Delivered by the Eden Project and supported by Pears Foundation and long-standing corporate partner the Co-op, the UK-wide weekend, taking place from 5–8 June, encourages families, schools, workplaces, community groups and neighbours to connect, share food and take simple actions that make a positive difference where they live.

Scotland’s first national chef Gary Maclean said: “Scotland’s strength has always been its people. A shared meal, a warm chat, a neighbour popping by, these small gestures create the connections we all rely on. The Big Lunch gives us a moment to slow down and appreciate the community around us.

“And with The Big Help Out alongside it, there’s even more opportunity to show up for each other. Whether you volunteer, host something simple at home, or just reach out to someone who might need company, it all matters. I hope people across Scotland feel inspired to take part in whatever way works for them.”

As the UK’s annual celebration of neighbours and local connections, The Big Lunch encourages people everywhere to share food, friendship and fun. This year, it joins forces with The Big Help Out to offer even more ways for communities to come together, from street lunches and cuppas with neighbours to local volunteering, charity visits and small acts of kindness that brighten someone’s day.

To help people get started, Eden and Co-op are offering £20 shopping vouchers, alongside discounts and free resources, to support local plans and help communities put their events on the map at thebigdo.com.

Last year, events were held all over the country, from small village get-togethers to street parties and huge picnics in parks across Scotland.

Eden’s Scotland Manager, Gráinne McCloskey, said: “Scotland has a long tradition of people looking out for each other, and the weekend is an opportunity to reinforce connections. Coming at the end of Volunteers’ Week, it’s the perfect chance to celebrate community. Every small act of connection can make a huge difference, whether you sit down for lunch or organise a help out.”

Running annually since 2009, The Big Lunch has become the UK’s biggest get-together for neighbours, bringing millions of people together on the first weekend in June. The Big Help Out, launched in 2023, has already inspired millions to try volunteering through simple, accessible opportunities. Month of Community is a UK-wide celebration every June that also encourages communities to come together, so there are plenty of opportunities to step up and join in!

Find out more and access free resources at www.thebigdo.com.

The Scottish Housing News Charity Spotlight feature highlights the vital work of charities across Scotland each Friday. To include your local charity, whether housing-related or not, send your story and images to us at newsdesk@scottishnews.com.