Volunteering is a great way to make new friends and contacts, impress graduate employers who are increasingly looking for volunteering experience, develop useful skills and build your CV. Recent research said nine out of ten volunteers felt that volunteering had boosted their job prospects and 96% said it had helped to develop their skills. If you’re still not convinced, research has also shown volunteers are happier and less stressed than those who don’t volunteer. Here are our three easy steps to getting stuck in and making sure that you stand out from the crowd.

Each week you will see posters and our website advertising a new volunteering opportunity. So far these have included opportunities as varied as dance, web design, coaching and counselling. Whatever your degree or interests we hope there will be something for everyone. You can find information on our current vacancy here and also check previous ones.

Find contact information for other organisations that specialise in providing volunteer work. This is particularly good for those of you who want something specific, for example gaining experience working with children before applying for a PGCE.

For advice, help with applications and CVs or just a general chat come to the Careers Service in J3 or book a time to see us. Just use our contact details.

The organisations listed in these pages are not necessarily endorsed or approved by St Mary’s Careers Service. You should research organisations carefully before making any commitments. Please speak to us if you are unsure.