Young people interested in volunteering, including those under 18, should contact individual volunteer agencies directly, rather than local Youth Offending Teams. Below are some suggested agencies:
V
V was set up following the Russell Commission’s report, which recommended improvements in the diversity, quality and quantity of youth volunteering opportunities in the UK. Read the report [opens in a new window].
V is aiming to get at least 1 million more 16–25 year olds involved in volunteering and community action. This might include getting involved with community radio, improving the environment or running sports clubs, for example.
For more information, including features, forums and opportunities near you, see www.vinspired.com [opens in a new window].
Millennium Volunteers
Millennium Volunteers
offers a wide range of exciting volunteering opportunities for 16-24 year olds, based on their interests.
It is a government initiative to help young adults get involved in helping their communities, across England, which can lead to a nationally recognised, accredited award.
For more information or to apply, see the Community Service Volunteers website [opens in a new window].
Youth Action Network
Youth Action Network is a national membership organisation that provides young people with the opportunity to volunteer and develop their own solutions to their community’s needs. They support young people in developing and delivering local volunteering projects, as well as running their own national projects.
Visit the Youth Action Network website [opens in a new window] for more information and to join.
Help Yourselves
Help Yourselves is a scheme set up by Save the Children and British Gas that aims to get young people involved in dynamic and lasting community projects. They give away awards of up to £3,000 for projects and activities that help excluded and isolated children and young people.
Visit the Help Yourselves website [opens in a new window] for project ideas, and advice on planning and making them happen.