Voluntary work - what next?
Voluntary work - what next?
What could I do as a volunteer?
You could do a wide range of different things (although there may be age restrictions for some activities):
- clean up the local river
- befriend people who are isolated
- help a charity with fundraising
- work in a community advice project
- help out on a summer playscheme
- work at home or abroad on conservation projects
How do I volunteer?
Think about the amount of time you want to devote to voluntary work. Are you planning to spend a couple of hours per week, or committing yourself full time for a period of months?
Once you are clear about this, you will have a better idea of the types of organisations to approach, and what opportunities will suit you.
There are likely to be local organisations looking for volunteers – e.g:
- Charities
- Community groups/projects
- Environmental agencies
- Specialist interest groups
You may see adverts or articles in newspapers or directories.
The main network of volunteer agencies in Scotland is found at Volunteer Scotland. This website is designed for people who want to volunteer or find out more about volunteering. It provides links to their national database of volunteering opportunities.
Other Useful websites
Community Service Volunteers (CSV)
Provides a range of voluntary opportunities throughout Britain.
Ecoteer
Places volunteers in projects ranging from conservation, ecotourism, teaching, farm and humanitarian aid.
findaGap.com
From cheap gap year travel to finding a volunteer organisation and project, findaGap.com will help find out what is available, where it can be done and how much it costs.
Gap Year website
The definitive guide to taking a gap year between school and further study.
Global Volunteer Network
Places volunteers in community projects worldwide.
Good Moves
Opportunities in not for profit and voluntary sector organisations.
ProjectScotland
A revolutionary volunteering organisation for those aged 16-25. Placements are full time (30 hours per week) and last between 3 - 12 months. You will receive a subsistence allowance of £55 per week plus travel expenses.
reach
Reach matches the skills of experienced people to the needs of voluntary organisations.
SCVO
The umbrella body for voluntary organisations in Scotland.
TimeBank is a national charity inspiring and connecting people to share and give time. TimeBank appeals to people like you who know that their time and skills are in demand - but just don't know what to do about it or where to start.
Voluntary Worker
Voluntary Worker gives you all the information and advice you need to find any type of Voluntary Work all over the world, at any age!
Volunteering Highland provide a link between volunteers and voluntary organisations. It helps individuals choose a voluntary position and promotes volunteering opportunities throughout the Highlands.
Work with Us
A comprehensive directory of Scottish charities and voluntary organistions. You can search by factors such as location and type of work.
Year Out Group
Offers extensive links and general guidelines for students planning a year out.
Young Scot Volunteering
Information specifically for young people on volunteering in Scotland.
