosphere.

Team Leader Support a small team of volunteers onsite, acting as the main point of contact between volunteers and the Volunteer Coordinator. Ideal for experienced leaders who are confident taking on additional responsibility.

Access Champion Access Champions are volunteers who work with the access team to support audiences with access requirements to enjoy the festival.

Access Team Leader Lead a team of Access Champions at events, providing support and guidance while acting as a key link between volunteers and GDIF's Access Managers to help deliver an accessible and inclusive festival experience.

What skills do I need?

We're looking for people who are:

• Aged 18 or over.
• Friendly, reliable, and passionate about the arts.
• Able to commit at least 15 hours to the festival, including training and a minimum of three shifts.
• Keen to get involved, meet new people and help create a fantastic experience for audiences.

Team Leader and Access Team Leader roles require some previous leadership experience.