Volunteering Websites

Okay since my post on becoming a volunteer is still in a work in progress, I thought I'd post some really useful links to get people started :)
Firstly http://www.vinspired.com/
Vinspired is a great organisation which helps 16 - 25 year olds find volunteer placements. They have a database full of volunteering opportunities, and they have branches in most major cities with people who know the area well and want to help.
They can normally be found in or around connexions offices. But they also visit schools and talk about what they do, so if your school has a careers officer or something like it they probably have information on Vinspired.
Also if you register you can receive certificates and awards for the number of hours you do, which are recognised by employers etc.
So if your going to volunteer anyways you might as well get a certificate saying you've done it! :D
Next there's http://www.do-it.org.uk/ Do-It, which is sort of like a searching engine of volunteer placements. You type in where you are and what you want to do, and the website provides options! :D
It also has tips on how to apply online for placements, and has information on volunteering centres round the country, worth a look!

Another is http://www.timebank.org.uk/ Time Bank is essentially that, a bank filled with things for people to do in their spare time`:)
It helps people find places to volunteer at, discover different ways to volunteer, and also support people once they start volunteering. Basically it is providing you with a start to finish service, from finding your placement and then making sure your okay when you actually do it! They also have a news letter and a blog

Then there's the good old government website http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/Gettinginvolvedinyourcommunity/Volunteering/DG_10029484?CID=emc&TYPE=sponsoredsearch&CRE=Volunteer
This is packed with information on your rights, age restrictions, employers rights, how to apply, technical things like volunteering on benefits and then links to specific types of volunteering, such as with animals. This is really good one cause it means you'll know what your entitled to as a volunteer.`

These are just a few of the main sites, which I personally think are worth a look. There are hundreds out there, and maybe ones more specific to you! :) Just have a nosey and don't be afraid to Google search ;)

Anyways my next post should be more hospital placements etc!
And if it goes how I want it to, a biggun :D
Have a great weekend and I'll post soon!