Devon has a strong tradition of volunteering and there are plenty of opportunities for refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants to get involved; and plenty of benefits too.
Why volunteer? What are the benefits?
- Meet new people, make new friends.
- Utilise your skills and experience and learn new skills
- Give something back to your local community.
- Improve your English
- Gain work experience, improve your CV.
- Free training
- Most charities will cover volunteers’ travel expenses, and some provide a free lunch
How to volunteer?
Read on to find out about some local opportunities and how to get involved. We have included website links and contact details but if you need advice on which opportunity might be best for you, or help in applying for a voluntary position, just get in touch with us at ESOL@devon.gov.uk The opportunities listed below are just a small selection of what’s out there – contact us if you want help finding a volunteering role that suits you.
Volunteer in your local library
Libraries Unlimited has more than 50 libraries across Devon and there are lots of different volunteering roles available. Get involved and support your local library and community.
“I think I definitely improved my confidence and gained new friends along the way. I also think I improved my communication skills. This volunteering role has made me grow as a person” ZuZanna, A volunteer in Torrington library
Website: https://librariesunlimited.arena.axiell.com/welcome#/
Contact: Shona Keen shona.keen@librariesunlimited.org.uk
Volunteer in a charity shop
Volunteering in a charity shop is a great way to meet lots of people and to practise and improve your English. One organisation with a network of charity shops across the county is Oxfam. Click here to find out more about volunteering opportunities and apply
Contact: Renee Marchant rmarchant1@oxfam.org.uk or call 07584 521322
Volunteer for the environment
Devon is lucky enough to have two national parks, Dartmoor and Exmoor, as well as many wildlife trusts and areas of outstanding beauty. If you enjoy being outside and helping to conserve our beautiful environment, there are plenty of volunteering opportunities.
The Devon Wildlife Trust is always looking for volunteers to support environmental initiatives.To see current opportunities and how to apply, visit their Volunteering Opportunities page
Check out our other business and employability support
- Job fairs in Devon
- Translating your qualifications
- CVs, personal profiles, covering letters, and job interviews
- Industry specific support
- Professional training courses
- Volunteering opportunities
- Starting your own business – advice and guidance
- Support for Ukrainians living in the UK