Discovering the Best Places to Volunteer in London: A Guide for Newcomers

As a newcomer to London, you might find it challenging to find a suitable voluntary position, but this is precisely how Britain thrives. London offers an abundance of opportunities due to its large population, making it a bustling hub for various volunteering activities.

Step 1: Identify Your Skills

The first step is to identify your skills and how they can be beneficial to an organization. Consider the skills you already possess, such as sales assistance, hospital visiting, childcare, teaching, IT maintenance, driving, sailing instruction, and interpreting. These skills can be both short-term and long-term commitments, depending on your interests and availability.

Step 2: Determine Your Initial Goals

Think about what you want to start your volunteering journey with. It could be anything from working at a charity shop, community center, or sports club to assisting in a museum, school, or even supporting a local church. Be open to various roles and responsibilities, as you might find that what you initially thought you wanted turns out to be fulfilling in a different way.

Step 3: Check Requirements and Availability

Ensure that you meet any suitability checks or have an appropriate backer if this is a requirement. Also, verify that you truly have the time to commit to a schedule. Be prepared to discuss this with the organization you approach. This will help you both commit to a lasting and mutually beneficial relationship.

Step 4: Explore Local Opportunities

Once you have your skills and goals sorted, you can start exploring local opportunities. Visit local centers of worship, hospitals, sports clubs, charity shops, homeless shelters, addiction centers, and museums. Don’t forget to check out local publications, library noticeboards, and relevant websites for additional opportunities.

Tips: Start your search by visiting local websites or by asking locals for recommendations. Many churches and community centers provide resources for volunteers and can help you find suitable opportunities.

Virtual Volunteering

For those who prefer a more flexible approach, there is a growing trend of virtual volunteering, which allows you to contribute from home or any internet-connected location. This innovative form of volunteering offers a wide range of tasks, including transcription, translation, website content creation, data entry, and remote tutoring. Explore websites like VolunteerMatch and In A Place to find virtual volunteering opportunities.

Virtual volunteering can be a great way to find new charities and discover the types of tasks you are interested in. It offers the flexibility to work around your schedule and can be a fulfilling way to contribute to society. Consider trying a virtual volunteering gig to see how it fits with your interests and availability.

The end goal is to find a volunteering position that aligns with your skills and aspirations. With the right approach and a bit of persistence, you will surely find a role that is both rewarding and enriching.

Code for Progress:
- Volunteering London
- Volunteer England
- In A Place
- VolunteerMatch