It’s official – so get out there and get stuck in. We’ve found some great ways you can volunteer and connect with the community
Did you know that studies have shown that being a volunteer can help prevent social isolation, improve mental health and even have a positive effect on physical health? Volunteering has been linked to lower blood pressure and living longer – not to mention that it looks great on your CV if you’re looking to give it a boost. We’re all so busy living hectic modern lives that it can be hard to imagine how anything else could be fitted in, but volunteering needn’t be a chore, and you might be amazed at the range of volunteering options on your doorstep. Take a look at some of these ideas and see if anything grabs your fancy.
Be a friend of NDADA
People who make contact with NDADA are often in need of an objective and reliable friend to support them. We also need friendly people to help with children and young people at our Devon refuge. There are a number of other ways you can volunteer for NDADA, including helping out at our RE:LOVE shop and helping with behind-the-scenes activities.
Check out our volunteering page for more info.
Find a furry companion
If you love dogs but can’t fit one into your home life, why not offer to walk a dog for your local Dogs Trust or The Cinnamon Trust which helps the elderly and terminally ill take care of their pets?
Use your transferable skills
If you have a clerical or professional skill and a few hours to spare, The Citizens Advice Bureau would love to hear from you. It relies on volunteers who can help with professional services, fundraising, IT, administration, campaigning, trusteeship and supporting witnesses.
Do you like to be beside the seaside?
Do you spend time on the coast? Why not get involved with the two minute beach clean movement? Pick up as much litter as possible in two minutes and take it to a bin – recycling what you can, of course.
Get crafty
If you have any level of ability in knitting or sewing, you could help the Special Care Baby Unit at your local hospital take care of poorly and premature babies by making comforters and other practical items.
Call 01271 311772 or email ndht.charity@nhs.net for more information.
Conserve our countryside
National Trust rangers cover a huge area and have a big task on their hands to look after the countryside around Devon and always appreciate help.
If nothing here floats your boat, get in contact with Devon Voluntary Action. The team will be able to tell you about a range of opportunities in Devon and match your skills and amount of available time with the right organisation.
