Over lock down we’ve seen a massive increase in those volunteering virtually. Faye, one of your volunteering ambassadors, has been doing some research on how you can get involved and has written this fantastic blog!

One thing we’ve probably all experienced recently is a feeling of loneliness. Spending time alone isn’t always a choice at the moment, but one thing we can choose to do is to reach out to others. With the second lockdown well underway it is just as important now as ever to stay connected to others.

Volunteering opportunities present many varied and fulfilling ways to connect with your community. Charities are facing huge challenges as a result of coronavirus restrictions. The community has become even more dependent on the vital services offered by charities which often rely heavily on fundraising and volunteers.

What opportunities are available? 

The landscape for volunteering is changing. Firstly, there are many ways you can directly help people affected by the pandemic. Community groups are helping to combat loneliness throughout self-isolation by setting up befriending services. Check your local area for recruitment opportunities. If you have less time to volunteer, consider donating to local food banks helping to redistribute food and other necessities.

New possibilities?

Virtual volunteering from home has become more common as charities are adapting their services. However, with its challenges, online volunteering has also presented some new possibilities in areas such as media and communications, research and tutoring/ mentoring. Mentoring a student whose education has been disrupted could make an immeasurable difference to the continuity of their studies. Sharing advice about anything ranging from university applications to time management could help ease anxiety and inspire other students.

The time commitments for these opportunities vary and are available in a variety of sectors. Meaning you can still gain experience and work towards your own career goal whilst helping someone else along the way. Win, win!

Please find out more about positions available on the LSE career hub. Alternatively, you can book a one to one meeting with our volunteer manager to find out more about work that maybe suited to you, or reach out to the student volunteering ambassadors.

What else can I do?

If you’re feeling inspired to be a bit more creative, why not try fundraising! Endless zoom quizzes characterised the first lockdown; perhaps you could sell tickets for a quiz night and donate to an important cause. If you find crafting therapeutic Mind UK are holding a ‘Crafternoon’. Bring friends and family together and raise money to make sure no one faces a mental health problem alone.

Devoting some time to a cause you’re passionate about has an enormous positive impact both for the issue at hand and for our wellbeing. Getting to know someone new and connecting through volunteering can help us all work through the challenges we’re facing globally. It’s important to stay safe and follow guidelines but also to look after your own wellbeing and to try to support your friends, family and neighbours.

If Faye has inspired you to volunteer, check out one of our other ongoing opportunities  You can also book a one-to-one with David Coles, the Volunteer Centre Manager if you have more questions. And why not follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay up-to-date with our events and opportunities and read our blog for more volunteering tips and stories.