aDoddle - Community Mapping

Alcohol Awareness Week
2026-07-06 - 2026-07-12
Alcohol Awareness Week is 6th- 12th July 2026.
It is a chance for the UK to get thinking about drinking. It’s a week of awareness-raising, campaigning for change, and more. The theme for Alcohol Awareness Week 2026 is ‘Alcohol and me’.
In a world where big alcohol companies glamorise alcohol as central to everyday experiences – from birthdays and barbecues to sofa nights and cheering on our team – it’s understandable that alcohol often feels like an inevitable part of so many of our lives. So this Alcohol Awareness Week we’re inviting a different conversation and asking: how might alcohol truly be impacting our lives and what can we do about it?
Whether it’s sleepless nights, low energy, increased anxiety or a lingering sense of feeling not quite right, alcohol can affect us in ways we don’t always realise, having a knock on effect on our health and wellbeing, our relationships, our productivity, and those we love. It can also put us at real risk of developing many other long-term health conditions such as liver disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and cancer.
This Alcohol Awareness Week, we’re simply inviting you to take 2 minutes to explore the role alcohol is playing in your life. This could mean understanding more about your alcohol risk level, cutting back on how much you drink, experimenting with an alcohol-free experience or simply learning more. There’s no one-size fits all approach.
And we get it – exploring your relationship with alcohol might feel uncomfortable, confronting, or even a little daunting. That’s okay – you’re not alone in that feeling. But it might be a sign that this is just the right time to learn more, get advice and take a step forwards.
When we drink less alcohol, the benefits often reach far beyond ourselves, strengthening our relationships, our families, and improving our working lives, communities, and society. During Alcohol Awareness Week, we’ll be sharing stories from people who’ve experienced alcohol harm, exploring the impact it’s had on their lives and the lives of those around them, and about the steps they’ve taken to bring about positive change for the benefit of everyone.
We can all take steps to make a change. And with improved support and prevention, we can save money and save lives.
Join us for this year’s Alcohol Awareness Week to find out more about alcohol and its cost to us all.
Source: About Alcohol Awareness Week | Alcohol Change UK

Thank You Day
2026-07-07
Thank You Day takes place on the 7th of July. Celebrated annually on the same date, this day is dedicated to expressing gratitude and appreciation to those who make a difference in our lives. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge and thank the people around us, whether they are family, friends, colleagues, or community members.
Thank You Day was created to foster a culture of gratitude and recognition. It reminds us of the importance of saying “thank you” and the positive impact it can have on relationships and communities. By taking the time to express our appreciation, we can strengthen bonds, boost morale, and spread positivity. This day encourages everyone to reflect on who they are grateful for and to take action to show their thanks, be it through a heartfelt message, a small gift, or a simple gesture.
Source & Find out More: Thank You Day | Awareness Days
#ThankYouDay

World Chocolate Day
2026-07-07
World Chocolate Day is sometimes referred to as International Chocolate Day.
It takes place on 7 July every year, and put simply, it’s a celebration of all things chocolate! The event was created in 2009. In some countries around the world, the day is celebrated on different dates. But July 7 was chosen for World Chocolate Day because this day is thought to be around the time that chocolate was introduced to European countries. It quickly became a favourite treat in South Africa and across the world!
There are all sorts of different ways that you can celebrate World Chocolate Day. The most obvious is by tucking into some chocolate, but what if you’re after some more outside the (chocolate) box ideas?
Why not bake some delicious chocolate chip cookies with your kids, or watch “Charlie & the Chocolate Factory” movie with your family. Or find some fun facts and the history around chocolate?
Source: World Chocolate Day 2026 | 7th July | Twinkl – Twinkl

Disability Awareness Day
2026-07-12
Disability Awareness Day is a pan-disability event which promotes a can-do culture focusing on what disabled people can do throughout life and work. The show has three main aims:

To highlight what statutory, private or voluntary services are available to enable disabled people to stay independent.
To promote equipment and aids that could maintain or improve independence, not just what is offered by statutory service providers, we want everyone to see the best and/or latest designs
To provide an opportunity to showcase what disabled people can do, in the field of Sport, Arts and Entertainment

As well as fulfilling all these aims every year the show also gives everyone who comes a really good day out filled with interest, fun and entertainment!
Source:Disability Awareness Day Warrington Cheshire

National Give Something Away Day
2026-07-15
Imagine a day when you could clean house and get rid of clutter, show someone that you care, gift small things to strangers, and generally making the world a better place. Yes, this day does, in fact, exist and on July 15 we celebrate National Give Something Away Day!
It’s better to give than to receive, and this is the aim behind #NationalGiveSomethingAwayDay. “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” doesn’t literally mean junk or trash, but items that can serve someone else better. The day encourages people to give freely to others without expecting anything in return. This is also a good way to declutter and pass on things that no longer fit us or are useful to us.
Most of us undoubtedly have way more items than we need. National Give Something Away Day was established on July 15, 2015, by Linda Eaton Hall-Fulcher, a self-proclaimed giver. Linda advocates giving back to the world. According to her, this day is for everyone who cares. It advocates for giving to friends, family, and the less fortunate; for #MindfulConsumerism; and for being more aware of our #CarbonFootprint.
Giving is the simplest act to exist that can brighten up another’s day, and at times really bring about a positive change. Whether it is something small like giving a compliment, giving your friend a jacket of yours that she really likes, or donating clothes to the less fortunate, these little things can have a big impact.
Even though giving is a selfless act, the reward goes both ways. We benefit from feeling good about giving and making someone’s day, and at the same time, we also let go of items that we no longer need and are just lying around. We also learn to be grateful for all our blessings and it makes us feel like responsible people who are improving the community.

Source:National Give Something Away Day (nationaltoday.com)

Nelson Mandela International Day
2026-07-18
Nelson Mandela has many accolades. He’s  an iconic figure that triumphed over South Africa’s apartheid regime. He was a human rights lawyer, a prisoner of conscience, and an international peacemaker. And he was the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa (no biggie).
So you see why the United Nations General Assembly would want to celebrate his life.
Commemorated on July 18th — Nelson Mandela’s birthday — Nelson Mandela International Day celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact. So, in honour of his 67 years of public service, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the U.N. ask that you spend 67 minutes of your time helping others.
Source: NELSON MANDELA DAY – July 18, 2026 – National Today

Samaritans Awareness Day
2026-07-24
24th July is Samaritans Awareness Day, because they’re here to listen 24/7.
On this date and throughout July, The Samaritans will be running their awareness-raising campaign Talk to Us, to remind people that they’re here for anyone who needs someone to listen.
Every year in July, Samaritans branches in the UK and Republic of Ireland hold local events to raise awareness that Samaritans are here to listen to anyone who’s struggling to cope, at any time of the day or night.
When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
#TalkToUs #SamaritansAwarenessDay
Source: Talk To Us Campaign | Samaritans Campaigns

International Self-Care Day
2026-07-24
Every year on July 24th, International Self Care Day promotes self-care as a vital foundation of health. It’s also a day for people around the world to prioritise self-care and make it a part of their lifestyle.
When you take care of yourself to stay well, you are practicing #SelfCare. Staying well includes taking care of your whole self: physically, mentally, and emotionally. For some, self-care also includes taking care of themselves spiritually. So what exactly does self-care look like? It could be as simple as having some quiet time each day. Others might have coffee with a friend at least once a week.
Other examples of self-care include:

Having a regular sleep routine
Maintaining a healthy weight
Keeping a reflective journal
Practicing gratitude
Getting a massage
Listening to relaxing music
Reading a good book
Learning to say no
Asking for help when necessary

There are other areas of self-care that some focus on as well. For example, financial self-care involves paying bills on time and putting money into savings. Monitoring time on social media and decluttering your home are included in environmental self-care.
No matter what kind of self-care one practices, one is bound to reap benefits. Having a healthier mind and body are the two primary benefits. Other benefits of self-care include feeling less stressed and being less overwhelmed. Self-care is especially important for caregivers. It’s easy for a caregiver to pour all of their time and energy into another person. Doing so eventually takes its toll. As the saying goes, “You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first.”
Source: INTERNATIONAL SELF CARE DAY – July 24 – National Day Calendar

National Schizophrenia Day
2026-07-25
National Schizophrenia Awareness Day, marked on 25 July every year by the charity Rethink Mental Illness, explores what it means to live with this much misunderstood and often stigmatised mental health condition.
In England, approximately one adult in every 100 will live with a diagnosis of #Schizophrenia.
By shattering some of the myths and breaking the stigma and prejudice which surrounds this diagnosis, Rethink Mental Illness continues to provide support and community for people living with schizophrenia and their loved ones.
On National Schizophrenia Awareness Day, which coincides with the founding of the charity nearly 50 years ago, Rethink Mental Illness shines a spotlight on the condition and the dedicated work to improve the quality of life for people living with schizophrenia and their carers.
#SupportMentalHealth #RethinkMentalIllness
Source: National Schizophrenia Awareness Day 2026 | 25 July 2026

World Hepatitis Day
2026-07-28
Every year, more than a million lives are lost to hepatitis. We’re not waiting for change – we’re fighting to make it happen.
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by a viral infection. There are five main hepatitis viruses, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E. These five types are of greatest concern because of the burden of illness and death they cause and the potential for outbreaks and epidemic spread.

With viral hepatitis unaware can’t wait for testing
People living with hepatitis can’t wait for life saving treatments
Expectant mothers can’t wait for hepatitis screening and treatment
Newborn babies can’t wait for birth dose vaccination
People affected by hepatitis can’t wait to end stigma and discrimination
Community organisations can’t wait for greater investment
Decision makers can’t wait and must act now to make hepatitis elimination a reality through political will and funding.

We’re not waiting
‘We’re not waiting’ is a call to action for #WHD2026. It’s a call to accelerate elimination efforts of viral #Hepatitis now and the urgent need for testing and treatment for the real people who need it. Individuals and communities around the world are making change happen in their own lives and in the world around them. We celebrate them, while demanding more action.
#We’reNotWaiting #ViralHepatitus LetsBreakItDown
Source: World Hepatitis Day – World Hepatitis Day

International Friendship Day
2026-07-30
Today is International Day of Friendship !
Our world faces many challenges, crises and forces of division — such as poverty, violence, and human rights abuses — among many others — that undermine peace, security, development and social harmony among the world’s peoples.
To confront those crises and challenges, their root causes must be addressed by promoting and defending a shared spirit of human solidarity that takes many forms — the simplest of which is friendship.
Through #Friendship — by accumulating bonds of camaraderie and developing strong ties of trust — we can contribute to the fundamental shifts that are urgently needed to achieve lasting stability, weave a safety net that will protect us all, and generate passion for a better world where all are united for the greater good.

Source: International Day of Friendship | United Nations

World Breastfeeding Week
2026-08-01 - 2026-08-07
#WBW2026 will focus on tracking progress and evaluating breastfeeding impact on nutrition, food security and poverty reduction with highlights of successful implementation and lessons learnt. In 2026, the WBW-SDG campaign will enter its third cycle and will focus on tracking progress in Thematic Area 1: Nutrition, food security and poverty reduction. The campaign will measure progress, showcase global and regional statistics with highlights of what works and what needs further improvement.

Protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding will ensure optimum nutrition, food security and poverty reduction. Breastfeeding saves both the infant and maternal lives. It also supports nutrition, development and lifelong health. Breastmilk is a low-cost, locally available nutrition for all, hence promoting equity with economic returns to families and nations. We invite all the actors in the Warm Chain of Support for Breastfeeding to join us in understanding what is working in countries that are reporting good breastfeeding progress.

#Breastfeeding can act as an equaliser in our society and efforts must be made to ensure everyone has access to breastfeeding support and opportunities. It is essential that no-one is left behind especially vulnerable mothers who may need additional support to reduce breastfeeding inequalities.
Target audiences including governments, policymakers, workplaces, communities and parents will be engaged to play their critical roles in empowering families and sustaining breastfeeding-friendly environments in the post-pandemic work life. The theme is aligned with thematic area 4 of the WBW-SDG 2030 campaign.

#EnablingBreastfeeding #EmpoweringParentsCampaign #BreastfeedingSupport #StrengthenWhatWorks

Source: World Breastfeeding Week 2026

Yorkshire Day
2026-08-01
Yorkshire Day is celebrated on August 1st. Yorkshire belongs to the United Kingdom and was formerly known as the County of York. The name came from it being the Shire of the city of York, commonly referred to as York’s Shire. It is the largest county in the U.K. and has always been recognized as a cultural region and a geographical territory.
As an area on the up and up, it’s becoming one of the most important places in the UK, as the likes of #Leeds, #Hull, #Bradford have become prominent as centres of finance, culture and much more.
If you live in #Yorkshire, why not check out some of our wonderful charities and organisations based in the area on our Community Maps. Many are looking for #Volunteers.
Yorkshire and The Humber | aDoddle – Community Mapping

Single Working Women's Day
2026-08-04
Single Working Women’s Day takes place on the 4th of August. Celebrated annually, this day recognises and honours the contributions of single working women to society. It highlights their strength, resilience, and the unique challenges they face while balancing work, family, and personal life. This day is an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and raise awareness about the support and resources they need.
Single Working Women’s Day acknowledges the hard work and dedication of single women who juggle multiple responsibilities. These women often serve as the primary breadwinners for their families while managing household duties and personal commitments. The day also sheds light on the systemic issues that single working women encounter, such as wage gaps, workplace discrimination, and the lack of adequate childcare support.
Throughout the day, various activities and events are organised to celebrate single working women. These may include workshops, seminars, and networking events aimed at empowering women and providing them with valuable resources. Organisations and communities often come together to host appreciation events, where single working women are recognised and celebrated for their contributions.
#SingleWorkingWomensDay #WomenEmpowerment #SingleWorkingWomen #CelebrateWomen #WomenInWorkforce #SupportSingleWomen #WomenAchievements #SingleMothers

National Opportunity Day
2026-08-07
Imagine a world where setbacks are simply stepping stones. A world where a change in direction is not seen as failure, but as an opportunity to discover hidden talents and uncover new passions. This is the world we invite you to explore on #NationalOpportunityDay on 7th August. It’s a world where limitations are shattered, and aspirations are embraced.
Whether it’s vocational training, apprenticeships, work-based learning, or pursuing an alternative higher education path, National Opportunity Day celebrates all these options and more. No student should ever feel left behind. It’s never too late and there’s always a possibility. There’s something for everyone. We’re here to help you navigate through the maze of opportunities and find the path that resonates with you.
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes, the path we envision takes a detour. But here’s the thing: that detour can lead us to remarkable opportunities we never even dreamed of. That’s what National Opportunity Day is all about – celebrating the boundless possibilities that await everyone, regardless of any disappointment or setbacks.
A smooth ride is rare. Many students find themselves disappointed when they don’t achieve the results they hoped for, or secure the further education place they had set their heart on. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. However, this is not the end of the road. It’s just the beginning.
National Opportunity Day is a day dedicated to shedding light on all the possible opportunities beyond the traditional route. We hope to inspire and empower students to embrace alternative options that can lead to a fulfilling and successful future.

Source: National Opportunity Day 2026: 7 August 2026 | Awareness Days

National Allotment Week
2026-08-10 - 2026-08-16
This year, National Allotment Week will run from 10th-16th August with the theme of “Grow to Learn.”
It’s a great chance to explore how allotments support healthier lifestyles and stronger communities. Whether you’re an experienced grower or just getting started, events are taking place across the UK.
Gardening can help people cope with stress and mental health issues. One of the best ways to have a calmer, more optimistic mindset is to immerse yourself in nature and nurture plants.
Join in the week-long celebration by signing up for a local gardening class. Invite your neighbours and friends to a seed and plant swap. It’s also a great way for you to get some exercise and connect with your friends and neighbours.
Source: national_allotments_week (thenas.org.uk)

International Youth Day
2026-08-12
International Youth Day on August 12th focuses on the difficulties that some young people are experiencing throughout the world. Half the children between the age of six and 13 lack basic reading and math skills and childhood poverty is still a prevalent problem globally.
#InternationalYouthDay was created by the UN to help draw awareness to these issues as we strive to find solutions. It’s a day for reflection but also a day for taking action so get involved. There’ll be many concerts, workshops and cultural events taking place so have a look at what is happening in your local area.
It’s an initiative that honours the traits of young people and that acknowledges the challenges that today’s fledging youth face. To support the elimination of these issues it is important that the youth is able to reach the right resources for education, wellbeing, medicine and more.
International Youth Day began in 2000 and was organised by the UN to recognise the input that young people make in education, community development, environmental groups, volunteering for different social projects.

Source: International Youth Day (nationaltoday.com)

National Non-Profit Day
2026-08-17
National Non-Profit Day is commemorated on August 17 each year to recognize non-profit organisations’ ongoing efforts to serve the local community. If you’ve ever volunteered, you’re well aware of the significance of these charitable organisations.
Nonprofits throughout the country work to promote awareness and offer assistance to individuals who otherwise would not be able to afford it. Their activities contribute to the shaping of our society and provide hope for a brighter future.
Non Profit organisations are the glue that hold together many communities across the UK, offering support to people who need it and helping to build connected communities. They do vital work, which can often go under-appreciated.
That’s why we’re celebrating #NationalNonprofitDay, to shine a light on the wonderful non-profit organisations working to make a difference in their area.
Why not take some time to familiarise yourself with the non-profit organisations in your area?
Learn more on aDoddle.org

Never Give Up Day
2026-08-18
On August 18th We Celebrate Never Give Up Day. This Day Is All About Cultivating A Mindset Of Determination
The day not only applauds people for reaching their goals but also supports those who are still trying to achieve their goals. This unique celebration day is dedicated to showcasing the impactful resilience and determination in our community.
#NeverGiveUpDay encourages awareness-raising activities, (sports) events, runs/walks for charity, workshops and community programs. Health and social care associations, organisations and charities can initiate their call to action and fundraising events.
All in all, Never Give Up Day provides a common platform for individuals and professionals to use their imagination and judgment to innovate to inspire.
Source: Never Give Up Day 2026: 18 August 2026 | Awareness Days

Women's Equality Day
2026-08-26
Women’s Equality Day, celebrated every August 26th, commemorates the passage of women’s suffrage and reminds us of the hurdles overcome by the heroic women who faced violence and #Discrimination to propel the women’s movement forward.
In the early 19th century, American women, who generally couldn’t inherit property and made half of a man’s wages in any available jobs, began organizing to demand political rights and representation.
By the early 1900s, several countries including Finland, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom had legalized voting for women as the movement continued to sweep across the world.
In the U.S., the 19th Amendment to the Constitution was first introduced in 1878, but it failed to gain traction. It wasn’t until women’s involvement in the World War I effort made their contributions painfully obvious that women’s suffrage finally gained enough support. Women’s rights groups pointed out the hypocrisy of fighting for democracy in Europe while denying it to half of the American citizens at home.
Women aren’t done fighting for equal rights. Today, the wage gap between men and women still impacts women’s economic power, and gender-based discrimination still plagues workplaces and business transactions.
#WomensEqualityDay is all about uplifting and #EmpoweringWomen, and marvelling at how far women have progressed, defying all odds and oppression. General traditions include men and women expressing gratitude to influential women in their lives, supporting local businesses run by women, and celebrating womanhood with your girl gang and special ladies.

Source: WOMEN’S EQUALITY DAY – August 26, 2026 – National Today
