Volunteering is a great way to gain experience and to improve your confidence and self-esteem. It is something you can do in your spare time but you can also volunteer full-time after leaving school, provided you are also undertaking some part-time study or training. Below you will find some useful organisations that can help you find volunteering opportunities.
It's about giving your time to do something useful, without getting paid (apart from expenses).
In return you get the satisfaction of time and effort well spent. In addition, volunteering can be a great way to:
Meet new people and learn new skills, which are useful experiences to improve further progression opportunities .
It should also be fun! The range of opportunities is huge. Whatever skills and experience you have, there is something that you can do.
The biggest problem for many people is finding the time to volunteer. It can reduce your choices if you don't have much time to spare, but many busy people do find suitable opportunities.
There are no age-limits on volunteering, but there can sometimes be difficulties for people under-16 or over-65, mostly for insurance reasons. If you have any concerns, ask the organisation that you are applying to.
Once you start volunteering you should usually expect:
Payment of out-of pocket expenses (eg travel)
A clear idea of what your role will be
Appropriate training and support.
Millions of people in this country already volunteer, but many more are needed.