Have you ever thought of volunteering? Here at Simon on the streets, our volunteers mean a great deal to us, and it’s hard to put into words the difference that they make. As a non-profit organisation, they really do go above and beyond to support our charity. We couldn’t be more grateful.

Volunteering is the perfect way to support a worthy cause, whilst at the same time benefiting from the skills, experience and other positive things it can bring to your life. If you’re interested, Simon on the Streets is the perfect place to get started. We’re always happy to talk to new people who want to get involved, just get in touch. 

If it’s something that you’re thinking about, here are five reasons why you should make those thoughts a reality. 

1. Expand your skill set

Volunteering is the perfect opportunity to learn brand new skills as well as build on the ones you already have. Working as part of a team, organisation skills and problem solving - these are all things that you’ll benefit from when you volunteer. Add to that the things you’ll learn about the organisation and sector you volunteer for, and it’s not hard to see why volunteering is such a great thing to do for both your personal and professional growth. 

Volunteering is great for employers to see. Whether you’re currently in a job or looking for your next challenge, it’s important for you to show that you can think outside the box and that you care about social issues and making a difference. 

2. Support your mental wellbeing

There’s no doubt about it, helping other people just feels good, with statistics showing that volunteering is associated with enhanced wellbeing, happiness and life satisfaction.

In the post-pandemic landscape particularly, so many more of us are working from home, resulting in a lot less interaction with our colleagues on a day-to-day basis. Volunteering can be a great way to meet new people and do something that you care about, both of which can go a long way to supporting your mental wellbeing. 

3. Make a difference

One of the biggest motivators behind volunteering is to help make a difference to a charity or a cause that you care about.

We understand that with busy lives, jobs and families, free time can be in short supply. That’s why we never tire of emphasising just how much of a difference volunteering makes to our charity, not just financially, but practically too. 

Read Tom’s story, to learn more about what it’s like to volunteer for Simon on the Streets.

4. Build new relationships

Something that our volunteers love about working with Simon on the Streets is the life-long friendships and connections that they form.

We work alongside so many people, from all different industries and backgrounds, and there’s always someone new to meet. Ultimately, spending time with others who share your passion and your values can add an extra level of meaning to the work and volunteering you do too. 

The team here has a fantastic relationship with the volunteers we have, and the support we have for one another is second to none.

5. Raising awareness

At the most basic level, an understanding that homelessness is more than just sleeping rough can allow our volunteers to educate others and challenge misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding those facing homelessness.

The more people we educate, the more awareness and funds that we raise, the better chance we have at making ongoing, sustained change.

Wouldn’t it be great to be a part of such big social change?

At Simon on the Streets, something we always advocate for is teamwork and support. The sense of community that we’ve built amongst our team, and our supporters, is something we’re incredibly proud of and are always continuing to grow.

If you’re looking to join a team that values community, support and wellbeing, you’re in the right place.

We’re always looking for dedicated volunteers. All you need to do is get in touch.