Ever thought about volunteering? A short introduction to the benefits of volunteering and how to start.

Why volunteer? People volunteer for lots of different reasons. Everyone has something they can give to and gain from volunteering. In groups, think about what you can give and gain as a volunteer. Here are some things you may have thought of:

Guylene, Digital Mentor, MAES ‘Volunteering has given me new friends, new interests, a more positive outlook and confidence. I have also gained employment as I’ve now found a job as a French Language Assistant in a high school.’

What do volunteers do? Everything and anything! There are lots of volunteering opportunities in and around Manchester. Before you start looking for an opportunity, you’ll need to answer these questions: Why do you want to volunteer? Is it to meet new people, build your confidence, use your talents, get work experience or all of the above What do you want to do? Think about the things you enjoy and/or are good at, as well as what you would like to do in the future. How much time can you give and how often do you want to volunteer? What skills have you got to offer?

Support people to improve their digital skills and/or find work as a Digital or Work Club Mentor MAES Support people to learn English as a volunteer teacher or friend as part of the Talk English project Talk English Volunteer with libraries, parks, at events and more. Manchester City Council Find lots of different opportunities in Manchester and access training for volunteers Volunteer Centre Manchester Search thousands of opportunities in the UK and even overseas! Do-it Volunteer in hospitals, health centres and community outreach with the NHS NHS Volunteer as a Police Support Volunteer and receive training and support. Police Volunteer with the Fire Service and receive training and support. Fire & Rescue There’s nothing like approaching organisations directly- pop-in, phone up or send a letter or Contact organisations directly Finding volunteer opportunities Click on the links to find local opportunities. But remember, there’s nothing like approaching organisations directly by popping-in or phoning up.

Need further advice? Book an appointment with an Adviser from the Learner Services team in your MAES centre Drop-in to a Work Club Plus to get support finding and applying for volunteering opportunities Enrol on a Preparing to Volunteer course (ask your teacher or at reception)