Since 1966, Discovery has engaged thousands of Swansea University students in volunteering projects focused on wellbeing, inclusion, youth work, and the environment. The organization is now preparing to celebrate its 60th anniversary with a year-long initiative called Discovery60, supported by nearly £14,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The grant will fund several activities throughout the year. These include Pledge 60, which invites volunteers, alumni, staff, and supporters to make pledges related to the number 60—such as volunteering for 60 hours or donating £60. Another element is bilingual story collecting; past and present volunteers can share their experiences in Welsh or English for archiving in partnership with the Richard Burton Archives.
Discovery will also publish "Discovery: A History," a collection of photos, stories, and memorabilia that will be available both in print and online. These materials will be stored in the People’s Collection Wales and the Richard Burton Archives. In March 2026, a 60th anniversary event is planned. The celebration will begin with an afternoon tea for key stakeholders and continue with a community-wide event open to all who have been involved with Discovery.
Eleanor Norton, Managing Director at Discovery SVS, said: “We are so pleased to receive this grant to help us celebrate our 60th anniversary. Discovery represents 60 years of student volunteers coming together to make the community around them safer, stronger and happier through a huge range of projects.
“We’re delighted to mark this important milestone, collect stories from across the years, and highlight the incredible impact our volunteers have made.”
Professor Paul Boyle, Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University, added: “Over its 60-year history, Discovery has formed a critical part of Swansea University’s community impact legacy. It provides opportunities for our students to participate in inclusive, community-led change and to build the skills and experience which will enable them to support their communities in the future.
“We are delighted to support this fantastic campaign, which reflects the evolution of student volunteering and how it continues to shape our mission today, as we support our students to become the change-makers of tomorrow.”
Discovery60 aims to unite different generations connected through volunteering at Swansea University while inspiring new participants. The initiative underscores values such as inclusion and community participation that have defined Discovery's work over six decades.
This commitment also contributed to Swansea University recently receiving University of Sanctuary status—a recognition that highlights efforts welcoming sanctuary seekers—with Discovery playing an active role alongside organizations like Swansea Asylum Seekers Support.