Volunteering: What's in it for me?
Young volunteers say they get a lot from getting involved in community and youth work. And, it’s not just about the ‘feel good’ factor of helping other people. Here are just some of the benefits:
· meeting new people and making friends
· feeling part of something worthwhile
· working as part of a team
· getting valuable work experience
· learning about yourself – what you want to get out of life, and what you’re prepared to put into it
· learning new skills – from ‘soft’ skills like teamwork to practical job-related skills
· doing something you enjoy – and having some fun
· having something really positive to add to your CV.
You may get the chance to volunteer through your school, or as part of a youth award programme – like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
People of all ages take part in volunteering. It’s not just for gap year students or older people. Young people bring their own special brand of energy and enthusiasm to volunteering.
Some volunteering opportunities are only open to over-18s. And, there are some restrictions for under-16s, often for Health and Safety reasons. But, there are opportunities for younger volunteers.
You may be able to get involved in volunteering if you are taking part in one of the national training programmes designed to improve young people’s employability skills – like Get Ready for Work.
Interested?
If you’d like to find out more, contact your local Volunteer Centre (see the Volunteer Centre Network Scotland website) and ask to speak to a volunteer development adviser. They won’t expect you to volunteer on the spot! Before you get started you’ll need to talk about what’s involved in volunteering, what opportunities are available in your area, and what you want to get out of the experience.
In February 2011 the UK Government launched a new volunteering scheme designed to help people who are unemployed get back into work. Advisers from The Prince's Trust and other local government voluntary organisations will work in Jobcentre Plus offices to signpost jobseekers of all ages to volunteering and training opportunities in their area.
In August 2011 the Scottish Government launched a new programme called Community Jobs Scotland (CJS). Aimed mainly at 16-24 year olds who have been unemployed for six months or more it will involve working for a local community or voluntary organisation for six months or more. Those taking part will work on contracts of 25 hours or more a week and will be paid at least the national minimum wage.
If you are under 18 you need a referral from a Skills Development Scotland adviser.
Contact your local Jobcentre Plus office or Skills Development Scotland careers centre for more information.
Want more information?
Here are some other useful contacts:
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