Volunteering

Volunteering is a really good way to learn valuable skills that can help you into work and it’s a great way to boost your confidence. Through volunteering you can:

• try out new types of work
• get experience that looks good on your CV
• learn new skills that could lead to a new job
• get training and qualifications - some volunteer organisations offer this
• network - make contacts that could lead to offers of paid work
• get references to use in job applications

Volunteering experience impresses employers. It shows you're a positive, motivated person and you use your time constructively.

If you've been out of the workplace for a while, through volunteering you can also learn valuable transferable skills like team-working, communication skills and time management.

Some volunteering opportunities only require a couple of hours a month of commitment but others may require more.

Usually, the employer will reimburse your out-of-pocket expenses such as travel, food and equipment. This means you should still be able to carry on looking for a job. 

You can also get more info on volunteering as a person with disabilities on the Do-it! website.