The Benefits of Volunteering in London

When you first move to London, you might not consider volunteering as the primary form of employment available to you, but giving back to your community can bring many rewards. From accessing free accommodation to bringing life to your passions, volunteering is one of the most rewarding choices you can make when you move to the big city.

Join LHA London as we dive into the many benefits of becoming a volunteer in London.

1. Improves interpersonal and social connections

Volunteering in London after relocating can help you settle into the community and meet like-minded people who share your interests and values. Meeting new people who support a similar cause can spur interpersonal relationships that you might not have found in other forms of employment, or even on campus.

When studying in London, it can be difficult figuring out how to mingle with students on different courses than your own but volunteering on campus, at your accommodation or even for a charity that you believe in can bring people together.

The opportunities for volunteering are rife in London so you’ll be able to find the one that’s right for you, with the people who are right for you, in no time.

2. Develops transferable skills

As with any job, volunteering is a fantastic way of gaining transferable skills and valuable insights into the world of work in a low pressure environment.

You’ll develop invaluable experience with:

• Time management
• Teamwork
• Problem solving
• Delegation
• Customer/client communications
• Leadership

This experience will travel with you to your next job.

3. Introduces you to the wider London community

When studying in a specific London zone, it can be tempting and sometimes easy to regulate yourself to that area. It feels familiar and comfortable, and it’s close to your home and where you study. But getting out of your zone introduces you to the wider London community.

London is one of the most densely multicultural hubs in the country, with a vast array of communities, cultures and people that you might not acquaint yourself with if you stay within your area.

One of the best ways to settle in a new city is to find a community that resonates with you, and volunteering is a fantastic way to do just that.

4. Support what you care about

When you take ownership of something you care about, you will find a higher sense of purpose and drive. It can allow you to feel part of something wider than your course and bigger than yourself as well as aid personal and professional growth.

This is one of the best reasons to volunteer.

5. Great for adding to CV

As the culture of job applications continues to change and grow, it is becoming increasingly obvious that employers want to see hobbies and volunteering on your CV.

Surprisingly, this has nothing to do with real world work experience.

Why?

Because employers are growing more invested in people who show passion and commitment to personal development. This can also spark a conversation in your interview and give you an opportunity to show that your personality aligns with company values.

Volunteering at LHA London

At LHA London, we thrive on the work of volunteers just like you. All of our volunteers make a positive impact on the young people staying with us, from serving hot, delicious meals to cleaning and managing admin, we have a position suitable for your needs.

You could gain valuable experience and improve your English whilst giving back to the charitable work we do; helping young people find suitable accommodation in London and opening doors for better futures.

When you volunteer with LHA, you could unlock free accommodation with our other volunteers, allowing you to make friends along the way.

Volunteer with LHA London today.

For more information about how our charity can help you get set up in the big city, take a look at our available accommodation and don’t forget to check out our offer to discover what we can offer you.