Great - you've decided what you want from your volunteering and you're ready to take the plunge. Now it's time to find the right opportunity for you!
Read on to discover how you can find out about volunteering opportunities and what to do when you approach the organisations.
Where can I find volunteering opportunities?
You can find your local Volunteer Centre on the Volunteering England website. Volunteer Centres can put you in touch with local organisations that do the kind of work you want to do. Or you can search through volunteering opportunities yourself on a database on the Do it! website.
Check out these sites for volunteering opportunities for young people:
Through TimeBank you can register your details, what you're interested in doing and how much time you have to spare. They'll send you details of your local Volunteer Centre or an application form if you showed an interest in a particular campaign or volunteer opportunity.
REACH is a charity that helps professionals use their skills and experience in voluntary roles. Their volunteers have skills in areas such as management, entrepreneurship, marketing, IT, administration, HR, finance and accountancy.
If you want to volunteer overseas you could check out these websites:
You can get more info about volunteering from these organisations:
What do I need to know before I accept an offer of volunteering?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Find out as much as you can about the volunteering opportunity before committing to it. You want to make sure you get what you want out of it, so tell staff what you're looking for. The more open you are, the more likely you'll find an opportunity you're happy with.
You could find out:
- exactly what your role will be
- whether the organisation will pay your expenses (most will)
- whether there is any training or support.
As with a job interview, you should take sensible steps to ensure your safety:
- don't agree to meet alone in an isolated location
- do carry out further checks if anything makes you suspicious
- don't accept a lift home
- don't get drawn into a personal conversation or anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.
How can I find out more?
Our advisers can tell you more about volunteering and can help you to find an opportunity to suit you. Call the Careers Advice Service on 0800 100 900 anytime between 8am and 10pm seven days a week.
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