Volunteering is about freely giving your time, skills and help

If you’ve never volunteered before it may seem like a big step to start volunteering, but it’s easier than you might think!

There are lots of different opportunities out there and so many charitable groups who would love your help.

Start by finding an opportunity that appeals to you, it might be something you’re familiar with already or it might be something completely different. Then it’s just a matter of what time you can spare, and when – usually positions are for a few hours each week or month.

Who can volunteer?

YOU!

Volunteering is open and accessible to as many people as possible – and we think everyone should try it!

You can usually volunteer if you are looking for work, claiming most benefits, in work, in education or an asylum seeker nor eligible to do paid work.

Volunteering offers the chance to gain new skills or a new perspective. It can be a great way to meet new people and build confidence in different situations.

Volunteering can also help you feel really good about yourself – because you get to help others, contribute to your local community and champion good causes – all of which can be great for your own mental health and wellbeing.

Are you ready to take the first step and discover opportunities?

Young People

For young people, volunteering can open up a world of opportunity. There are lower age restrictions on some roles, of 16 or 18, but there are some roles for under 16s.

Volunteering enables young people to:

gain valuable real-life experience
gain practical and social skills
develop new interests
interact with people outside of their peer group
gain self-confidence
feel less anxious

Older people

For older people, volunteering can provide support and companionship.

Volunteering enables old people to:

socialise
share their skills and experience
explore new interests
contribute to the community
feel valued
build relationships

People from diverse communities

For people from diverse communities volunteering can provide an inclusive and non-judgmental place.

Volunteering enables people from diverse communities to:

contribute unique skills
share their lived experiences
feel respected
be part of their community, or forge new communities
a freedom of expression
find a supportive peer group
be valued

Explore Volunteer Opportunities

How To Volunteer

You can contact or visit our Volunteer Centre to discuss how and where you can volunteer, we will provide individual assistance to identify the right roles and organisations.

You can also search and apply to current volunteering vacancies online using the Volunteer Centre Leeds platform – visit the Search Volunteer Opportunities page.

You can create a personal profile and join organisations or projects you are interested in. If you can’t find what you are looking for, please let us know!

You will usually need to meet or speak to an organisation and complete an application before you volunteer. You usually be expected to make a commitment to attend on a regular basis and you must let the organisation know any support needs you may have.

What volunteering opportunities are there?

There’s such a wide variety of voluntary work available that you’re sure to find something that interests and suits you.

We have opportunities from small community groups, local and national charities, as well as health and social services.

You could volunteer to work with:

elderly people
children and youth
computers and admin
sports projects
disability groups
refugees and asylum seekers

women’s groups
the environment
arts and music
advice/helplines
animals
and much much more…

What to expect

You are likely to be volunteering for a not-for-profit, charitable, or statutory organisation, where they will give you clear guidance on your role/requirements and provide any training to help you do your role.

You should expect to be welcomed and appreciated for your time and often you will see the direct difference your help makes to others.

You should usually expect to receive any travel expenses to and from or during your volunteering activity and any additional costs such as DBS checks or equipment should be covered by the organisation.

Organisations should also provide regular support and supervision to all their volunteers.

The details and logistics of each volunteer position will vary between organisations and teams, but you’ll always be able to ask questions – it’s normally one person who can answer any queries you may have.

Volunteering Top Tips

When deciding which volunteering role is right for you, think about a number of factors. This could include your current or previous skills and experience or skills you want to gain and develop.

Think about how much time you can offer, most organisations are flexible but will expect reliable attendance, especially for training or supporting their service users.

You may also need to consider the location where you volunteer and how long it will take you to get there, there are opportunities in almost all the areas and postcodes across Leeds but you may travel further for some roles. Alternatively, there are home based roles where you may not need to travel but have access to IT or a phone.

If you are not available on a regular basis you could choose to help out with one-off activities or events. Choose something you enjoy!

Find what you are looking for

Learn About Volunteering

Volunteering is about freely giving your time, skills and help

Who can volunteer?