Celebrate and support our local small charities

Running from 22 to 29 June, Small Charity Week is a chance to celebrate the incredible contribution of local charities that make Richmond upon Thames a compassionate and connected borough.

Behind many of the services and support residents rely on are small, passionate organisations working every day to improve lives.

Across the borough, small charities tackle isolation, support families and strengthen community life. Their impact is personal and rooted in local knowledge, and with more than 750 operating locally, they depend on community support.

You can make a difference by:

• Donating - every contribution helps charities continue their vital work
• Volunteering - offering your time or skills can have a huge impact
• Spreading the word - raising awareness helps charities reach more people
• Fundraising - join an event or organise your own to support a cause you care about

Richmond CVS

Richmond CVS plays a vital role in helping these organisations succeed.

They provide practical support such as advice on governance, funding and training, as well as opportunities for charities to connect, collaborate and grow. By strengthening the sector behind the scenes, Richmond CVS helps ensure local charities can continue delivering high-quality support where it matters most.

Learn about their recent Volunteer Fair.

The Mayor’s charities

Each year, the Mayor of Richmond upon Thames selects two charities to support, highlighting organisations that make a meaningful difference across the borough.

For 2026/2027, the Mayor’s charities are Cocoon Care After Care and Skylarks. Cocoon Care After Care supports care-experienced young adults as they move towards independent and fulfilling lives, easing emotional and financial pressures and helping them overcome barriers to education, work and social participation. Skylarks is an independent Richmond-based charity providing free activities, therapies, advice and support for children and young people with additional needs and their families.

Find out more about the Mayor’s charities.

Volunteering in parks

Our parks and open spaces offer a wide range of ways to care for nature, with local partner organisations running conservation sessions, gardening groups and habitat restoration activities across the borough. These community-led projects help protect wildlife, enhance green spaces and bring neighbours together outdoors.

Explore current opportunities for volunteering in parks.