Why Volunteer?
There are many reasons why people volunteer. For some, volunteering can
be a route to employment, or a chance to try something new which may lead to a career
change. From this perspective, volunteering can be a way of:
• Gaining new skills, knowledge and experience
• Developing existing skills and knowledge
• Enhancing a CV
• Improving one's employment prospects
• Gaining an accreditation
• Using one's professional skills and knowledge to benefit others (usually
described as pro bono)
For others, volunteering appeals because of its social benefits. These include:
• Meeting new people
• Making new friends
• A chance to socialise
• Getting to know the local community
On top of this, many people volunteer for a variety of other reasons, such as:
• Giving something back to an organisation that has impacted on a person's life,
either directly or indirectly
• A desire to make a difference to the lives of others
• Helping the environment
• Helping others less fortunate or without a voice
• Feeling part of a team
• Feeling valued
• Having quality time away from work or a busy lifestyle
• Building up trust
• Gaining confidence and self-esteem
• Finding a volunteering role that suits one's own needs and lifestyle
With the wide variety of volunteering opportunities that are available today, there
is bound to be something for everyone. Another reason for its popularity is that
volunteering is open to all.
It's official: Volunteering is good for you
Where do I start?
Volunteer Centres are often a good place to start looking for volunteering opportunities
in the local area. They can find out what you're interested in doing, and try to match you
with a suitable volunteering role with a local charity or voluntary organisation.
Volunteering Lancashire is made up of partner organisations who all have an interest in
volunteering – click onto one of our partners for more information on what they can offer
you.
How much time do I need to volunteer for?
You can volunteer for as long as you want, at any time of the week, day, evening or
even weekends. Different opportunities require different commitments.
I am looking for work, will volunteering help me?
Yes, volunteering will certainly help you to widen your experiences with people, build up
transferable skills and show both commitment and motivation – something employers
really value.
Do I need experience or qualifications to volunteer?
No - each opportunity is different and will require different skills but no formal
qualifications are required. In summary many of our opportunities require the following
qualities:-
• Good communication and listening skills
• Friendly
• Ability to respect principles of confidentiality
• Willingness to offer commitment and reliability
Will volunteering affect my benefits?
No - the benefits regulations are clear that you can volunteer.
Please see the Volunteering England website for detailed and up to date information on
volunteering whilst you are claiming welfare benefits.
There is also a Department of Work and Pensions Leaflet called "volunteering whilst on
benefits" which contains more information.