Frequently asked questions...

When do applications open for 2026?

Applications will open on Fri 30th Jan 2026.

What type of volunteer roles are offered on this website?

All positions offered on this website are for volunteers ...light and rewarding customer facing stewarding roles.

Our most common roles are...

Scanning/Wristbanding - Cheking and scanning tickets and issung correct wristbands.
Gate Stewarding - Making sure campers have what they need and monitoring areas.
Area Steward - Overseeing specific areas within the event.
FOH Bar Assistant - Assisting Bar staff in their duties
Information Point Staff - Providing event info for revellers.
Vehicle Escort - Assisting with with safe vehicle movement across site.
General Assistant - Supporting Festaff and event in various roles.

NB. Not all roles are available at each event - please check the individual event page.

What accommodation is provided?

You are required to camp and provide all your own camping equipment.

Basic lighting, showers, washing facilities and toilets will be provided in your staff camping area.

We also have a number of places at most camping events for campervans - please look further down this page for more info.

We do encourage everyone to stay on site, as being part of the on-site team is often more enjoyable. However, if you live locally, you may travel daily, but you must arrive on time for all shifts, remembering traffic may be heightened when the public is arriving. If you do plan to travel daily, you must let the supervisors know when you arrive on site at accreditation

Free camping at the camping event is part of the package.

Food/Meal Vouchers.

At most camping events, you will receive one meal voucher per 8-hour shift. Some events may provide a packed lunch instead.

Meal vouchers alone are not sufficient, especially at longer events or on arrival days when vendors may not yet be open, so we do recommend you bring some of your own food. Please note most vendors will not be open on the day/evening volunteers arrive.

Meal vouchers are not provided at day events - BST Hyde Park, APE, LIDO etc.

Vouchers can be redeemed at on-site vendors. We suggest you check with vendors to make sure they take the vouchers and what you will get. Some vendors are more generous than others. They will have a monetary value and can only be redeemed for food or soft drinks - no alcohol, tobacco etc.

Please bring snacks, additional food for your time on site or enough money to keep you in food for the weekend.

Please do not bring too much food and drink – remember you will need to carry this.

We do not provide disposable cups or mugs anymore as we try to do our bit for the planet. Please bring a reusable water bottle and a metal/plastic mug for hot drinks.

BBQ's, Stoves etc

The use of gas stoves, BBQs, disposable BBQs, or stoves is subject to event-specific rules. Please check the event’s website for guidance. Their rules are our rules on this front.

Cooking equipment can only be used in designated areas, well away from tents. Please follow guidance.

Alcohol on site...

Alcohol policies are set by individual events and apply equally to volunteers and paying customers.

For volunteers please use your common sense and follow the simple guide below...

No drinking on shift, being intoxicated, or appearing under the influence.
No alcohol or being under the influence of alcohol is permitted at staff meetings
Strictly no illegal substances/drugs.
All the above can result in removal from site.

Please refer to individual event guidelines - we must follow their line on alcohol - same rules for paying customers as for volunteers.

What you can expect as part of our team.....

We aim to make volunteering enjoyable and rewarding. We want you to enjoy your time and also keep returning each year!

Meal vouchers per shift (where applicable – see individual event pages)
Staff campsite with facilities
Welfare stations with tea, coffee, biscuits, sweets, dilute juice while on duty
Access to electricity points for a kettle for hot water, phone charging etc– please bring your own charging cables eand adaptor.
Support from on-site Supervisors and the wider Festaff team of which you will be part of.

When will I find out if my application has been successful?

We aim to respond within around one week, though this may take 2–3 weeks during busy periods, especially when applications initially open or during festival season. You’ll be notified by email or text with our decision — please be patient.

If my application is unsuccessful

Your deposit or admin fee (where applicable) will be refunded within 14 days, via your original payment method – card or PayPal.

Shifts....

You are required to volunteer at a set number of hours at any event.

Most camping events require 2 x 8-hour shifts
Some events (e.g. Glastonbury, Boomtown, Creamfields) require 3 x 8-hour shifts
Day events (BST/APE/LIDO) require 1 x 8-hour shift

You are required to volunteer for a set amount of hours at any event.

Please refer to individual event pages for shifts required before applying.

Accreditation.

Accreditation and shift allocation take place on site and can take time. Please be patient!

It is imperative that we have the correct people on site and your contact details are correct so that we can contact you on site should we need to regarding shift changes, changing event info, weather warning etc.

You must bring valid photo ID:

UK driving licence (full or provisional), or
Passport

Photos of ID on phones will NOT be accepted.

ID must be current and in date.

If you cannot provide the above, please email info@festaff.co.uk in advance to agree acceptable ID

Posting images of wristbands or passes on social media is against event and Festaff policy and will result in you being removed from site.

Shift Allocation...

This is done on site at just after accreditation.

We distribute shifts in a fair manner so that nobody gets the short straw.

Shifts are allocated on site after accreditation and graded (A, B, and sometimes C shifts) to ensure fairness and to ensure those who arrive first don’t automatically get the best shifts.

We can’t allocate shifts prior to you arriving on site as shifts are sometimes not confirmed until the day volunteers arrive. Promoters can move opening times at any point due to weather, road closures, site issues, police advice etc and we must be able to react to these late changes.

You may swap shifts, but both people must attend the on-site office together and agree this with a Festaff supervisor. Shifts won’t be swapped unless both people arrive and agree.

Shifts cannot be reserved for late arrivals

Breaks are allocated fairly, no additional breaks for smokers

Why can't we pick shifts prior to arriving on site...

Promoters can move opening times at any point due to weather, road closures, site issues, police advice etc. We must be able to react to these late changes and thus we may not know the full shift times until around 24 hours before doors.

We would advise that you try and get to site in good time for accreditation so you get the best selection of shifts.

Why do I need to arrive early for my first shift?

We do not require you to complete any training before arriving on site (online or otherwise). Because of this, it’s essential that we spend time with you before the event opens to the public to explain your role and responsibilities.

Why is the first shift arrival time one hour early?
Arriving one hour early for your first shift allows us to train you on scanning and wristbanding equipment, make you aware of different writband and ticket types, show you the area you’ll be stewarding, help you become familiar with key locations such as the arena, water points, and campsite village

This time helps everyone feel confident and prepared before gates open.

Even if you have volunteered with us several times, this training is imperative as events and requirements differ.
While an hour may seem long, it’s necessary to make sure all staff are properly trained, equipped, and comfortable in their roles. This helps the event run smoothly and safely for both staff and the public.

Many of our staff are returning team members, and your experience is valuable. We encourage experienced staff to support and guide newer team members during this time, helping them settle into their roles.

For your second and third shifts, arriving 30 minutes early gives us enough time to brief you, update you on any changes, and position you correctly to allow the current shifts to take their breaks or finish their shifts on time.

Be prepared to spend to spend time on your feet. Spending time on your feet is unavoidable in the roles we cover on site.

Please make sure you have the right footwear for your shifts. Check the weather, but we suggest broken in walking boots or trainers are best for the green field sites that events are held on - do not wear sandals, crocs etc - please make sure your feet are protected!

You will be given breaks during your shift - please use these breaks to rest your legs/feet.

Nightshift.

If there are nightshifts on an event you must be prepared to uptake a shift on nights if you apply for that event

Can I be on the same shifts as my friends?

We do our best to keep friends together as we know that happy volunteers equal great volunteers. We do suggest that the best way to secure the shifts you and your friends desire is to arrive in good time for accreditation - together.

We do what we can to keep friends together - happy volunteers are productive volunteers!!

You can swap shifts with other volunteers if you wish - but you and the swapee must both come and see us in the on site office to swap them on our rota.

If it is discovered that an individual is being disruptive in the work place or preventing others from getting on with their task they will be removed from the event.

Please be prepared to spend time on your feet...

Please make sure you have the right footwear for your shifts - we suggest broken in walking boots are best for green field sites that events are held on - do not wear sandals, crocs etc - please make sure your feet are protected!

You will be given breaks during your shift - please use therse breaks to rest your legs/feet.

Spending time on your feet is unavoidable in the roles we cover on site.

Toilets and Showers.

There should be a provision of portaloos/urinals etc in all areas of the event for public and volunteer use.

You will be provided with an allocation in the staff campsite that we must share with the other staff/volunteers on site.

There should also be toilets in your working area within an easy distance.

You will be provided with an allocation of showers in the staff camping areas. These are also to be shared with other staff/volunteers on site.

Differing events have differing arrangements but most events all facilities are open to volunteers 24 hours, unless they are being cleaned.

Desposits/Admin Fees...

Why have you introduced deposits?

To provide a reliable and professional service to festivals, we need to ensure that volunteers turn up on time and carry out the tasks assigned to them. In the past, some applicants accepted volunteer positions but later chose not to attend or complete their duties.

While some informed us in advance, many did not. This placed unfair pressure on volunteers who did turn up and fulfilled their responsibilities. The deposit is intended to encourage applicants to think carefully before applying and committing to a role. It helps ensure that those who accept positions are serious about volunteering and understand the responsibility involved.

Your deposit will be returned once you have attended your shifts on time and completed the duties assigned to you to a good standard.

How much is the deposit?

£20 per camping festival
No deposit for BST/APE/LIDO/Leeds Roundhay (but £10 admin fee applies)
Glastonbury and Boomtown deposits vary – please check event pages

Deposits and admin fees are event-specific and non-transferable. You cannot swap your deposit and admin fee from event to event. It is only valid for the event you have applied for. One admin fee WILL NOT cover all events in any summer.

Admin fees

£15.00 per camping festival applied for
£10.00 is the admin fee for one day shows - e.g. APE Victoria Park, Lido. BST Hyde Park, etc.

When and how do I pay my deposit and application fee?
Applicants pay the deposit and application fee when submitting your application via PayPal or card. Your application will not be submitted until the deposit and admin fee has been processed.

Will my deposit guarantee me a place at an event?
No – your deposit and admin fee payment submits your application and does not guarantee a place. We must review all applications before places can be offered

Will you return the administration fee?
The administration fee and bond will be returned if no offer of a place is made by Festaff for the event.

Under what circumstances might my deposit not be returned to me?

You don’t attend the festival you have signed up for
You fail to attend a shift you are allocated or do not complete all your allocated shifts (including leaving a shift early)
You withdraw within 5 weeks before you are due to arrive on site
You fail to undertake your duties during a festival or do not reach the required standard whilst on duty
You turn up late for the performance of your duties or are disruptive on site.
You fail to complete shifts/hours at a sister event (where applicable) and both deposits will be retained.
You do not comply with the volunteer notice.

Deposits for Day events - APE Victoria Park, Lido, BST Hyde Park etc are non refundable.

What happens if I am offered a place at a festival but I turn it down?
Your deposit will be returned as long as it is outwith 5 weeks prior to an event.

If you withdraw within 5 weeks of 1st day on site for an event the admin fee and deposit will be withheld.

What happens if you are unable to offer me a place at a festival?
Your deposit and admin fee will be refunded.

What happens if I decline a place before an offer is made?
Your admin fee will be withheld.

Deposit Returns.

When will my deposit be returned to me?

Deposits are returned at the end of the summer (before end of October). Refunds will be issued by cheque if you paid by card or by PayPal if you paid by PayPal.

Please make sure your postal address and name (your name as it appears on your bank account) are up to date on your profile before the beginning of September of the year in question.

It is your responsibility to keep us informed of any changes in address/name that may occur. If we have to re-issue a cheque, a further £20 fee will be incurred. If it is required to cancel a cheque and issue payment via another payment system i.e., PayPal, transfer etc a £20 fee will be incurred.

This process takes time, so please have patience.

Glastonbury deposits will not be returned if you do not attend your sister event, for any reason, or if your performance at either falls below an acceptable standard.

No cash will be returned on site.

Any/all enquiries regarding payment/repayment of bonds must be received by 31st Dec of the year in question.

Refunds

There are no refunds on admin fees for day events.

A £5 fee may be incurred per application if event/season is cancelled due to factors outwith our control (i.e Covid, adverse weather, etc) and admin work has already been undertaken. (£2 for day events)

The Festaff Management Team will have the final word in any matters on applications.

I'm studying Event Management and want to get involved in the festival/music business.

Many of our volunteers are studying events or are interested in this industry. However, getting experience can be tough. Volunteering with Festaff means you not only get to add hands-on experience to your CV, but you’ll make great contacts too. If you are studying event management - please let us know and we'll try and help.

Secure Storage.

Please refer to the event website to see if there is any secure storage on site at any events.

Festaff does NOT operate any safe storage system.

We suggest if you cannot afford to lose it - don't bring it!

Parking at events.

At all camping events there will be free parking for volunteers - at most events you will be given a parking pass on entry - please refer to the event info specific to that event once you have accepted your place.

We do insist that you Care Share where possible to save the planet and you money - please feel free to use our SM channels to offer seats or try and get a lift to an event with other members for the team.

Once you have parked up for the event we hope that your vehicle wont move until you leave site.

There is no parking for volunteers at day events.

Guide for Campervans at events with Festaff...

Please do not aply for a CV space before you have been offered a place at said event first and foremost.

Please check that the event actually accepts CVs for volunteers first and foremost on the event page on the Festaff website....currently we cannot accept CVs at day events or Kendal Calling.

If you require a pitch, please email campervans@festaff.co.uk the required info – reg, H/W/L, make and model. How many the CV sleeps and what the occupancy will be on the weekend of the show.

Email this info and we will provisionally book you in for the event and will confirm your place around a month ahead of the event.

No info - no booking. NB. Many events have a limit on how many CVs we can bring - so we may not be able to accommodate all.

All CVs must have a window in the sleeping area, ventilation in the sleeping area, fixed beds, and be able to open the back from the inside. No cars, vans etc will be allowed in CV section…a van/pick up/car with a mattress in the back is not a CV.

Once on site you must park where instructed by Festaff Supervisors or event stewards..

Once on site the CV must stay in situ for the entire event until you leave on the Sunday/Monday.

There are no elec hook ups – anyone caught hooking up to provided elec could be asked to leave site.

Toilet Waste – Please take this away with you…or if you cannot please dispose of it in an IBC on site and DO NOT put it down the portable loos as the cross contamination can make some waste non-recyclable.

No Tents can be put beside/attached to CVans/vehicles – there must be a separation of vehicles and tents.

No amplified music for CVs after 10pm.

No running the engine at unsociable hours.

All CVs must have an in-date fire extinguisher – these may be checked on site.

Your CV and belongings may be subject to a full search at any time on site.

Caravans approved on individual basis.

A separate email must be sent per CV application per event.

If applying for a place for your CV you agree to abide by the rules given here

Searches on site....

If you agree to be part of our onsite team you agree to having your person searched for security reasons....or your belongings, including your tent and vehicle - at any time during your time on site.

Adjustments for those with Disabilities or Health Conditions.

Festaff welcomes applications from all and will make reasonable adjustments to make sure volunteers with disabilities, or physical or mental health conditions, are not substantially disadvantaged when volunteering at any event.

Drop us an email and we will work with you –info@festaff.co.uk

Glastonbury Applications 2027.

Those who volunteer at x2, or more, camping events in summer 2026 will qualify for an invite to apply.

If these places are not all filled with those who work x 2 camping events we will look to those with previous experience on all events including day events.

If we have too many applications we will look to those with previous experience over all events including day events.

Receiving an invite to apply does not guarantee a place.

All applications must be processed individually.

Volunteer places at all events are subject to contracts being agreed between promoter/Festaff.

Other Info....

Can I swap my deposit and application fee from festival to festival, or to another person, if I change my mind?
Deposits and administration fees are not transferrable between applicants or events.

What happens if I am ill and cannot attend or need to leave site for medical reaons?
Please email us a scanned copy of a signed and dated doctor's/medical note indicating that you are unfit for work on the dates of the event. We will then be able to offer you a refund.

What happens if I am unable to attend due to a bereavement?
In order to process your refund, we require you to confirm your relationship with the deceased and supply suitable documentary evidence, such as a death certificate. We can then process your refund.

Who can be my referee?
You are asked to provide a referee as part of your application. This should be somebody who can provide a character reference. Ideally this should be a former employer (especially a mentor or line manager), a contact from a volunteer position, a sports coach from a team you have played in, your teacher, lecturer or tutor. You cannot use family, friends or a neighbour. Please ensure that your referee’s contact details are kept up to date, and that you have their permission for us to contact them.

Can I get a reference for a job?
Volunteering with Festaff means you get to add invaluable experience to your CV. We are happy to offer a reference for you once you have completed your volunteering to a good standard. If you do require a referee, please contact us with details of the job you are applying for.

If you are unsure of anything or require further info - please contact us.