Volunteering at Hanwell Hootie 2026: Supporting Community Safety and Connected Communities

At EBAS, we believe strong communities are built when people, organisations and businesses work together. That principle was brought to life when I volunteered with the Emergency Management Team at the Hanwell Hootie, one of Ealing's best-loved community festivals.

Volunteering is important to me personally, and this was my first experience supporting a large public festival. It was a rewarding opportunity to contribute to an event that brings together local musicians, businesses, volunteers and residents in a celebration of community spirit.

With thousands of people attending venues across Hanwell, effective planning and coordination are essential. As part of the Emergency Management Team, I supported the safe running of the festival by helping with event set-up, assisting attendees, monitoring crowd management and working alongside organisers and partner agencies throughout the day..

From preparing venues before visitors arrived to helping direct people to support when needed, I gained a real appreciation of the teamwork that takes place behind the scenes. It was inspiring to see volunteers, community groups and local organisations working together towards a common goal: creating a safe, welcoming and enjoyable experience for everyone.

The experience reinforced something that sits at the heart of the EBAS approach. We talk a great deal about employers contributing through mentoring, volunteering, apprenticeships, work experience and social value activity. However, creating connected communities is not something we simply ask of others. As an EBAS team, we are committed to playing our part too, supporting local initiatives and helping strengthen the networks that make Ealing such a vibrant place to live and work.

Community impact happens when everyone contributes, and Hanwell Hootie was a fantastic example of what can be achieved when residents, businesses, volunteers and public services come together.

Interested in learning more?

  • Find out how EBAS is building an employer ecosystem that connects businesses, communities and opportunities across Ealing.
  • Discover more about Hanwell Hootie and how you can support future community events.

Click here to learn more about EBAS EBAS – Good for Ealing | Click here to learn more about Hanwell Hootie Hanwell Hootie - London's Largest Free Music Festival in the Home of Loud!