I want to volunteer
Thinking about volunteering or want to search for volunteering? You’ve come to the right place.
Have you thought of being a Trustee?
Volunteering as a Trustee is a great way to make a difference and support a cause you care about and no, you don’t have to have been a Trustee before or are already one.
What is volunteering?
Mel (Volunteer Centre Coordinator) joined the Launchpad Collective to share invaluable insights into volunteering and things to consider.
Watch this film to find out more….
Not sure where to start? Looking for help in your search for volunteering?
Hear from Manqi (Volunteer Centre Advisor) about our matching and guidance service and “following your curiosity”:
What does a typical day look like when you volunteer:
I’ve been volunteering with the Volunteer Centre team for nearly 10 years. As a volunteer advisor in the team, my main mission is to help members of the public find volunteering roles.
Every Thursday, I answer enquiries from the public via email and telephone. By having detailed discussions with volunteers, I can learn more about their interests, skills, goals, and preferences, and then provide tailored volunteering suggestions. On the first Thursday of every month, I run a drop-in session at Jobcentre Plus, where I meet clients face-to-face and offer volunteering advice.
What do you enjoy about being part of the team?
I am very grateful for the support I have received from Volunteer Centre and Community Works. They always make me feel part of a team. Volunteering has helped me feel more connected with the community and with others. It has also given me a sense of purpose that goes beyond day-to-day routines. I feel that I don’t just match people with roles — I also make them feel supported and help them discover purpose and connection. Every person I help can make a difference in the world, and that is the best feeling.
If you are thinking about volunteering but are not too sure, here are Manqi's three tips
- Keep in mind that you are better than you think! Everyone has potential and strengths; you just need to find the right fit.
- Follow your curiosity. Think about your interests and what you care about. Volunteering is most rewarding when it feels meaningful to you.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to us—we can guide you and help find a role that suits your lifestyle and goals.
Are you a business looking to offer your time?
Whether it’s as a team or individually, volunteering may form part of your Employer Supported Volunteering (ESV) or the wider Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda. Sometimes it can be because a team of people have requested it.
If charities or community groups are able to offer these types of opportunities, they will be mutually beneficial but most importantly will match their current needs.
To help, we have created guidance for businesses on what to consider when looking for opportunities and connecting with local charities and groups.