I have worked for a number of voluntary organisations over the years. It is very rewarding and gives me a sense of well being. It is hard after a day's work but when I come home, I feel I have done something beneficial rather than just watching the TV.
At present I volunteer for Victim Support. It is a free and confidential service that offers practical and emotional support to victims of crime. My work usually consists of two hours a week, depending on the needs of the individual victim. The victim is sent a letter informing them of the support we can offer. A volunteer will then follow this up with a phone call. If the victim requests support, this is done on the phone, in the victim's home or a more convenient place can be agreed.
Comprehensive training is given and all out-of-pocket expenses are paid. Training consists of seven days spread out over a month. Following a six month probationary period, you have the chance to do further training. There are also opportunities to help in other ways for example with fundraising and publicity, office administration or with translation and interpreting.
People associate volunteering with having to give up a lot of their free time but this is not always the case. Most organisations do have a minimum requirement. But I would encourage you to contact them for further details. The benefit of volunteering can spill over into all aspects of daily life by increasing your confidence, knowledge and the opportunity to develop new skills.
I can certainly recommend volunteering. It's a great way of meeting new people and you feel you are giving something back to the community. You can choose an organisation that you have a specific interest in, or you might want to try something completely different.
The telephone number of your nearest Victim Support Office can be found in your local telephone directory.
Find out more about the ways to volunteer.
East Sussex County Council