Voluntary work
Voluntary work
What is it?
Lots of different activities come under the heading of voluntary work, but they all have certain things in common.
Volunteers:
- don't get paid, although they may get expenses
- give up their own time to take part
- make a commitment to help others
- contribute to their community
- help to make things happen that otherwise wouldn't get done
Voluntary work can be done on a full or part-time basis. It's up to you to choose the amount of time you want to give.
Suitable for you?
If you are willing to give up your own time on an unpaid basis to get useful experience or mix with other people, then this could be a useful option for you.
Pros and cons
- You gain valuable work experience
- You can try something you wouldn't normally do
- It can build up your confidence
- You don't get paid
- You develop new skills
- You can add to your CV
- You learn about how other people live
- You can make new friends
- It can fill part of a gap year
- It can be demanding on your time
- Depending on the goodwill of others can be frustrating at times
