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Volunteering: Find out what you can do!

Did you know that you can gain valuable work experience whilst meeting new people and having fun? Leeds Beckett Students’ Union supports students into volunteering and there are loads of things to choose from. Take a look at the following for an idea of what we have on offer.

Volunteering
Student volunteers and guide dogs gathered outside of the Hyde Park Picture House Cinema

Did you know that you can gain valuable work experience whilst meeting new people and having fun?

Leeds Beckett Students’ Union supports students into volunteering and there are loads of things to choose from. Take a look at the following for an idea of what we have on offer.
 

Charity Volunteering

When you think of volunteering, you may be thinking of Charity Volunteering. These are opportunities which need a regular, long-term commitment and allow you to work closely with a local charity.

For example, you could make a direct impact to a Charity in Leeds such as Family Action that works to transform lives by providing practical, emotional, and financial support to those who are experiencing poverty, disadvantage, and social isolation across the country. 

You can volunteer on any one of hundreds of opportunities which provide you with excellent transferable skills as well as an insight into issues that affect those living in Leeds and an opportunity to improve the lives of people across the city.

One-off and Events

Get involved in some of the biggest events in Leeds with our One-off and Event Volunteering.

From colour runs to zombie mazes, you can help out on huge cultural events, often gaining free admittance and getting an insight into how large-scale events are run.

Recently, we went with 30 students to volunteer at Thought Bubble, the UK’s largest comic book convention, which took over Leeds in September. Keep an eye out for events as you never know what might pop up!
 

Micro-Volunteering

Want to get involved but stuck for time? Micro-Volunteering involves quick, easy activities with low commitment that still support a good cause.

At our craft group Made by Beckett, students get together to make craft items which are then donated to charity. This term we have made “Twiddle Muffs”, which are knitted hand muffs for dementia patients who often like something to keep their restless hands occupied.

We also take Micro-Volunteering out on campus, so if you see us come say hello!
 

Student-Led Projects

If you have an idea, or can’t seem to find the right opportunity, Student-Led Projects are for you.

We support students in setting up their own volunteering projects, offering help on things such as marketing, volunteer recruitment and finance. One project run by students is EcoSoup, a not-for-profit social enterprise who run a café on Campus that tackles food waste.

Proceeds then help support initiatives for the homeless to access training and employment. If you don’t have a vision of your own not to worry, you can get involved in an existing project.
 

If you are interested in any of the above or want to find out more about volunteering, you can email the Volunteering Team at lbsu-volunteering@leedsbeckettsu.co.uk.

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