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Hosted by British Red Cross

90,000 volunteers, one remarkable legacy

A photo of some volunteer British Red Cross nurses and two soldiers

A group of British Red Cross volunteers from Belfast (Credit: British Red Cross)

More about volunteers during WW1

Members of the Voluntary Aid Detachment outside Bramhall and Cheadle Hulme Red Cross hospital.

Women during WW1

Female VADs did a variety of work during the war, from supplying aid to nursing.

Red Cross nurses line up for inspection in Fulham.

WW1 local branch list

During WW1, the Red Cross had local branch across the UK.

Norfolk War Hospital's main building

VAD casualties during WW1

Many brave Red Cross volunteers gave their lives helping wounded service men and women.

A group soldiers and civilians sell poppies to raise money for the Red Cross.

Fundraising during the First World War

Activities included shaking tins, public appeals and Christie's auctions.

Two Red Cross nurses looking a bit unsteady on a motorbike during WW1.

Who were the VAD volunteers?

Find out about how VADs were recruited, the duties carried out and awards they won.

A black and white image showing groups of Red Cross volunteers gathered among huge crowds on recruiting day in Caterham on 14 April 1915.

Overview of the Joint War Committee

The Joint War Committee organised volunteers, technical and professional staff.

In partnership with:
Heritage Fund
Imperial War Museum
Kingston University London