Education News

Volunteering

Education News from Alleyn's | www.alleyns.org.uk

Megan Ellery-Lloyd, Head of Volunteering at Alleyn’s, tells us how volunteering can benefit your child as well as your community. Whilst ‘spare time’ can feel like an elusive concept during a hectic school term, the benefits of volunteering are immense and worthwhile. Not only could your child offer vital help to worthwhile causes and the community, they could also reap some benefits themselves.

Helping Communities

Whether sorting groceries at a food bank, working in a charity shop or spending time with the elderly, there are so many ways we can help our diverse communities thrive. By getting involved in local projects, your child will get a better understanding of how their community works, what it needs and how to create a more positive, sustainable future for everyone.

Improving Health

Giving to others can protect and improve our own mental and physical health, reduce stress and depression, build a sense of connection, boost selfconfidence, and provide mental stimulation and a sense of purpose. Volunteering is also a great way to meet like-minded people and make new friends.

Creating Proactive Citizens

Your child may well have heard news stories about these ‘unprecedented times’ and this could leave them feeling despondent and unsure that they can make a difference. Volunteering provides an opportunity to proactively contribute to improving our world – and your child will see their small actions making a big difference to others. Young people involved in social action are more likely to be open-minded, compassionate and hopeful for the future. They will gain a better awareness of what life is like for the less privileged and become more integrated into their communities.

Learning New Skills

Being exposed to different environments, situations and roles can improve life skills. Your child could improve their leadership, listening and teamwork skills, as well as their ability to communicate with people from different backgrounds. The experience may even spark an interest that provides inspiration for their future degree or career, and it might make a CV or Personal Statement stand out.

Making It Work For You

Volunteering doesn’t have to involve a long-term commitment or even masses of time. Giving in even the simplest ways can be of huge help to charities, organisations and communities. This is the case whether your child is volunteering weekly or for a short spell during the holidays. Perhaps you would like to take the organising into your own hands and go for a Sunday morning family litter pick!

Having Fun!

Finally, volunteering can be fun and rewarding. The vast array of opportunities available can provide completely new experiences and challenges. There are so many projects your child could get involved with and you can help them find something they feel passionate about. They will get so much joy from seeing the effects of their endeavours. Ultimately, it is hard to feel sad when you’re making someone else happy!

Useful Links

• www.dofe.org/thelatest/volunteering-ideas/ • www.iwill.org.uk/about-us/youth-social-action#start • www.wearencs.com/changemakers • https://targetcareers.co.uk/careers-advice/skills-and experience/894117-volunteering-for-teens