Social hackathon
Join us for an unforgettable experience of learning, collaboration and making a difference — with a dash of fun thrown in.
What is a social hackathon?
Social hackathons are events where volunteers work together to solve problems for a local community or organisation within a set time limit. They are a great way to learn new skills, connect with new people, and make a positive impact.
Volunteers are paired with local not-for-profit organisations for a day of problem-solving and solution-creating fun. In teams, you'll tackle issues head-on, learn from professionals and connect with new communities across Bristol.
Previously, we have partnered with organisations including The Matthew Tree Project. and Bristol City of Sanctuary.
Opportunities 2025/26
We are are offering you the opportunity to take part in one of our events, run in collaboration with six of our partner organisations. Please check the dates and times and consider your availability before applying.
October
- Training session (compulsory) - 9 October 2025
- Social Hackathon Day - 15 October 2025
November
- Training session (compulsory) - 13 November 2025
- Social Hackathon Day - 19 November 2025
December
- Training session (compulsory) - 4 December 2025
- Social Hackathon Day - 10 December 2025
February
- Training session (compulsory) - 12 February 2026
- Social Hackathon Day - 18 February 2026
March
- Training session (compulsory) - 12 March 2026
- Hackathon - 18 March 2026
April
- Training session (compulsory) - 16 April 2026
- Social Hackathon Day - 22 April 2026
How to apply
Applications are now open until 1 October 2025. Places go very quickly, so apply now!
If you have any questions, contact The Civic and Community Engagement Team at volunteering@uwe.ac.uk.
What to expect
1. Team introductions
After the shortlisting process, we'll invite you to meet your fellow students on Frenchay Campus. The week before the hackathon we'll get you into teams, giving you the opportunity to get to know your teammates.
You'll be welcomed into the space by someone from our super friendly Community Engagement Team and Student Ventures. They'll help introduce you to other students.
We'll always be there to make sure a fun, friendly and inclusive space is maintained throughout. Our events celebrate difference and no one is out of place at a Social Hackathon.
We'll also be conducting some entrepreneurial training. This will make sure you're well prepared and set up for the day.
You'll be asked to complete a pre-questionnaire, which is a requirement.
2. Ideation
The day of the hackathon, you will join your team to research and brainstorm ideas based on the organisation's challenges.
3. Solution finding and innovation
After an initial brainstorming session, the teams will come back together to discuss them and start working on the solutions you will be presenting to the organisation, at the end of the day.
4. Creation
You'll create an output based on your team's research and ideas, which the organisation will be able to use.
5. Reflection and presentation
At the hackathon, you and your team will be presenting your output. After the event, you'll reflect on the session as a group and give feedback.
All participants will receive a certificate of attendance and completion, which you can share on professional platforms such as LinkedIn to showcase your contribution and enhance your CV.
You may also be interested in
Volunteering opportunities
Get involved with volunteering at UWE Bristol, whether it's a regular or one-off opportunity.
Reasons to volunteer
Volunteering is a great addition to your CV. It is also a good opportunity to meet new people, get out and about and have some fun, and make a difference in the local community.
Contact the Civic and Community Engagement Team
Contact us for enquiries about volunteering opportunities and recruiting volunteers.