Whatever your interests and skills are, and however little time you have available, there are always plenty of volunteering opportunities in Essex that you could get involved with. And as serial volunteer Sharon Cattermole explains, there are numerous benefits to voluntary work
Below are just a few current options on the Volunteering for Essex website tthat might be of interest:
Are you passionate about books?
The Essex Home Library Service is looking for volunteers to take the library out to customers in their own homes. This provides these often very isolated people not just with books, but a link to their local community and some compassionship. For more information email: volunteering.libraries@essex.gov.uk
Do you enjoy meeting older people?
The Winter Warmth project helps the elderly and vulnerable local residents stay warm and well throughout the winter. The project is operated by independent charity Community 360, based in Colchester and Braintree. If you like meeting people and are happy to share information and advice on health, wellbeing and independence, please register your interest here
Enjoy painting, decorating and basic carpentry?
An unusual volunteering opportunity: volunteers help restore and maintain the only known Roman Circus House in the UK. Register your interest here.
Love horses and ponies?
REACH is urgently seeking a volunteer pony side walker. Equine experience is preferred but not essential as training can be given. You would be assisting disabled children at a centre in Galleywood, near Chelmsford, with horseback physiotherapy sessions in an indoor arena and helping keep the child in their seat. Find out more and register your interest here.
Women cyclists needed
If you are interested in cycling and can spare a little bit of time on Tuesday and/or Saturday mornings, you might like to consider becoming a Ride Leader for the WoMEn TIME project. Full training is provided. Register your interest here.