What meals on wheels involves
Meals on wheels is a community service that delivers hot, nutritious food to people who struggle to cook for themselves. Recipients are typically elderly, though the service also supports people with disabilities, those recovering from illness, and anyone who finds preparing meals difficult.
As a volunteer, you might drive a delivery route, help prepare food in a kitchen, or assist with both. The role typically requires just a few hours each week, though you can take on more if your schedule allows.
Beyond the practical task of delivering food, there is a social element that many volunteers find rewarding. For some recipients, the person bringing their meal may be the only visitor they see that day. A brief, friendly conversation can make a real difference to someone who lives alone.

Answer a few questions about your interests, skills, and availability and get matched with the types of volunteering that suit you best. Whether you want to work with people, animals, or the environment, we will find your ideal role.
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Age requirements vary between providers. Many ask volunteers to be at least 18, though some programmes accept younger people in supervised roles, particularly for kitchen work rather than driving.
Previous experience in care or catering is not required, though a calm and patient manner is useful. You will be meeting people from all walks of life, some of whom may be unwell or isolated, so the ability to put others at ease matters more than specific skills.
Drivers are in high demand. If you hold a full UK driving licence, providers will be keen to hear from you. Some schemes provide a vehicle for deliveries, but many ask volunteers to use their own car. Fuel expenses are usually reimbursed, though arrangements vary between providers.
If you prefer to stay behind the scenes, kitchen roles may suit you better. Tasks can include preparing ingredients, portioning meals, and packing containers for delivery. Cooking experience is helpful but not always essential, as training is often provided. Volunteers working with food preparation may need to understand dietary requirements and restrictions, since recipients often have specific health needs.
Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.
How to get involved
Meals on wheels services are run by different organisations depending on where you live. Some local councils coordinate their own schemes, while others work with charities or community groups.
Royal Voluntary Service operates in many areas across the UK. Their website lists current volunteering opportunities and allows you to search by postcode. Age UK also provides support for meals on wheels services in some regions, though their involvement varies by area.
Your local council website is a good starting point. Search for meals on wheels or home meal delivery in your area, and you should find details of the provider and how to apply. Some areas use the term hot meals service or community meals instead.
The application process usually involves an informal interview and a background check through the Disclosure and Barring Service. This is standard for roles involving contact with vulnerable people and should not put you off applying. You may also need to complete training on health and safety, data protection, and confidentiality before starting. These checks and training requirements mean there can be a wait of several weeks between applying and beginning your first shift.
What to expect as a volunteer
Most volunteers work on a regular schedule, perhaps one morning or afternoon each week. Consistency helps recipients, as many appreciate seeing a familiar face. However, providers understand that volunteers have other commitments, and flexibility is usually possible.
Training is provided before you start. This typically covers food safety basics, safeguarding awareness, and what to do if you have concerns about a recipient's wellbeing. You will not be expected to provide care or enter someone's home for extended periods, but you will learn how to spot signs that someone may need additional support.
The role suits people who enjoy being out and about in their community. Retired individuals, part time workers, and students have all found it a practical way to contribute without a heavy time commitment.
If you are unsure whether meals on wheels is right for you, contact a local provider and ask about shadowing an experienced volunteer for a session. This can give you a realistic sense of what the role involves before you commit.
3 days a week .
Would like to volunteer I don’t have any experience but I have a car so could help that way . Thanks
Areas available to deliver would be
Dewsbury
Batley
Heckmondwike
Liversedge
Cleakheaton
Ossett
Horbury
Earsheaton areas
Bexhill area
ls on wheels for the community
I am happy to deliver or help with food preparation.
I do work so I’m limited to the hours I can help.
I may be able to deliver also.
Please contact me by email, I look forward to hearing from you, thank you.
my 14 year old has to do volunteer work for his DofE Bronze award..We were wondering if it was possible for him to volunteer along side me for a few months on the weekends or during his school holidays ...
warm regards
Natasha
.I would like to volunteer
Are you accepting volunteers at this time. I’m 47 and all my children are at school so I have the time.
Many thanks,
Tori Haines
Can you give me any more details please
I have a car, and full clean driving licence
Please get in touch with anything which may be suitable
I have 25 years experience in the hospitality industry.
I live in Greater Manchester.(Stockport postcode)
Kind Regards
Richard Glester.
.I have every Tuesday off work so would like to help in any way I can
Regards,
John Stagg
0402374978
My children(18 yr old Olivia and 16 yr old River) and possibly my husband would like to volunteer a couple days a week to deliver meals. My husband, my daughter and I work full time so I was hoping for in the evening or on weekends is you have anything available. We are in the Gloucester City Camden County area. Please let me know if this schedule will work.
Thank you,
Lori Atkinson
Where do I sign up to volunteer please I don’t mind volunteering anywhere in Hampshire.
Marion
I live in Birmingham, south of the City ( B13) and have a car and working from home and would like to help. I have a car and full clean driving licence.
Krys.
I look forward hearing from you.
Regards,
Ilana
Thankyou
Karen
Thanks :)
Many thanks
Clare
I'm from Birmingham, kingstanding and would like to volunteer to help delivering meals over Christmas available from 10am till 7pm.
If you require any drivers then I can assist most evenings and weekends
Kind regards
KG
We are both DBS enhancers checked
I am a qualified social worker my husband works in a school
Please could you signpost us to an agency where we could help?
Many thanks
Iive in the Leicester Beaumont Leys area and I would like to volunteer some of my time.
Nisha Green :)
I could be flexible on the number of hours required.
Marie Phelan
I can help evenings and everyother sat each week
I live in Sale Manchester have a clean driving Llicence and would love to help
I've recently moved to the Worcestershire area, and am very interested in voluenterring my time to help.
I work mon-fri, but am available weekdays after 5, and weekends. I also drive and have my own car.
Do let me know if I can be of any help?
Many Thanks,
Jackie
Thanks.
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