How Poppy Appeal Collectors make a difference?

Our incredible Poppy Appeal Collectors are the face of the Poppy Appeal, bringing the poppy to life in communities across the UK. Whether on the high street, at local events, or in supermarkets, they help ensure the nation can remember and honour those who have served.

Their efforts raise vital funds that enable the Royal British Legion to provide lifelong support to serving and ex-serving personnel and their families.

What does a Poppy Appeal Collector do?

Poppy Appeal Collectors have been at the heart of the Poppy Appeal for over 100 years, helping raise funds across the country to support the Armed Forces community.

As a Poppy Appeal Collector, you will:

  • Take donations from the public at various locations and events in your local area during the Poppy Appeal in October and November. There may also be opportunities if you wish to get involved at other fundraising events throughout the year.
  • Representing the Royal British Legion at high footfall locations/events.  
  • Supervising stalls at collection points and events. 
  • Talking to members of the public to raise awareness of the Royal British Legion's work.  

Key skills and experience

  • Polite and approachable, and enthusiastic.
  • Confident communicator
  • Dedication, reliability and flexibility.
  • Interest in learning about the support the Royal British Legion provides and sharing this knowledge with the general public.
  • Commitment to behaving in line with the Royal British Legion volunteering policies and procedures.

What are the benefits of volunteering as a Poppy Appeal Collector?

  • The experience of involvement with high-profile fundraising in your local area. 
  • Being part of a committed and friendly team. 
  • Opportunity to provide support and give confidence to others. 
  • Make a difference to the Armed Forces community.

What support will be available to me?

  • Your local Poppy Appeal Organiser, a fellow volunteer, will be your main point of contact and support.  
  • The local Poppy Appeal Manager (PAM) or Poppy Appeal Relationship Assistant (PARA) can also offer guidance. 
  • You will have the Volunteer Agreement that outlines what you can expect from the Royal British Legion and the Royal British Legion’s expectations of you.
  • Opportunities for further development and/or experience in other Royal British Legion volunteer roles.

Volunteer for the Poppy Appeal 2026

Applications for our 2026 appeal are open!

Register for Volunteering

About the Royal British Legion

The Royal British Legion is the UK’s largest charity dedicated to supporting the needs of the Armed Forces community, past and present and their families.

We provide lifelong support to serving and ex-serving personnel, starting after one day of service and continuing through life. This includes:

  • Financial support, grants and debt advice to help veterans and their families manage financial challenges and access benefits they are entitled to
  • Specialist support for wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans through adaptive sport and outdoor activities at our Battle Back Centre
  • Six care homes for the Armed Forces community, including five that provide specialist dementia care

Alongside advice and support services, we champion the interests of serving and ex-serving personnel and campaign on key issues to help improve their lives and make their voices heard.

Every year we lead the nation in commemorating and honouring those who have served and sacrificed, distributing our paper poppies to raise vital funds to help today's Armed Forces community through our annual Poppy Appeal.

Volunteer for the Poppy Appeal 2026

Applications for our 2026 appeal are open!

Register for Volunteering
 

Similar Volunteering Opportunities

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Poppy Appeal Organiser

An ideal role for an experienced volunteer or leader, coordinate Poppy Appeal collections in your community and be a point of contact for local groups, clubs and businesses.

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