At Paycare, we’re proud to support the people who make our communities thrive, and this summer, we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible volunteers at the heart of one of Shropshire’s most loved events.
We’ve teamed up with Shropshire Festivals ahead of the Shrewsbury Food Festival on 27–28 June 2026, launching a special campaign that celebrates the power of kindness, connection, and community spirit.
Our new campaign, From One Smile to a Million, recognises the everyday acts that make a big difference, the warm welcomes, helping hands, and shared moments that create unforgettable experiences.
As Main Sponsor and the festival’s official Health & Wellbeing Partner for 2026, we’re incredibly proud to champion the hundreds of volunteers who give their time to bring the event to life. From greeting visitors and supporting traders to helping create the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere the festival is known for, their contribution is truly invaluable.
Beth Heath, Director of Fun at Shropshire Festivals, beautifully summed it up:
“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of the Food Festival. Having Paycare champion them and their wellbeing means a huge amount to us and to the people who give their time to make this event so special.”
Throughout the festival weekend, we’ll be out and about capturing real stories from the people who make it all happen. From volunteer spotlights to spontaneous “smile moments”, we’ll be sharing authentic conversations, reactions and experiences from across the event.
Our CEO, Ant Burns, said:
“The Shrewsbury Food Festival is one of those events that reminds you just how much community spirit there is in this county. None of it happens without the volunteers who give their time so freely — and as an organisation built on supporting people through their workplace, we know just how much that kind of commitment deserves to be recognised. Standing alongside those volunteers as a main sponsor and Health & Wellbeing Partner fills us with real pride.”
With more than 24,000 visitors expected across the two-day event, the festival is a powerful example of how organisations and communities can come together to create something meaningful — supporting not only local culture, but also the regional economy.
It also reflects something we’re seeing more and more across workplaces: volunteering is becoming an important part of employee wellbeing. Giving back, building connections, and being part of something bigger can have a lasting positive impact on individuals and teams alike — particularly within the SME community across Shropshire.
Now in our 152nd year, Paycare continues to support individuals, families, and workplaces across the UK. Through our range of Health Cash Plans, we help make everyday healthcare more accessible and affordable — because looking after people is at the heart of everything we do.
🎟️ WIN tickets to the Shrewsbury Food Festival!
To celebrate this partnership, we’re giving you the chance to experience it for yourself.
We’re offering one lucky winner a pair of tickets to attend the Shrewsbury Food Festival on either Saturday 27th or Sunday 28th June 2026.
It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy fantastic food, live entertainment, and an incredible community atmosphere.
Enter below to win. The lucky winner will be contacted on Friday 26th June 2026.
Win 2 tickets to Shrewsbury Food Festival!