21.04.2026 First Give News

First Give Partners with Eden Project for The Big Help Out 2026 

Secondary schools across the UK are invited to join the biggest celebration of community this June, with new free resources developed by First Give. 

This summer, over 10 million people will meet, eat and lend a hand locally as The Big Lunch and The Big Help Out come together for One Big Do on 5–8 June 2026. 

First Give has partnered with the Eden Project, the charity leading the campaign, to create comprehensive resources specifically designed for secondary schools, empowering students to take meaningful social action in their communities as part of this UK-wide movement. 

The free resources, available on TES, include five tutor time sessions to help students plan their ‘big do’, along with launch and celebration assemblies. Designed with flexibility at their heart, the materials can be delivered in the way that works best for each school setting. 

From organising Big Lunches with neighbours to coordinating litter picks or volunteering with local causes, the resources promote student-led, quality social action that makes a real difference. 

One Big Do will take place on 5-8 June 2026

Why First Give? 

Isaac Jones, Director of First Give, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be partnering with the Eden Project on The Big Help Out 2026. This is a landmark moment – bringing together The Big Lunch and The Big Help Out for the UK’s biggest weekend of community. 

“First Give is uniquely positioned to develop these secondary school resources because youth social action is at the heart of everything we do. For 12 years, we’ve been working with secondary schools across England and Wales, understanding what works for teachers and what truly engages young people in taking meaningful action in their communities. 

“Our experience has taught us that young people are a powerful force for change when given the right tools and opportunities. These resources reflect that – they’re designed to put students in the driving seat, encouraging them to identify what matters in their local area and take action that makes a genuine impact. We can’t wait to see what students across the UK come up with for their big do this June.” 

A UK-wide celebration 

Lindsey Brummitt, Eden’s Programme Director, said: “This year is a landmark moment for us at the Eden Project, as The Big Lunch and The Big Help Out come together for one incredible weekend and the UK’s biggest celebration of community. 

“We know that when children feel inspired and empowered, they can be a powerful force for change. As a charity, we’re passionate about helping people build local connections and take positive action where they live, and this is a brilliant way to connect learning with real life action, helping young people understand how they can play an active role in the communities where they live to make a difference.” 

The Big Help Out 2026 weekend is supported by a wide range of organisations working with children and young people, including The Scouts, Girlguiding, Barnardo’s, NSPCC, Sea Cadets, YHA and Family Volunteering Club. 

Get Involved 

Secondary schools can download the free resources from TES via the Eden Project communities website and join thousands of schools across the UK taking part in The Big Lunch and The Big Help Out this June. 

Whether big or small, every action counts – from a cuppa and chat with neighbours to coordinating community volunteering, students can play their part in the UK’s biggest celebration of community. 

For more information about The Big Help Out 2026, visit thebigdo.com