With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits of volunteering are enormous to you and your community. The right volunteering opportunity  can help you find friends, reach out to the community, learn new skills, and even advance your career.

Some university courses and careers require a certain amount of work experience, such as in the early years and care sectors. Even if you can't secure work experience directly in your related career choice, having any type of work experience which displays key skills such as team work, communication, good attendance and punctuality and customer service can go a long way. 

Remember, for certain jobs, you will need to be DBS Checked. The organisation you volunteer for may organise this for you but make sure you check in advance.

The following information can help you to find volunteering opportunities in your area and how to apply.

If you can’t find what you are looking for, try approaching local businesses that you would like to work for and offer to volunteer. Many Charities will welcome volunteers.