I want to volunteer 

There are many ways that you can volunteer whether you have minutes, hours or days to spare.  The list can be almost limitless and can involve everything from helping out at a school to befriending services and anything in between.  You may already be volunteering in some way and are looking for other opportunities or it may be that you are looking to gain new skills and feel that volunteering is a good way forward.  Whatever your reason there will be the right opportunity for you!

So why volunteer?

There are many reasons that people volunteer such as helping to gain employment or just the chance to try something new. 

It can help you:

• Gain new skills and experience
• Develop your skills and knowledge
• Enhance your CV
• Improve employment opportunities
• Using your skills and knowledge to help others

Volunteering also has social benefits. These include:

• Meeting new people
• Making new friends
• A chance to socialise
• Getting to know the local community

There might be other reasons that you want to volunteer such as:

• Giving something back
• A desire to make a difference to the lives of others
• Helping the environment
• Helping others less fortunate or without a voice
• Feeling part of a team
• Feeling valued
• Gaining confidence and self-esteem

What do I need to know?

There are some useful factsheets available to download from the Volunteering England site.

Know someone who is a great volunteer?

If you know someone who is an excellent volunteer and makes an outstanding contribution to their community then why not nominate them for a Volunteer Award?