Make sure you have sufficient time available to see out your commitment.

It isn’t fair to volunteer your services and then fail to carry this through. Look for a role in a Charity which is involved in an area of activity which interests you.

Consider carefully what you have to offer. How can your skills be put to best use? For example, if you are good with people, or have an ability to teach, look for a role which will allow you to use these skills. Equally, if you are practical or the outdoor type, seek out a position with a Charity that can use these attributes.

Look for roles that are complementary to your other goals in life. For example, if you want to keep fit, take on a physical role instead of something which is deskbound.

Maybe it’s time for a change and you want to do something completely different; for example moving from an office bound career to taking on an outdoor Charity role. Are you fit enough to do this?

Be prepared to “sell” yourself to the Charity of your choice. Do your homework if you are invited to an interview, and if you feel in any way uncomfortable with the role on offer or the background of the Charity, withdraw politely.

According to Make A Difference Day Survey, ICM Research 2004:
nearly half of all volunteers (47%) say volunteering has improved their physical health and fitness;
25% of people who volunteer more than five times a year say volunteering has helped them lose weight (20% overall);
Half of people (48%) who have volunteered for more than two years say volunteering makes them less depressed. 71% of volunteers who offer their professional skills and experience say volunteering helps combat depression; 62% of over 65's say volunteering reduces stress;