Big Lunch and Big Help Out weekend returns to Cornwall in June

Four organisations are joining forces in St Dennis next month to clean up a community centre, run a children’s nature morning and feed everyone afterwards. And it won’t cost residents a penny.

The ClayTAWC Community Day is part of The Big Lunch and The Big Help Out, a UK-wide weekend running from 5th to 8th June. Delivered by the Eden Project and made possible by Pears Foundation and Co-op, the weekend brings neighbours together to share food and take simple actions to strengthen their communities.

What’s happening in St Dennis

Co-op Member Activator Mike Hooper is backing the ClayTAWC event, which will see Natural England host a Nature Discovery morning for children while Co-op and ClayTAWC volunteers tackle the community centre’s garden and outdoor space. A Big Lunch for everyone follows.

Mike said: “This is an event that will bring the Clay Area together to really support the St Dennis community. We have four organisations partnering to produce a day with something for everyone, with Natural England hosting a Nature Discovery morning for children while the Co-op and ClayTAWC will lead a Big Help Out with volunteers to clean up the community centre’s garden and outdoor space, followed by a Big Lunch for all. All supported by The Eden Project.”

He added: “We know how much people in the area care about the community. The Big Lunch and The Big Help Out are brilliant chances to bring people together, meet new neighbours and do something positive. My role at Co-op enables me to help members and customers take positive action on their doorstep, building stronger, more resilient communities.”

How to get involved

Co-op Member Activators are local colleagues who raise awareness of Co-op membership and work with members to deliver community projects. They have activity happening across Cornwall throughout June.

To help groups get started, the Eden Project is offering £20 Co-op vouchers, free resources and simple ideas for hosts. Last year millions took part across the UK, with events ranging from small doorstep chats to large community celebrations.

People can find local events on the Big Lunch Map or register their own at thebigdo.com. To find your local Member Activator and what’s happening nearby, visit coop.co.uk/gettogethers2026.

The Big Lunch has been the UK’s annual celebration of neighbours since 2009. The Big Help Out launched in 2023 and has inspired millions to try volunteering through simple, local opportunities.