When we talk about health and wellbeing, the last thing you probably think about is volunteering, right? So, you’re probably wondering why we’re even talking about volunteering. Well, with good reason, that’s why! Volunteering has many benefits for your health and wellbeing and we’re going to discuss in more detail the benefits of volunteering to your health and wellbeing, and the places you can look to volunteer.
The latest research from CAF's latest research shows that around 5.6 million people volunteered in 2024, which represents just 10% of the UK population.
So why not look at volunteering near you and see what benefits it can bring to you.
How does volunteering help my health and wellbeing?
There’s no financial payment for volunteering (though most will offer to cover the cost of your travel), the impact of volunteering is priceless. You benefit, and so does the charity or the organisation you’re volunteering for. Regardless of your age, the health and wellbeing impact can be physical, mental and emotional health. Volunteering can help to keep you mentally stimulated, improve your self-confidence and provide you with a sense of purpose. What’s not to love about that?
What are the benefits of volunteering?
Every volunteer will get something different from their experience, but here are a few of the benefits volunteering can bring including:
- Improved mental health
The act of doing good or giving something back can help boost your mood and overall happiness. This boost can help to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. - Enhanced physical health
Even if it’s light physical work that your volunteering involves, just moving and getting more active helps you stay active and healthy. - Increased self-confidence and esteem
Knowing you’ve helped contribute to something you’re passionate or care about helps give a sense of achievement and pride. This sense of achievement helps to improve self-esteem and give a positive view on life. - A sense of purpose
Whether you’re retired, looking for something new to try or even at a career crossroads, volunteering provides new meaning and direction in life. Volunteering helps to keep you mentally stimulated which has a positive impact on your health and wellbeing. - Meeting new people
Getting out and volunteering means you can expand your social network and meet people with shared interests. It can help you feel more connected to your community of like-minded people. - Developing social skills
There many social skills that volunteering will allow you to improve on or practice and develop such as active listening, empathy, and teamwork. - Gaining new skills and experience
If you’re looking for opportunities to learn new, valuable skills volunteering can offer that. From problem-solving, communication to learning more practical skills, these are all valuable and something you can gain from.
Where can I volunteer?
There are many places that you can volunteer! It all depends on if you have a particular area or interest that you’d like to explore. Here are some places you can look to get your started on your volunteering journey:
Start your volunteering journey and see where it takes you!