World Stroke Day takes place on 29 October, and the 2026 campaign spotlights the life-saving importance of knowing the signs of stroke. Every minute counts, and the person who recognises what is happening is usually not a clinician.
When is World Stroke Day?
World Stroke Day is observed on 29 October each year. It is one of the many UK awareness days that bring people together around a shared cause, and you can see the full calendar.
Why World Stroke Day matters
A stroke happens suddenly, and what someone nearby does in the first minutes shapes the rest of a life. Recovery afterwards is long and often lonely, and the practical help that makes it bearable comes from people who give their time: communication support, exercise groups, transport to appointments, company. Explore health and well-being volunteering.
How to get involved in World Stroke Day
There are three simple ways to make World Stroke Day count:
- Volunteer with a stroke or rehabilitation group supporting people through recovery and back into everyday life. Browse opportunities.
- Fundraise for stroke research and for the community services survivors and their families rely on.
- Raise awareness by learning the signs of stroke and passing them on, because the person who spots one is usually a bystander.
World Stroke Day volunteering opportunities
Mark World Stroke Day by doing something real. Find volunteering opportunities and start today.
Get involved with World Stroke Day
Browse live opportunities, log your hours, and earn verified badges you can add to your CV and LinkedIn. Find volunteering roles or see more awareness days.
Other October Dates
Baby Loss Awareness Week
October 9-15
Back Care Awareness Week
October 2-8
Black History Month
1-31
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
1-31
Dyslexia Awareness Week
October 5-11
Hospice Care Week
October 5-11
Infection Prevention Control Week
October 19-25
International Day of Older Persons
October 1
International Pronouns Day
October 21
International Stammering Awareness Day
October 22
National Cholesterol Month
1-31
National Hate Crime Awareness Week
October 10-17
National Work Life Week
October 5-9
Sober October
1-31
Speak Up Month
October
Stoptober
1-31
Wear It Pink
October 23
World Food Day
October 16
World Habitat Day
October 5
World Homeless Day
October 10
World Menopause Day
October 18
World Mental Health Day
October 10
World Smile Day
October 2
World Teachers' Day
October 5
Get involved with World Stroke Day
An account lets you apply to these roles, log your hours and earn awards for them.
Running something for World Stroke Day? Post a role free