Volunteer for a community project

Help to improve your local area and the lives of local people by volunteering your time to work on community-based projects.

Your community

Make a real difference in your local area by donating just a few hours each week. From helping to run a community-based recycling scheme through to providing support over local health issues, there are many ways to help.

Many local projects also provide 'commitment free' options for people with limited time. For example, if you have a free day one weekend, you can pop along to a footpath clearance project and spend a few hours helping out. No prior skills or training are required and everyone 'mucks in' with the tasks.

There is a network of volunteer centres across Northern Ireland that can provide information on volunteering opportunities in your area, for example, local conservation projects.

You can also contact your local council for information about projects supported in your area.

Seeing the difference

Many community volunteers pick local projects so they can actually see the difference their time makes. Physical changes, such as improving parks and open spaces will make the environment a better place to live. Also, social changes can be seen from assisting those who are socially deprived. This may help to build confidence and skills.

Time banking

Time Banking is a new way for people to come together to help others and help themselves at the same time. Participants 'deposit' their time in the bank by giving practical help and support to others and are able to 'withdraw' their time when they need something done themselves.