Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new people, make a difference in the community, and boost your confidence. All of these positive outcomes can help support your overall wellbeing, helping you and those around you! The Volunteering team is on hand with a great range of roles, so whatever your interests you can get involved and feel good. 

Here’s how our volunteering opportunities can support the NHS 5 ways to wellbeing.

1. Connect with other people. Volunteering is one of the best ways to meet new people! 

You could end up chatting with people in the community, schools or other students. Our team based opportunities such as community projects are a fab way to meet people in different years and courses who you wouldn’t normally come across. 

Olivia, community project volunteer 2021 says – ’ Volunteering opens so many doors to meet new, like-minded people’

2. Be physically active. Take a break from scrolling and get out and about, which has been shown to improve physical and mental wellbeing. Whether you’re popping out on a stroll to your volunteering role in and around York, or even signing up for something nature based outdoors, there are plenty of ways to get some headspace and get moving. 

‘It has had a positive impact on our physical and mental health by participating in outdoor activities and allowed us to meet and interact with a range of new people.’ project volunteer 2021

3. Learn new skills. Our volunteering opportunities span a huge range, from schools to sustainability, and these all come with learning something new. Maybe you’ll learn how to create and edit podcasts, support a class, or work well in a team to achieve something you’re proud of.

Florence, volunteer 2021 says  ‘I found that my presentation skills developed throughout my volunteering project which I’ve found has helped me be more confident in other aspects of my life.’

4.Give to others. Volunteering is a way of giving your time and skills to make a real difference to people in the community. This can give you a sense of reward and purpose, and give you the opportunity to acknowledge the amazing impact you can have. 

Molly, YSIS volunteer 2021 says ‘I enjoyed having the chance to share my passion and make a real difference.’ 

5. Take notice. Life can feel busy, especially at University, so taking time out to focus on something you enjoy can be a useful tool. Pay attention to the present moment and pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, and the world around you whilst volunteering. 

You can check out all of our volunteering opportunities on Handshake

Seize the year- volunteer!