Whether you’re local to Hereford and eager to share your love of the countryside, or you’re looking to gain hands-on experience working with visually impaired young people in a festival setting, this is a unique opportunity. Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring that families can enjoy all the magic that this beautiful part of the country has to offer in a safe, supported environment.

You can volunteer as an individual, a couple, or a family—come join us for an unforgettable weekend.

If you’re a LOOK Mentor and interested in volunteering for LOOKFest 2025, keep an eye on your inbox—details will be coming your way soon!

Who We Are

LOOK is a small but mighty charity providing community and connection to children, young people and their families affected by visual impairment through peer mentoring and the power of lived experience.

We work nationally offering online opportunities for mentoring and support to visually impaired young people and their parents where they can feel empowered, valued and heard.

Image of a a woman and a young girl sitting on the floor with toys in front of them, the older woman has a white cane in her lap.
Image of a man and a girl in a woodland setting at LOOKFest, the man in helping the girl to chop wood.

What is LOOKFest?

LOOKFest is our opportunity to bring the LOOK community together in-person for a weekend of fun and adventure in nature.

Video with LOOKFest 2022 volunteers talking about their experience

Accessibility and inclusion are our top priorities. We work hard to ensure that LOOKFest and all its activities are safe and welcoming for visually impaired children and their families.

At LOOKFest, we harness the power of lived experience to create a supportive space where families can make lifelong friends, try new things, and enjoy the festival knowing that everyone is included. A key part of this experience is the chance for young people and families to connect with our incredible LOOK Mentors.

Meet the LOOK mentors

We may be small but we have big ambitions, but to achieve this we need your help!

"Volunteering at LOOKFest is incredibly rewarding. The sense of community is amazing—everyone is welcoming, the atmosphere is uplifting, and families truly appreciate the support. It’s hard work, but the joy of helping others and making new connections makes it all worthwhile." J, LOOKFest Volunteer

What You’ll Do as a Volunteer

LOOKFest sighted guide volunteers play a key role in ensuring our visually impaired guests have the best possible experience.

Your Responsibilities May Include:

  • Assist with setting up and packing down the festival site.
  • Providing sighted guide support to visually impaired guests (full training provided)
  • Empowering LOOK mentors by supporting them in their roles
  • Stewarding around the site and assisting in activity tents
  • Helping families navigate the festival site safely
  • Ensuring walkways remain clear and accessible
  • Supporting families and guests to fully enjoy the festival

Volunteer Requirements

To join us, you must:

  • Be 13+ (under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult)
  • Attend virtual training on Zoom in June and an on-site induction on Thursday, 24th July
  • Be available for the event between Friday, 25th – Sunday, 27th July
  • Provide a valid DBS certificate (or allow LOOK to process one for you)
  • Arrange accommodation – either a shared glamping tent (available for a small donation) or bring your own camping setup
  • Comply with the LOOKFest Volunteer Code of Conduct

What We’re Looking For in a LOOKFest Volunteer:

  • Friendly, approachable, and proactive individuals.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.
  • Commitment to attending pre-event training and being present during the festival weekend.

Key Dates

  • June 2025: Online training including safeguarding, accessibility and event logistics.
  • 24th July 2025: On-site orientation at LOOKFest.
  • 25th – 27th July 2025: LOOKFest!
  • August 2025: Post-event debrief on Zoom.
Click here for more information on the role of a LOOKFest volunteer

A Thank You From Us

As a LOOKFest volunteer, you’ll receive:

  • A LOOKFest t-shirt and a goody bag of locally sourced gifts
  • Full training and support before and during the event
  • Transport to/from local train stations and the festival site
  • Travel expenses reimbursed
  • All meals provided while on-site
  • Free parking if required

If you’re excited to be part of LOOKFest 2025 and help make this life-changing festival possible, sign up today!

The deadline for applications is Wednesday, 30th April 2025.

Apply to become a LOOKFest volunteer here

Please email any questions to elin@look-uk.org

Image of a group of adults and young people dancing in a hall setting at LOOKFest, everyone is smiling and having fun
Image of a woman and boy sitting outside playing Jenga, the little boy has his hands over his face in delight as the tower is about to collapse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have prior experience of volunteering?

No, you are not required to have any prior experience of volunteering or working with visually impaired young people. As long as you have a positive ‘can do’ attitude we would love you to be part of the team.

How old do you need to be to volunteer?

All volunteers must be 13 years old and up (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult).

Do I need to have a DBS certificate?

Yes, however, if you provide LOOK with the information we can arrange the DBS certificate for you.

When is LOOKFest

LOOKFest is open to ticket holders from 12pm on 25th July until 12pm on 27th July, however, volunteers are required to attend on-site training on the afternoon of Thursday 24th July.

Will LOOK provide transport to and from the LOOKFest site?

LOOK will provide transport to and from the local train stations in Abergavenny and Hereford. We will also reimburse travel expenses (up to a maximum of 45p per mile, or train tickets up to £50) and can provide parking permits for the festival site.

As we are a small charity we kindly ask that you consider the most cost-effective way to travel to the LOOKFest site this may include using a rail card, booking in advance or booking standard/second-class tickets.

What are the camping options and how much do they cost?

Pitching your own tent or van is FREE (we can help you put up your tent).

If you’d prefer to stay in one of our bell tents, you can book a bed in a shared same-sex bell tent (with or without bedding) or your own bell tent (with or without bedding).

Bell tents are furnished with comfy memory foam mattresses on the floor, linen, cotton rugs, a mirror, bunting, solar fairy lights, colourful cushions, a low table and a battery lamp.

A bedding set includes xx for £6 each.

  • A bed in a shared bell tent is £20
  • A bed in a shared bell tent + bedding is £25
  • A 4 man bell tent is £50 + £6 per bedding
  • A 6 man bell tent is £65 + £6 per bedding
Do I need to bring my own food?

All volunteers will be catered for onsite, however, there is a microwave and a fridge available if you choose to bring your own food. If you do decide to bring your own food we ask you to help us make LOOKFest a nut-free festival for everyone’s safety and comfort.

If you have special dietary requirements please let us know so that we can accommodate your needs. 

Do volunteers need to stay for the whole weekend?

No – please let us know your availability for shifts on-site in your application form.

"Volunteering at LOOKFest gave me a huge confidence boost. I gained practical skills, connected with families, and felt a real sense of belonging. Despite my initial nerves, seeing everyone enjoy the event made it all worthwhile." T, LOOKFest Volunteer