What is volunteering?
The national definition of volunteering is any activity that involves spending time, unpaid, doing something that aims to benefit the environment or someone (individuals or groups) other than, or in addition to, close relatives.
Central to this definition is the fact that volunteering must be a choice freely made by each individual.
It can include formal activity undertaken through public and voluntary organisations as well as informal community participation. Check out local volunteer stories.
Why Volunteer?
Everyone is different but there are some common reasons why people decide to volunteer. They will volunteer to:
- give something back to an organisation that has made a difference to a person's life
- make a difference to the lives of others
- help people less fortunate or who are without a voice
- offer their professional skills, experience and knowledge to benefit others
Sometimes it is their own hobbies or interests or their children’s activities that lead to the volunteering. For example they might volunteer to:
- promote or encourage an activity, hobby or sport they really enjoy
- improve the area they live in
- help out where their children go to school
- help out at a club or class their children go to
For some, volunteering can be a step towards employment, or a chance to think about a career change. For these people volunteering is a chance to:
- feel valued and part of a team
- gain confidence and self-esteem
- gain new skills, knowledge and experience
- develop existing skills and knowledge
- enhance a CV
- gain an accreditation
For others, volunteering appeals because of its social benefits. These include:
- meeting new people and making new friends
- a chance to socialise
- getting to know the local community
Click here to search Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside volunteer opportunities. Alternatively telephone us on 0161 339 2345 for a chat and to make a confidential, informal appointment with one of our advisors.