Student Volunteering Week is a national celebration, led by the Student Volunteering Network, taking place across universities, colleges, and schools. This special week highlights the incredible impact student volunteers make and encourages more young people to get involved.
Why Get Involved in Student Volunteering?
Volunteering as a student is more than just giving back—it’s about personal growth, professional development, and making meaningful connections. Here’s how volunteering can benefit you:
- Boosts Wellbeing – Volunteering can improve your mental health and happiness. In fact, NCVO’s 2019 Time Well Spent survey found that over three-quarters of volunteers reported improved wellbeing through their involvement.
- Enhances Employability – Employers value practical experience. Volunteering is a fantastic way to build your CV, develop key skills, and gain insight into different industries.
- Builds Connections – It’s an opportunity to meet like-minded people, expand your social circle, and form lasting friendships.
- Provides Career Insights – If you’re unsure about your career path, volunteering allows you to explore different roles and sectors before committing.
- Develops Confidence & Skills – From communication to leadership, volunteering helps you grow personally and professionally.
- Creates a Sense of Purpose – Knowing your efforts are making a difference can be incredibly fulfilling.
Volunteering Opportunities with Forward Carers
We are always looking for passionate volunteers to help us support unpaid Carers. Whether you have a few hours to spare or want to get involved regularly, we have roles to suit you:
- Volunteer Community Engagement Assistants – Help us raise awareness about unpaid Carers and the support available to them. This role is ideal for those who want to build confidence, meet new people, and develop communication skills.
- Volunteer Health Liaison Support – Work alongside the Forward Carers team to improve communication between health services and unpaid Carers.
- Carers Voice Programme – Get involved in shaping support for Carers by completing surveys, joining focus groups, or sharing your own story through blogs, videos or podcasts.
Volunteering with Kissing it Better (KiB)
One of our partners, Kissing it Better (KiB), connects young volunteers with older people to help reduce loneliness. University students who have volunteered with KiB say the experience has helped them manage anxiety and feel more connected, particularly during their first year.
If you enjoy singing, creating art, giving relaxing hand massages, or simply sharing stories to brighten someone’s day, volunteering with KiB might be perfect for you. To find out more, contact Kristy at kristy@kibmail.co.uk.
Recognition for Your Contribution
We truly value our volunteers! After six months of volunteering with Forward Carers, you will receive:
✔ A reference to support your future applications
✔ A certificate of appreciation
✔ LinkedIn recommendations to boost your profile
Ready to Make a Difference?
Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back while gaining invaluable experience. If you’d like to get involved with Forward Carers, start your application today and be part of something meaningful!
