More than 4,000 volunteers are today (23 July) preparing to welcome the world to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, thanks to a learning and development programme supported by Allwyn UK, operator of The National Lottery.
Known as the Legends, the volunteers will play a key role in delivering the Games from 23 July to 2 August. Supported through Allwyn UK’s £1 million Social Value Fund, which has supported high street initiatives such as Local Retail Champions, volunteers have received enhanced training and development opportunities to help them prepare for roles across the event.
The programme demonstrates Allwyn’s “commitment to supporting communities and creating positive social impact through both investment and active participation,” it said.
The volunteer workforce reflects communities across Scotland and beyond. Three-quarters of volunteers are from Scotland, while others have travelled from across the Commonwealth and around the world to be part of the Games.
One third of the Legends team previously volunteered at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships, and are returning to help create another memorable Games.
In addition to supporting volunteer training, six Allwyn employees are volunteering at the Games, demonstrating the company’s belief in the power of volunteering to create positive social impact. The Allwyn volunteers will also document their Games experience, showcasing the contribution volunteers make behind the scenes, as well as the lasting skills, confidence and sense of purpose they gain through volunteering.
Alastair Ruxton, chief impact officer at Allwyn UK, said: “We care deeply about volunteering. National Lottery players raise around £33m every week for good causes across the UK, supporting communities, charities and grassroots projects. Volunteering is often at the heart of those organisations.
“Our retail partners see every day the difference National Lottery funding makes in their local communities. This programme is another example of how that commitment can help bring people together, create opportunities and leave a lasting legacy.
Allwyn UK is also working with Scotland’s most decorated track and field athlete, Eilidh Doyle, as volunteer ambassador to celebrate and champion those who are the “heartbeat” of the Games. Drawing on her experience as both an elite athlete and a volunteer, Doyle is helping highlight the essential contribution volunteers make to major sporting events.
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