Volunteering gives you the chance to gain confidence, skills
and experience
If you are writing your CV voluntary work may improve your
chances when applying for college, university or a job.
Anyone can consider volunteering. Opportunities exist for
different periods of voluntary work. In many cases experience is
not necessary but in others it is an advantage.
Voluntary work can help with your future career. For example, if
you want to be a veterinary surgeon then some voluntary work with
animals is highly recommended. Similarly, if you want to be a
teacher or go into social work then voluntary work with children or
those needing help can be an advantage.
But even if your volunteering is not specifically vocational, it
shows a level of commitment to others, discipline and willingness
to help.
For information on whether you can claim benefits while
volunteering see this
page on our site.
These are some examples of where to look for
volunteering opportunities.
Do-it is an easy to
use site with details of lots of opportunities
Volunteering
England for projects around the country.
VInspired
The Princes
Trust
CSV (Community
Service Volunteers)
Voluntary Service
Overseas (VSO)
Duke of Edinburgh
Youth Action
Network