Eurovision is starting to feel very real for Liverpool City Council’s 500 EuroVols, as the volunteers enjoy their first training session.
After a welcome from Martin Green, Managing Director of Eurovision Song Contest 2023, the volunteers were given briefings about the programme of events happening in the city, Ukraine and Liverpool tourism, as well as health and safety and security, before being taken on a guided walk around the waterfront.
All volunteers will also receive online accessibility training delivered by Inclusive Employers and first aid training delivered by Community Save a Life Scheme.
There will also be an opportunity for volunteers to meet Eurovision 1981 winner Cheryl Baker from Bucks Fizz in an online Q&A session.
Volunteer Programme Manager Mathilde Bellec said:
“There was a real buzz in the air at the training as it was the first time our volunteers had a chance to meet each other and share stories about why they were volunteering and what they hope to get out of it. The enthusiasm they displayed was heart-warming and made all the work behind the scenes worth it.
“The volunteering programme gives people the chance to be at the heart of this iconic event, contributing to making history in Liverpool and representing the city’s long culture of welcoming the world with open arms.
“Volunteering is an opportunity to meet new people, gain skills and make great memories. It is a rewarding experience to feel part of a team and to have contributed to an event that will be talked about for decades.
“We have put together a diverse and inclusive volunteering team, with a blend of local volunteers and volunteers with knowledge of the Ukrainian language and culture.”
Volunteer Ian Atkinson, who works as a Visitor Assistant for National Museums Liverpool, added:
“I was so excited when I found out I was going to be a volunteer welcome host. I meet and greet people every day in my job at World Museum and I love what I do so I can’t wait to get started.
“I’m a lifelong Eurovision fan so witnessing my home city hosting the contest and being part of that is a once in a lifetime experience. It’s like Anfield hosting the Champions League final.
“I love Liverpool – I love the city, I love the people and I love the community vibe. It is one of the nicest cities in the world. Whenever I go travelling, I’m always happy to come home. I can’t wait to welcome different cultures and nationalities and immerse myself in all things Eurovision.”
Volunteers will be located around the city centre and at key transport hubs, placed along the route visitors will take from Lime Street to the Pier Head, including Liverpool One. They will be the welcoming faces meeting and greeting visitors to Liverpool.
The volunteers will receive their uniforms, which have been designed by LiverPrint in partnership with Ukrainian graphic designer Olena Danylchenko, later this month.
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