Volunteer Stories

Six years ago, Bob O’Connor closed a chapter on a long and fulfilling career in business and returned to the rolling hills of Somerset to enjoy what he thought would be a quieter way of life. Retirement, however, had other plans. What began as a desire to give back soon evolved into a deeply rewarding second act—one rooted in compassion, community, and a lifelong love of animals. Here's his story: "After 16 years at the helm of an international animal charity based in Kent, I wasn’t quite ready to hang up my boots. In 2019, I joined the Board of Trustees at Ferne Animal Sanctuary , a place whose mission and values resonated deeply with me. Within a year, I was honoured to be appointed Chair—a role I’ve proudly held for the past five years. Ferne is more than just a sanctuary; it’s a lifeline for animals in need and a beacon of hope for those who care about their welfare. As Chair, my role is to support and guide the strategic direction of the charity, ensuring we remain true to our founding principles while adapting to the ever-evolving challenges of animal welfare. From governance and fundraising to community engagement and long-term planning, my business background has proven invaluable in helping Ferne thrive. But my commitment to animal welfare doesn’t stop there. I also serve as a Trustee for the Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary in Essex, where I chair the Finance Committee. Remus is a sanctuary with a heart as big as its paddocks, offering a safe haven for horses, ponies, and donkeys who have suffered neglect or abandonment. Overseeing the financial health of the charity is a responsibility I take seriously—it’s about ensuring every pound is used wisely to support the animals who rely on us. Balancing these roles is a joy, not a burden. The dedication of the staff and volunteers at both Ferne and Remus is nothing short of inspiring. Their tireless work reminds me daily why I chose this path post-retirement. It’s a privilege to be part of organisations that make such a tangible difference. Looking back, I never imagined that retirement would be so full of purpose. But in many ways, this chapter has been the most meaningful yet. To anyone considering giving their time to a cause close to their heart, I can only say this: do it. The rewards are immeasurable, the friendships enduring, and the impact—on both animals and people—truly life-changing." To find out more about becoming a Trustee in Somerset, please click the link below.

Join a special in-person event celebrating volunteers and community groups across our county.

Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership (SASP) are a champion of inclusive volunteering, particularly for individuals with disabilities. With a strong commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering equality, SASP has developed several initiatives designed to make volunteering accessible to all. Central to this effort is the Fit for Work programme , which empowers individuals with disabilities by helping them build confidence, acquire new skills, and transition into meaningful volunteer roles. Managed by SASP’s disability team, the Fit for Work programme provides a supportive environment where individuals can develop their skills practically, build their confidence and ability to work in a team. Through these elements, participants are equipped with the tools to lead, support, and engage in a variety of activities both within and outside the workplace. The impact of this programme is evident through the success stories of its graduates, who have gone on to become volunteers within SASP and other organisations. These graduates actively contribute to various events and initiatives, providing support to other individuals with disabilities and furthering the impact of the programme. Two great examples of Fit for Work graduates who have transitioned into volunteering roles are Tom and Betty. Tom has gone on to volunteer at subsequent Fit for Work courses. By sharing his own experiences, Tom is able to empathise with new participants, helping them overcome challenges and find success. He views his volunteer work as a way of giving back to the programme that had such a positive impact on him. Betty has volunteered at an Inclusive Sports Day organised by Nova Sports , where she assisted adults with disabilities in trying new sports and activities. She also regularly volunteers at the Sedgemoor Stars session, a physical activity programme designed for adults with disabilities. Betty finds volunteering incredibly rewarding, as it has helped her develop her confidence, make new friends, and gain valuable leadership experience. Reflecting on her experience, Betty shares: “I loved Fit for Work; I really enjoyed it. It was really fun, and I got to meet new people. I learnt to help other people and helped people get involved with activities. I learnt how to communicate and work as a team, and this has helped me with my volunteering when I am leading.” One of the key challenges faced by individuals with disabilities when considering volunteering opportunities is the concern that they may not have the necessary support or that their disability may prevent them from participating. Through conversations with participants in the Fit for Work programme, SASP identified that many individuals worry they won’t be able to meet expectations or perform the tasks required. Betty emphasises the importance of being confident when discussing needs with employers: “A common concern for people with disabilities is that they won’t be able to do it or won’t have the right support. Be confident to talk to your employer so they can understand what needs you have and how they can best support you. When you have the right support, you can do great things.” She encourages others to try volunteering, even if they have reservations: “Just give it a go, you don’t know unless you try. You might find something you are good at or really enjoy. Volunteering gives you lots of energy and boosts your social skills, it helps you make new friends”. SASP’s approach to inclusive volunteering has proven to be highly effective in creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Through initiatives like the Fit for Work programme and the Volunteer in Somerset Campaign , SASP has demonstrated that, with the right support, people with disabilities can become valuable, confident, and active participants in their communities. These programmes not only encourage participation but also provide the foundation for individuals to take on leadership roles and make lasting impacts on the lives of others. For more information on volunteering opportunities with SASP, please click here:

"I think more young people should volunteer to help others.”

“I really recommend volunteering to others. It provides a sense of purpose and self-worth while allowing you to meet new people from different backgrounds"

"What works for me is simply getting out and walking in nature and journaling in the morning." Meet Gabriella, one of Spark Somerset's newest and youngest Open Mental Health Champions who volunteers at The Good Heart Café support group in Frome, twice a month. She took time out recently to share her journey with mental health, why she wanted to become an Open Mental Health Champion and suggests some practical steps young people can take to look after their own mental health this Youth Mental Health Day. "I've been in and out of the mental health system for over 10 years. It was really my own struggles in life that I found very challanging growing up. Everyone struggles at times. I learnt how to navigate my diagnosis and found out what works best to keep my mind healthy. "This has been a really long learning journey of mine, one that I am still on. I think that everyone's different and different things work for different people. But, what I've found works for me is really simple; being in nature, walking in nature and journaling in the morning. "So, in the morning I write what's on my mind. Any kind of issues that are going on for me and I just write them down, in my journal. It has been my absolute saviour because sometimes there's not always anyone there to pick up the phone. Sometimes you don't feel like you want to talk to anyone about certain situations because you don't even know how you feel. "Journaling has been really, really helpful for me to bring some positivity and some clarity around how I think and how I feel. I try to build healthy habits which bring me joy. Journaling is one of those habits. "If you are struggling with how you feel, how you think, then just talk to someone you know you can trust. You don't have to suffer in silence. I'm sure there will be some positivity you can take away and build some steps to change the way you think and feel because it doesn't have to be such a struggle. You don't have to suffer; you don't have to struggle alone "My role as a Champion involves talking with the community and getting what Open Mental Health is about out there; what we do as an organisation and opening discussion around mental health in general. "The support groups I help at take place at The Good Heart Café in Frome on the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month from 10 till 11:30am. It's a space where people can come, have a cup of tea or coffee and share anything that feels heavy for them or that they are finding difficult at the moment." If Gabriella's story has inspired you to get involved in volunteering for Open Mental Health, click the link below to see their current opportunities.

"To be involved with literally uncovering the past is something that I will always be grateful for."

I'm incredibly grateful for all the opportunities and support I've been given; I don't see a future without volunteering now."

"It’s good to know that what you're doing is having a direct impact on people's lives."

"By encouraging corporate volunteer groups to explore nature restoration, we are setting a powerful example about how we can care for our planet and the impact people can make in just one day!’

“My volunteer work has not only enriched my CV but has also been personally rewarding. It has provided me with opportunities for personal and professional growth, particularly in the enhancement of my leadership skills. Through this experience, I've had the opportunity to forge connections and make meaningful friendships with a diverse array of individuals."

Anyone can become a Trustee, regardless of their age or background! Michelle’s trustee career began in her 30s, when she decided that she wanted to give back to her community, and bring a fresh young perspective. Here’s her story: "I'm a trustee and the treasurer of Somerset Community Foundation , which means I take ultimate responsibility for the finances of the organisation, overseeing the finance and audit function. I also do some more functional things such as approving bank payments and reviewing budgets and management accounts, as well as some higher-level work around governance, and occasionally sitting on our Hinkley Point C grants panel. "I was inspired to take on a role as a trustee from a desire to be involved in charities that help so many people, to have a younger viewpoint on the board and to learn and inspire others. "One of the things I enjoy most is meeting people from different walks of life and learning from them. Hearing other experiences and viewpoints is invaluable. "Becoming a trustee is often thought of as a way to give back, but it’s so much more than that - it's an opportunity to learn and develop yourself whilst helping others. "Trusteeship has benefited my career immeasurably. It provides insight, develops my communication (especially listening!) skills, and adds experience. "I would definitely encourage anyone to consider becoming a trustee, no matter how old you are. So often I speak to young people who don’t feel that they have as much to add to an organisation as more experienced trustees, but what they add is invaluable - a different perspective and a different thought process. Be proud of that!" Mary Hancock, Operations Director of SCF comments: "Michelle’s deep understanding of all things charity finance makes her ideally placed to serve as Somerset Community Foundation’s treasurer. But it’s actually her ability to help other trustees interpret the numbers, her patience and open-mindedness, and her passion for increasing the diversity of voices around the boardroom table that make her an ideal trustee.” To find out more about becoming a Trustee in Somerset, please click the link below.

I just couldn’t give up on life when there are others to whom I could offer my many years of experience to help and support."

"My personal experiences have instilled a strong desire to ‘pay it forward’ and ensure that others have the same chance for growth and self-improvement."

"My own mental health has greatly improved since I started my volunteering and I no longer need a counselor. I have learnt a great deal not only from the group but the professionals that have come to chat with us. I have made new friends and I feel in my own small way am making a difference.

"Thanks to my volunteering, I am busy, fulfilled and feel part of a community that I really care about."

"On the volunteering day, we got to meet new people and work together as a team towards a great outcome."

"My volunteering gives me a feeling of self-worth and appreciation for life."

They are more than just a mix of metal, plastic and glass!

I find myself looking forward to my shifts because the feeling you get when you have helped make a stranger feel better by just listening to them is indescribable.

"It has given me a lovely group of friends and makes my ‘bad years’ worthwhile."

I enjoy volunteering with Alive because I can utilise my area of interest and expertise to help others." Mary shares her volunteering story.

“I would recommend that others volunteer as you learn a lot about yourself as well as gaining valuable experience.” Read volunteer, Abby's story.

“It is a great buzz working with the team and meeting like-minded friends."

"It was wonderful to be out of the office for the day in the fresh air and surrounded by nature on the Quantock Hills"

Earlier this year, a team of volunteers from Novanta Technologies braved the cold to enjoy a day of tree planting at local charity, The Geranium Trust . The Novanta Technologies team was delighted to spend the day helping fellow volunteers from Able2Achieve , a charity which supports people with learning disabilities to develop their skills and confidence through learning, living and working. The Geranium Trust, a charity which offers support and friendship to people in their community, are currently planting 600 metres of new hedgerow to encourage local wildlife and this provided a wonderful project for the Novanta team to get involved in! Charlotte Fursdon, Operations Administrator at Novanta Technologies, told us about the day: “Our team went along to help plant trees, which involved a lot of digging, planting and lots of work pushing the wheelbarrow about! The team loved being outdoors and helping with such a worthwhile project. The group who organised it were from all backgrounds, and it was such a good chance to all muck in together.  “Aside from helping the community, the volunteering team day gave us such a sense of wellbeing, working together, team building and a good dose of reality. “It was such a wonderful experience, and everyone was welcoming and brilliant from the outset. I have forged strong links with other groups, so we are all able to work together on future projects. “We are very lucky to work for a company that encourages community volunteering and Spark a Change is now our go-to platform for organising future activities." Joe Knights, Able2achieve’s Learning Facilitator said: “With the help of the volunteers, we have been able to plant hundreds of trees hedges, which has helped speed up our timescales, and that’s fantastic. “Our project is aimed at our community, and it is a great morale boost to the project team when we receive interest and help from organisations, like Novanta. “By working alongside other groups of volunteers, we are also able to increase awareness of our work, learn about the work of others and create lasting relationships that will benefit everyone going forward. “We’d like to say a huge thankyou to the team from Novanta for being a fantastic tree planting workforce and helping our community and wildlife!” Terence Palfrey, Founder of the Geranium Trust said: "Volunteer team days are so valuable in helping The Geranium Trust to thrive. Volunteering is good for the charity that you are helping, but better still, it's really good for you and your team. You can make friends, learn new skills and it may lead you on to something that you never dreamed would ever happen."

Lendology is a not for profit organisation working in partnership with local councils to provide affordable loans to homeowners in Somerset. The Lendology team approached us as they were looking for a volunteering activity that would offer a meaningful team building experience and the chance to make a lasting impact in one day. So, we put them in touch with ARK at Egwood , a land-based day service which offers a safe, outdoor place where people of all ages and abilities can relax, engage with others and improve their health and wellbeing. We caught up with Lendology’s Operations Director, Ellie Lister, to find out what they got up to and how the day went. “With the pandemic having hit many social events over the last two years, we wanted our team to have time out from the day-to-day and enjoy connecting with each other in a different format, seeing as we have all spent so long in our homes. “At Lendology, many of us love being outdoors and so we were clear that our volunteer day should be somewhere really special. We were also inspired by the ethos of ARK and were very lucky that their CEO, Nigel, gave us a tour of the site before we set to work. “The day involved lots of coffee and cake, we felt very spoilt! The team at ARK had formulated a clear plan of action – to clear an area of woodland and relay a path with woodchip. The best thing was that we could see the project through in the day, so we left with a real sense of achievement. “We were very fortunate that the sun was shining, and just being in nature as a team, everyone picking out the roles they wanted to play and delivering the project outcome in a day. It was a great way to end the week together and wind down! “We all left feeling relaxed and closer as a team, and it was great to see everyone working together in a new way. “I am not sure any of us knew what to expect as it’s the first time we have completed a volunteer day and none of us had ever been to ARK. I think we were a bit worried about having lots of heavy lifting or starting something that we wouldn’t get to see finished, so as it turned out, the day was perfect! “We are already thinking of when we can get over to ARK again and have asked Nigel to let us know when they have a specific project that we can help with.” Nigel Bell, ARK's CEO and Director of Business Development said: “The volunteering team from Lendology were an amazing asset to ARK for the day. Having a group of energised people supporting with practical tasks means we can undertake the larger jobs on site that have a tendency to keep getting put off due to the other priorities. These groups also enjoy working alongside people that attend ARK, who in return enjoy working alongside them. So it’s a win all round!” To find out more about volunteering with ARK, or hosting a team volunteering activity, click on the link below.

“We contacted Spark Somerset as we were looking for a volunteering opportunity that would help us get outside together as a team and meet our aim of limiting our environmental impact. They suggested tree planting at Carymoor, which was perfect for us and the project."

"I think if you have received help that has been of a benefit to you and established a strong ‘wellness toolkit’, then it’s good to share this with others. So, when Second Step asked me if I would like to become a volunteer, I jumped at the opportunity."

“I recommend that others volunteer as not only is it a great opportunity to be part of something bigger and give back to the community, it also comes with excellent personal rewards."

Read how volunteer, Gill, is making a difference to the lives of local children and parents this festive season.

“I get to meet and chat with some really lovely and interesting people, and I really enjoy seeing volunteers thrive and develop in their role."

"Trusteeship gives me a focus and a sense of achievement and has enabled me to meet loads of fantastic like-minded people.”

“Being part of the team here has allowed me to learn, form deep friendships, make a small difference towards making life a little bit better, and do some collective good!"

Grahame is Chair of Trustees at Spark Somerset and has a career spanning health and social care, education, consulting and financial services. He is a member of the Somerset Integrated Care Board and is passionate about the value of collaboration with the local VCSE. Here, he shares with us why volunteering is so important to him and how it led him to join the Spark Somerset Board. “My volunteering story began in health and social care. Whilst working at Weston General Hospital , I supported the volunteers there and soon realised that, in many areas, the hospital would grind to a halt without their smiling, can do approach . “This highlighted to me the range of voluntary roles in health and social care and so, when the pandemic hit, I volunteered at local vaccination centres for the Red Cross, NHS and Festival Medical Services, and became a Covid Community Champion with Spark Somerset. Through these roles I was able to assure, amuse, listen, inform and share with people who were unsure. “It's great to meet so many people, both volunteers and the public - to share a moment or a story which demonstrates how human we all are. “Subsequently, I have established a Good Neighbours scheme in my local community, working with a small band of volunteers to support people to go shopping, collect prescriptions, attend medical appointments and share a cup of coffee. “ Thinking of others reduces your own woes, helps you focus on the benefits you can give and share with others, and creates opportunities to meet other, like minded people." “Charities across Somerset are being asked to support more residents, often those who have particularly struggled with the impacts of the pandemic. As such, demand for Spark Somerset’s services has increased and the Spark Somerset team have excelled in getting to be at the negotiating table, especially around the health and social care agenda , and being listened to as they make the case for the work of our Somerset charities. “That has resulted in further activities being commissioned by the NHS and Somerset County Council which have been shared directly with the charities we have been able to represent.” Katherine Nolan, CEO of Spark Somerset, comments, “Grahame’s appointment is a perfect fit and will greatly support us and the sector as we work together to make sure the residents of Somerset get the support they need when they need it.” Grahame continues, “I hope my experience and expertise will help Katherine and her team as we amplify the voice of local voluntary community and social enterprise organisations. "I consider it a great privilege to work with the Spark Somerset board and staff team, for whom the local VCSE sector and the population it serves is at the heart of all they do." If Grahame's story has inspired you to get involved in volunteering, click on the link below.

Since retiring, Alison Templeton, who worked in a variety of roles within local authorities, has returned to her first love, nature conservation.

“If you are interested in becoming a Trustee, I would highly recommend it. You can pursue your interests and hobbies and make a real difference to a charity you care about!"

"It’s empowering to know I that can use my skills for the benefit of the school, my son and other children like him.”

Linda Pigott-Vijeh has a background in publicity and marketing and has been a Trustee for various charities and organisations over the past 14 years.

Natalie, a solicitor from Taunton, has been a Trustee with St. Giles Animal Rescue since June 2020.

Gabi was referred to the Open Mental Health Buddy scheme by her local job club. Due to long-term physical and mental health issues, she is unable to take on full-time employment, but has always been a keen volunteer.

"It was hugely beneficial for the team’s wellbeing. There's lot to be said for being outside in fresh air just enjoying nature."

Esmee, a level 3 Animal Studies student at Weston College, started volunteering with Prickles Hedgehog Rescue Centre last year when she was looking for a work experience placement.

Volunteers’ have played a key role in the pandemic response. During an exceptionally difficult year, people from across Somerset have taken the time to volunteer and make a huge difference to their communities.

Now that her team can meet in person again, Sarah wanted to ensure that their first get together in 16 months was meaningful.

Today is Power of Youth Day, an annual celebration of the contributions children and young people make through volunteering and social action. Young volunteer, Ellimae, shares her story.

At the heart of every charity and voluntary organisation is its board of trustees and together, they have one of the most important and exciting roles within a charity. Spark Somerset Trustee, Mel Merrill, shared her story.

Simon, known as ‘Woody Simon’, has been volunteering with ARK at Egwood CIC for about 2 years. Having spent 40 years working behind a desk, he now spends time in the natural environment, and for him, the experience has been profound. Read his motivational story.

Alex regularly volunteers in the natural environment, and for him the experience has been life-changing. Read his inspirational story.

Guest blogger, Megan Cave, shares her volunteering story

A letter from the High Sheriff of Somerset to volunteers supporting the local vaccination programme. Dear volunteer, I would like to introduce myself as the High Sheriff of Somerset. As High Sheriff, I am concerned with the maintenance of law and order and I take a keen interest in the security, safety and welfare of those living in the county. When I heard of the need for volunteers for the Vaccination Programme, I played a very small part by spreading the word through social media. You, on the other hand, are one of a tremendous 1100 people who have signed up to volunteer, helping in 20 centres across the county, including Primary Care Hubs, GP surgeries, Taunton Race Course and the Bath & West Showground. This work is urgent, integral and essential to the physical and mental welfare of everyone in Somerset. To be successful, this Programme means getting the vaccine into everyone’s arms as quickly and efficiently as possible. This will only be achieved by a huge and unprecedented mobilisation of concerted effort. The fact that you have volunteered in such numbers and with such enthusiasm is why it will work. Somerset has been so successful already. On 11 February, the Health Service Journal published the county results, and with 93.4% of over 70s and 96.3% of over 80s receiving their first jab, Somerset topped the list! This is fantastic. This achievement is a huge credit to all the Volunteers and to Somerset County Council and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust. I want to recognise you and thank you wholeheartedly for all the work you are doing. You know the enormity of the task ahead. We are not talking about a two-week race here. This is going to be a 9-month marathon, at a sprint. You are giving your time, with patience, tolerance and good humour. I want to thank you for stepping up to the challenge to serve the people of Somerset in this magnificent way. With my very best wishes, Mary Clare Rodwell High Sheriff of Somerset www.highsheriffsomerset.org.uk

Spark Somerset have produced a special video to say a big 'thank you' to volunteers across Somerset. Spark Somerset have been working to support the volunteering response to the pandemic over past few months, and have been inspired by the huge number of people who have stepped up to support their communities over the past few months. More than 1,300 Somerset residents have registered on Corona Helpers , our partner website that matches people with voluntary activity in their area, with many more volunteering informally to help friends, family and neighbours. With help from members of the local community, and volunteers like you, Spark Somerset made this special video which gives a snapshot of some of the amazing work that has taken place. Want to get involved? Visit our Discover page.

You’re donating your valuable time, you want to get the most out of it, so it’s important that you enjoy and benefit from your volunteering. To make sure that your volunteer position is a good fit: What causes do you care about? You will get the most out of volunteering if you're doing something towards a cause you care about and know that you're having an impact. Think about what interests or excites you. This could be something you enjoyed doing before, or something completely new. Think about what time or skills you can give. With so many opportunities to choose from, it's a great idea to narrow down the choices by deciding what you're willing to give. Get researching! Ask questions. You want to make sure that the experience is right for your goals, your skills, and the time you want to spend. Sample questions for your volunteer coordinator might address your time commitment, if there’s any training involved, who you will be working with, and what to do if you have questions during your experience. Make sure you know what’s expected. You should be comfortable with the organisation and understand the time and travel commitment. Consider starting small so that you don’t over commit yourself at first. Give yourself some flexibility to change your focus if needed. Don’t be afraid to make a change. Don’t force yourself into a bad fit or feel compelled to stick with a volunteer role you dislike. Talk to the organisation about changing your focus or look for a different organisation that’s a better fit. Enjoy yourself . The best volunteer experiences benefit both the volunteer and the organisation. If you’re not enjoying yourself, ask yourself why. Is it the tasks you’re performing? The people you’re working with? Or are you uncomfortable simply because the situation is new and unfamiliar? Pinpointing what’s bothering you can help you decide what to do next.

Why volunteer from home? The benefits of volunteering from home are immense, especially at this challenging time. It is a way of engaging with something you care about, provides vital help, supports communities and is something you can build into the structure of your day. It has great mental health benefits too as it can reduce stress, keep your mind focused on something that interests you and provide a sense of purpose. Providing telephone and online support from home We are helping established organisations to find volunteers, including: The Space , a youth charity in Cheddar, is seeking qualified counsellors who can offer a telephone or online service to young people aged between 13 and 8 years by phone or email. Mind in Somerset is seeking volunteers to help with their Mindline mental health support line, full training and support is given. Marie Curie is looking for volunteers to provide emotional and bereavement support by telephone to families and carers of people at the end of their lives. Full training is provided. CAB South Somerset is offering to train up telephone advisers at the end of April to volunteer with them once restrictions are lifted. Getting crafty! Supporting NHS staff with kit during coronavirus. If you know your way round a sewing machine, then why not help a group by sewing scrubs, hats and laundry bags to be dispatched to local hospitals. Materials such as clean duvets and pillowcases are being used to make these garments for Somerset hospitals and some organisations can arrange for suitable materials to be delivered to you. Taunton Scrubbers are making and distributing scrubs, hats and headbands to NHS and care staff. You can join their Facebook group or email [email protected] for further details. For the Love of Scrubs is a nationwide Facebook campaign supporting people to make kit for NHS staff. They have patterns available online and also a list of hospitals taking these donations. You can join their Facebook group . Knitting or crafting for charities Knitting or making specific items for a charity or for fundraising is a great way to support charities from home, and there is something to suit every skill level. Reminiscence Learning is a dementia support charity in Wellington and their Archie the Scarecrow Project is an intergenerational dementia awareness project that links primary schools and care homes together. If you would like to knit an Archie for the project, the pattern can be found here . Email [email protected] or call 01823 668676 for further information. UK Hand Knitting Association has a collection of knitting patterns and a list of charities that rely on knitters to help them raise funds and awareness of issues. Items include knitting or crocheting squares, blankets for premature babies and elephants, hats and scarves for homeless people, and toys for fundraising. Visit https://www.ukhandknitting.com/knitting-for-charity People-powered research The Zooniverse is the world’s largest platform for people-powered research, with 100 active projects and 2 million people around the world participating. Every Zooniverse project is led by a different research team, spanning a wide range of subjects that include: identifying planets around distant stars ( planethunters.org ) studying the impact of climate change on animals ( s napshotsafari.org ) and plants ( f loatingforests.org ) tracking resistance to antibiotics (Bash the Bug), transcribing handwritten documents ( a ntislaverymanuscripts.org ) and much more! The collective efforts of Zooniverse projects have resulted in over 200 research publications to date. No experience necessary, and there are opportunities for both adults and children. Register your interest at Z ooniverse Virtual Volunteering Instant Wild brings you live images from cameras around the world. Tag the animals to help conservation research. You can get involved HERE . Team up with projects from across the world and contribute to peace and development as a United Nations Virtual Volunteer. Find out how you can team up with an organisations to address sustainable development challenges, anywhere in the world, from any device. You can get involved HERE . Become a remote F Cancer volunteer for charities fighting cancer, and supporting those effected by the big C. Help is needed with a variety of tasks, from website design to social media support. You can get involved HERE . The Princes Trust is a community of online volunteers who use a flexible online platform to mentor young people. You'll support a young person who is looking for work or to start their own business. You can get involved HERE . Here are some more great suggestions, courtesy of Saga Magazine: Mentor children overseas with Granny Cloud. Men and women from across the globe read stories, sing songs and chat with children in India, Colombia, Mexico and Greenland using Skype. Birdwatching with a purpose with eBird. Become part of a worldwide network of birdwatchers. Your sightings contribute to hundreds of conservation decisions and academic papers and help inform global bird research. Map a disaster zone with Missing Maps. Help make maps to inform the relief efforts of organisations such as the Red Cross. Volunteers use satellite images and a drawing tool to mark up buildings, rivers and roads in remote areas that may not have been marked before. Lend someone your vision with the Be My Eyes app. Virtual volunteers can help a blind or low-vision person to go about their daily tasks. Through a live video call, you can help by checking expiry dates, read instructions, and navigate new surroundings. Find out more about these opportunities HERE . Share and develop your professional skills Many charities would welcome support with raising awareness of issues via social media, fundraising, or writing newsletters. You could use your professional skills for a great cause by becoming a trustee or getting involved in the Somerset Skills Bank . We hope this has inspired you to get in touch and see how you can help a charity from the comfort of your own home.

If you ask a random selection of people why they volunteer, they will give a huge variety of reasons why they, in particular, volunteered. Each of us has our own motivation for getting involved. There are some common themes though, and they all point to the same thing. Human beings need purpose . It's one of our fundamental intrinsic motivations! Volunteers connect themselves to a cause. They want to have an impact on their community and the world around them. They want to feel like they are making difference. So, when we are looking for volunteers, we should talk to them about why we do what we do. What difference our organisation makes. How they can be part of change for the better. Of course, people will still want to volunteer for other good reasons: learning new skills and knowledge give something back to their community making friends having fun increase job opportunities be part of a community doing something challenging/new Let's remember to tell people all the brilliant and wonderful things that volunteering can do!

Volunteering has changed dramatically over recent years, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. From serving in a charity shop, signing up for school functions, to building houses, usually volunteering meant going somewhere to do something. However, today’s volunteers now often expect that volunteering is more flexible, including doing tasks remotely, donating their time and skills from home. Instead of being present to volunteer in the “real world,” many people have found their place in the world of virtual volunteering. Why Virtual Volunteering? Virtual volunteering allows people to commit their time and services away from the physical site of an organisation, project, or campaign. Virtual volunteers work over the internet via computer, tablet, or phone to provide their skilled services to support a cause that is important to them. Physical volunteers will always be in demand, but we’ve seen a huge shift towards people’s interest in virtual volunteering. People and organisations have become much more comfortable working remotely. The internet allows us to do so much more in much less time, and our skills are no longer limited to our geographical location. More skill sets have stemmed from society's use of technology, as well. Because of that, volunteering is no longer limited to just physical labour or attendance. For the volunteer, virtual volunteering can mean: More opportunities to volunteer for multiple causes and organisations More time to volunteer Flexibility in scheduling, location, and level of involvement A unique outlet for skills or passions that aren’t met by physical volunteering More positions for disabled or very remote volunteers Fulfilling education or career volunteer milestones For an organisation, or cause, virtual volunteering often provides: More volunteer positions that cover more tasks and skills Increased access to more qualified volunteers More ways to save money on operating costs An easier way to access more data for your organisation Professional-level communications, branding, and outreach Opportunities to grow and broaden your impact How Can We Make It Work? Like any volunteering initiative, you need to think about it before leaping in. In lots of ways, there is no real difference between traditional volunteering and virtual volunteering: you still need the same infrastructure that you create for regular volunteers. You need training, a volunteer coordinator, recruitment strategies, and regular communication and engagement with your volunteers. Look for those tasks in your organisation that can be done online. There are likely to be many of your normal tasks that can be converted to online work. Also think creatively, and see if there are other ways to use volunteers from home. Check out what other organisations are doing and what the non-profits in your area might be doing to get ideas. Make sure you have software for remote work. Not all virtual opportunities need sophisticated equipment. For instance, you might ask a volunteer to track something, such as bird sightings, or do searches online for resources. They can use free, simple and readily available tools. Take your volunteer applications online and your interviews with potential volunteers might be done with applications such as Zoom or Skype. Be clear with people about what equipment and services they need to do virtual volunteering. Most projects at a minimum require a computer, tablet such as an iPad, or smartphone as well as a secure and robust internet connection. Think about how their volunteering hours and work can be recorded – how can they let you know when a task is complete. How will you communicate with your virtual volunteers? Sometimes, remote volunteer communication can be hard. How can they contact people when they need help? Here are some examples of remote or virtual volunteering: Website design or support Data entry Email marketing or management Fundraising phone calls and outreach Social media promotion and management Copywriting, blogging, or editing Graphic design, photography Marketing or branding assistance Video creation Virtual assistance, staff support Tutoring or mentoring Of course, this is just a small sample of all the possible virtual volunteering tasks a person could provide. Each organisation has a different approach, so there will be unique ways for volunteers to support each charity remotely.

Getting new volunteers on board is an exciting, yet challenging, task. To turn clicks into volunteers you will have to start off with an appealing opportunity. Here are three powerful tips that will help you stand out! 1) Come Up with a Captivating Title First impressions are everything. Use your title to describe, in a few words, what the volunteer will be doing. Be sure to keep it around 6 words or 40 characters, as only a portion will be shown in the opportunity overview. Do ✅ Clearly state the position or activity the volunteer will be engaging in (e.g. 'Event coordinator at homeless shelter' or 'Help develop a marketing strategy'). ✅ Try to connect people to your cause (e.g. Donate blood and save lives!) Don't ❌ Use vague or one-worded titles (e.g. ‘volunteer', ‘coordinator’ or ‘employee’) ❌ Include dates in the title - if the activity takes place on a holiday add this in brackets ❌Specify the organisation's name - it will already be shown under your title 2) Pick an Attractive Cover Photo Before digging up your old photo archives or venturing into the world of stock images, think about the cause you stand for and the subject of the event. The right images do an excellent job at conveying a certain ‘vibe’ that sparks viewers’ interest. If you cannot find any quality images of previous events, make sure to visit these stock image websites: unsplash.com , pikwizard.com or pexels.com. Do ✅ Use images that illustrate what your cause or activity is about ✅ Show smiling people and team photos! Don’t ❌ Use logos or text as your cover photo ❌ Settle for low quality or irrelevant photos - quality images portraying a specific activity may be hard to find so you may choose to communicate the cause you stand for instead ❌ Use the same image for every event or vacancy 3) Write a Comprehensive Description Congratulations, you have now grabbed a potential volunteer’s interest! All that is left to do is specify what you’ll be expecting from them and the impact they will make. The description should include both an overview of the role or deed and qualities you look for in a volunteer. Try to keep it between 5-8 lines. We have developed an easy structure for you to follow: 1. The details Explain in more detail what the role or activity of the event / vacancy entails. Use examples! (Looking for ... to do A…) (Activities include B…) 2. Get them enthusiastic! How the volunteers will be making a difference or how they can benefit from doing this activity. (Benefits consist of C,D, and E…, You are contributing to a day they will never forget... ) 3. Describe your ideal volunteer It's ok to be specific about what you seek in a volunteer, just make sure you clarify which things are required and which are 'nice to have'. (You will have to be available… or It would be great if you have some experience with...). Don’t ❌ Go into too much detail about the organisation - this is what your ‘about' page is for. ❌ Use one sentence