What young people say
- ‘Employers told me I needed to improve my skills. Doing voluntary work has given new skills this AND I’m having a great time’
- ‘I wanted to put something back into the community’
- ‘Voluntary work is great, I’ve got the chance to do something really positive and I’m getting qualifications to prove it!
- ‘I wanted something to do whilst I waited to go off to university- voluntary work was the answer’
- I had no idea I could do volunteering overseas until I looked into it’
The benefits from doing a period of voluntary work are endless.
If you need to add to your skills, gain new experiences or put something back into your community, the chances are that you’ll find a voluntary opportunity that will meet your needs.
Opportunities are available at home and overseas- although you may have to pay to do some of the international placements.
So what are you waiting for?
To help you make up your mind if voluntary work for you, is for you here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions:
Will I get paid?
Some voluntary placements do offer pocket money, but many are charities and can not afford to offer payment. Also the nature of voluntary work is all about helping to give something out and getting something back.
However, you might get your travelling expenses and sometimes meal allowances.
How long are the placements?
The length of each placement can range from a few hours on one day up to a long term commitment lasting many months on a full time basis.
Will I need experience?
As in paid jobs, many placements ask people to apply to make sure that they get the right skills and qualifications needed for the opportunity and organisation.
Voluntary work is a great way to get on the first step of many types of career and college or university courses.
I like the idea, so where can I get more information?
Try any of these organisations for volunteering advice and opportunities
Call in to the Connexions centre or use the information in your school or college Connexions information centre.