Accessing volunteering

Volunteering is free, and can fit in around your time commitments. It can be formal or informal. Anyone can volunteer, regardless of their immigration status.

Volunteering has many benefits including:

• Making a positive difference to people’s lives,
• Improves self-esteem and confidence,
• Improves wellbeing and mental health,
• Gaining invaluable work experience,
• Receiving high quality training and develop new skills,
• Using existing skills and knowledge to benefit your local community,
• Meeting new people from a range of backgrounds,
• Feeling valued and part of a team.

Volunteering can provide practical experience, support your CV and develop your employability skills. It can also help you explore new opportunities and gain new hobbies and interests.

Whilst volunteering is a great opportunity to improve your employability skills & CV, it should be noted that it is not employment. You may be refunded for travel and expenses (and you should check this with the organisation you are volunteering with), but you will not be paid a salary.  You have rights and responsibilities as a volunteer, but these will be different to the rights and responsibilities of a paid employee. You can find out more information on the Volunteer opportunities, rights and expenses: Volunteers’ rights website on GOV.UK.