VOLUNTEER
Be part of the movement, on the day and all year round
Every Black Unity Bike Ride is powered by people who show up for their community. In 2026, over 250 volunteers signed up to help bring BUBR to life, keeping riders safe, lifting spirits and making the events what they were.
Our volunteers are marshals on the route, the welcoming faces at registration, the energy at the finish line and the people behind the scenes who make it all run smoothly. They come from every background and every walk of life, some of them first-timers and some of them with us year after year. What they share is a belief in what BUBR stands for: unity, wellness and a community that looks out for each other.
And the work doesn't stop when the ride ends. Between events, volunteers help us plan routes, shape how we run the day, sit on our trustee board, tell our story and reach people who haven't found us yet.
Whether you can give one day or a few hours a month, there's a place for you here.
Volunteer registration for our rides will open in early 2027, but if you want to get involved between now and then hit up volunteering@blackunitybikeride.com.
We are currently recruiting for our Board of Trustees, hit the button below to find out more.
VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION
why volunteer
Volunteering with BUBR means being at the centre of one of the most joyful gatherings of the Black community in the UK. You'll meet people who become friends, build real skills in events and leadership, and see first-hand what community wellness looks like in practice.
No experience needed, just reliability, warmth and a willingness to get involved. We'll train you and support you every step of the way.
WHAT YOU'LL RECIEVE
- A full briefing pack with key contacts, site maps and safety information
- Online training 1–2 weeks before the event
- An on-site briefing the day before or on event morning
- Lunch on the day and a BUBR volunteer t-shirt
WHAT WE ASK
- Arrive on time and ready for your shift
- Bring warmth, energy and a proactive attitude
- Come prepared for all weather
- Help with set-up or pack-down where needed
on the day roles
From the route to the event hub, every role plays a part in making event day happen. Take a look at where you could fit in. No experience needed, just bring yourself and we'll do the rest.
GROUND STAFF
Keep the event sites running from the first set-up to the final pack-down. You could be building the start and finish areas, directing riders, handing out water, or jumping in wherever an extra pair of hands is needed. Ground Staff make sure everything is in the right place at the right time, so riders can focus on enjoying their day. It's busy, varied and one of the best ways to see how a big event comes together.
RIDE MARSHALS
Ride the route alongside participants, keeping everyone safe, supported and moving together. You'll help manage junctions, keep an eye out for anyone struggling, and make sure no rider gets left behind. Marshals are the backbone of the ride, and a calm, friendly presence that riders come to rely on throughout the day. You'll need to be a confident cyclist, and we'll give you full training on route safety before the event.
VIBE MAKERS
Bring the energy along the route with a backpack speaker, turning every stretch of road into a moving party. You'll cheer riders on, keep the music pumping and give people the boost they need when the legs start to tire. Vibe Makers are a big part of what makes BUBR feel like BUBR, joyful, loud and full of love. If you've got the spirit, we've got the speaker.
FAQs
You do not need any experience to sign up for the Ground Staff or Vibe Maker roles.
Ride Marshals should already be confident cyclists, but you do not have to have previous marshalling experience.
Full training is provided for all roles.
Volunteers must be over 18.
Yes, please get in touch via volunteering@blackunitybikeride.com and one of the team will get back to you.
As a grassroots charity, we are unable to cover expenses for our volunteers. We do, however, provide lunch on the day.
Yes, re-registering each year is essential. It helps us confirm your availability.
Yes, we encourage both group and corporate volunteering.